Saturday 31 December 2011 was a very important day for Carlson Gracie AFS!!
I am extremely pleased and proud to report that Steve Gibson a.k.a "SteveO" was promoted to Black belt by Head Instructor Steve Haydock.
SteveO has been training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu under Steve Haydock since 2003, and Steve expressed immense pride at being able to promote SteveO to the rank of Black belt. This is the first Black belt Steve has ever awarded, and this represents a huge day for the club. Upon awarding the belt, Steve explained that SteveO has all of the qualities necessary for the rank of Black belt, referring to not only his grappling ability but also to his dedication, commitment and teaching ability.
As most of you will know, when Steve was offered the opportunity to work full time with Reebok last year, SteveO took on a large proportion of the teaching responsibilty at the club. During this time, SteveO has demonstrated a fantastic teaching style and his passion and enthusiasm is clear for us all to see. In the tradition of Steve Haydock, as an instructor SteveO puts a great deal of energy into ensuring that students understand the details he is teaching and strives to ensure that everyone trains hard together so that we are constantly improving.
SteveO is a fantastic jiu jitsu player and instructor, and from my point of view an excellent and selfless training partner and friend who has helped me immensely over the years when recovering from injury or preparing to compete. I am sure that all of you would agree that SteveO's promotion is well deserved.
Congratulations on this massive achievement. Onwards and upwards for Carlson Gracie AFS!!
Dave
