Professora Kelly

Professor Kelly, a third-degree black belt under Charles Gracie, specializes in nurturing young talents at Jiu-Jitsu Kids Sparks, Nevada. Her personalized training approach is tailored to each child's unique journey, focusing on gradual progress towards their martial arts goals.

When did you start BJJ?

I didn’t start Jiu-Jitsu until I turned 40.

What about coaching do you like, or why do you coach?

I enjoy coaching all ages because I like watching people develop and discover their power. I particularly love sharing the art of Jiu-Jitsu as I have found no better physical metaphor for enhancing life.

What is your favorite position to teach?

I believe that you can memorize positions and submissions, but it’s the transitions that personalize your Jiu-Jitsu. That being said, I enjoy teaching half-guard and sweeps, because I find their transitional nature to be the most fascinating.

What three BJJ habits do you consider essential?

Jiu-Jitsu is a lifestyle. So staying committed to the process is key to your development. Create habits for yourself that incorporate: Consistency, Repetition, Pace Control (self care) The person who trains 5 days a week at 50% will develop faster than the person who trains 1 or 2 times a week at 200%.

What has training BJJ taught you?

Jiu-Jitsu has given me a tool to reach the flow state. Striving and finding harmony in my mind, body, emotions, energy, and breath on the mat, makes me feel truly alive. At the same time, I am truly aware of my mortality.

When you are not on the mat, how else do you like to spend your time?

I like pretty much anything outdoors: Backcountry Running Hiking Paddle-boarding Surfing Gardening Traveling and Trekking