Kelly Jarrell

I was first introduced to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu when my husband, Joao Crus, began teaching it in Dripping Springs, about 8 years ago. I was intrigued by the movement of this particular martial art. I began to practice only for a short while, but soon had to stop--- someone needed to be home with my son on school nights.
Even though I no longer practiced Jiu-Jitsu, it still was a part of my everyday life, with my son practicing and my husband teaching. I enjoyed watching my son evolve through the years as he developed his strategy and ability to defend himself confidently. It has also been a great journey being a part of the growth of Joao Crus Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu School through the years.
Fast forward 8 years, I returned to my own practice in August 2011, when my husband opened his 3rd school in Austin. I have really enjoyed having the opportunity to return to the mental and physical challenge of Jiu-Jitsu. Some of the things I love about Jiu-Jitsu are the flow of movement, the dance between you and your opponent, the strategy of neutralizing rather than attacking, and the mental chess game you play with your body and the techniques.
As an educator and social worker, I wear another hat with this particular school. I have contributed to the development of the children’s program. I will continue to be a consultant as the children’s program expands to include a toddler’s program.
I look forward to continuing to develop my game and technique. I know that by doing so I am really growing as a human being through the journey of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.