A Letter from Jay Valko
Hello all,
On Saturday June 14th, I was awarded my black belt by Eduardo DeLima.
I just wanted to drop a quick note to you guys, my friends, family and students – to thank everyone who’s helped me over the years, from training partners to various instructors, and all those who have supported me in various ways.
I have a few special thank you’s I have to make:
First, to Eduardo. I was one of his first students when he moved to the States and even though I moved to Chicago after less than two years with Eduardo, he has always welcomed me back when I returned to Florida to train. I appreciate his guidance, instruction and friendship. His style is what I’ve based mine on. When we roll, I almost feel like I am rolling with myself.
Second, to Carlson Gracie. He moved to Chicago shortly after I did and training with him was one of the great honors of my life. He taught me how to compete, and how to treat every single student as a valued team member. He inspired me on the mat, and more importantly, in my daily living.
Third, to my teammates and students. They’ve supported me all the way and took a chance in following me when I opened my own school. They push me hard, and watching them improve is more satisfying than my own personal gains.
Fourth, to my girlfriend Kate, who has put up with my being really tired, beaten and cranky after hard training, and who’s helped me build my school with support and creative ideas.
Fifth, to Mike Schwartz of Symmetry Center for giving me the opportunity to open my school, and for investing in, and believing in me.
Finally, I have to dedicate my black belt to my dad Jim Valko. He started training a couple of years after I did, at age 49, and is now a purple belt at 54. You’re a great inspiration and role model.
Thank you, everyone.
Jay Valko
Valko Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Academy
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A Letter from Jay Valko
Hello all,
On Saturday June 14th, I was awarded my black belt by Eduardo DeLima.
I just wanted to drop a quick note to you guys, my friends, family and students – to thank everyone who’s helped me over the years, from training partners to various instructors, and all those who have supported me in various ways.
I have a few special thank you’s I have to make:
First, to Eduardo. I was one of his first students when he moved to the States and even though I moved to Chicago after less than two years with Eduardo, he has always welcomed me back when I returned to Florida to train. I appreciate his guidance, instruction and friendship. His style is what I’ve based mine on. When we roll, I almost feel like I am rolling with myself.
Second, to Carlson Gracie. He moved to Chicago shortly after I did and training with him was one of the great honors of my life. He taught me how to compete, and how to treat every single student as a valued team member. He inspired me on the mat, and more importantly, in my daily living.
Third, to my teammates and students. They’ve supported me all the way and took a chance in following me when I opened my own school. They push me hard, and watching them improve is more satisfying than my own personal gains.
Fourth, to my girlfriend Kate, who has put up with my being really tired, beaten and cranky after hard training, and who’s helped me build my school with support and creative ideas.
Fifth, to Mike Schwartz of Symmetry Center for giving me the opportunity to open my school, and for investing in, and believing in me.
Finally, I have to dedicate my black belt to my dad Jim Valko. He started training a couple of years after I did, at age 49, and is now a purple belt at 54. You’re a great inspiration and role model.
Thank you, everyone.
Jay Valko
Valko Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Academy
Add Content...