by Andre Galvao.
This past weekend in Las Vegas was one of the longest – and most meaningful – weekends of my life.
Between Masters Worlds, Jiu-Jitsu Con, CJI, and hosting our Atos Jiu-Jitsu Association Summit… there was already so much happening.
Not only that… At Jiu-Jitsu Con, I taught a seminar alongside João “Bisnaga” Mendes and Bruno Frazatto. Then I spent two days at our booth connecting with supporters.
Even still… In the middle of all the busyness, I found a quiet moment by the pool with my daughter before her big days at CJI.
That small pause reminded me why we do all of this – because of the people we love and the dreams we chase together.
Stepping Into the Unknown
Sarah had just six weeks to prepare. Until this point in her Jiu-Jitsu career, her focus has always been on the Gi. She isn’t even ranked in No-Gi!
But she didn’t hesitate when the invitation came – she wanted to test herself against the best in the world.
Her bracket was stacked: Adele (double ADCC gold), Helena (ADCC Silver), Ana (the reigning Gold ADCC Champion). Sarah stepped forward anyway.
She even had to gain weight to make the 145 lbs division. No excuses. That’s what champions are made of – the courage to walk into the unknown with faith and determination.
Night One: Sarah vs. Ana Vieira
The first night of matches started off slow. The pace wasn’t what the crowd expected, and for a while the energy dipped.
But then came the fight that changed everything. Sarah vs. Ana Vieira.
High pace. High level. A true battle.
That match didn’t just bring the energy back – it was named Fight of the Night. As a father and coach, that moment filled me with pride. Watching Sarah push the pace against one of the toughest women in the sport was incredible.
Sacrifice for God-given Opportunities
A little over a year ago, we were planning her wedding. Afterward, the plan was family time and a honeymoon. But when the CJI opportunity came, Sarah decided to postpone her honeymoon and step into the arena.
That decision says everything about her love for Jiu-Jitsu, her commitment to growth and her respect for every chance God puts in front of her.
Growing Through Challenge
We know that in No-Gi there’s still much work to do. But in just six weeks, the progress was incredible.
For me as her father and coach, what mattered most wasn’t the result – it was her heart. She gave her best, trusted the process, and embraced the challenge. That courage will be the foundation of everything to come.
Gratitude and Faith
This weekend reminded me: life is bigger than medals. It’s about faith, sacrifice, growth, and the love we share on the journey.
Sarah, parabéns filha! We love you so much. Obrigado for being such an amazing human being. You inspire us with your courage. ❤️
And to my wife – thank you for always being the pillar of our family, for me, for Sarah and for everyone around us.
At the end of the day, Jesus is Lord. Period. ✝️
The journey continues.
Oss,
Andre
