As the year comes to an end, it’s time to look back and celebrate women’s jiu-jitsu belt promotions. Lots of girls and women earned stripes on their white belts, fewer made it to blue and purple belt level. Even fewer made it to brown belt and just a handful of dedicated ones achieved the ultimate goal of becoming a black belt. And then there are the super women who earned stripes on their black belts. You are all amazing!

Only the ones who train know how much hard work goes into earning a stripe or a new belt. The countless hours of drilling, and sweating, being frustrated and getting smashed, injuries, and the random submissions transform into a huge smile on the day of the promotions. We all know the feeling of not being ready for the promotion, but excited and elated at the same time.

We congratulate you on achieving your goals this year and hope that 2014 is full of happiness, good surprises, and lots of laughter. Leave behind grudges, sadness, and regret. May you continue to surround yourself with people who enrich your life, and stand by you through thick and thin. Keep it simple, and make it memorable!

Here are some pictures from 2013 belt promotions. We hope you enjoy them.

Nina and Eve

AJ

Avery

Olivia

Mandy

Marissa

Pauline

Lauren

Suay

Laura

Kristine

Tara

Leanna

Hannette