“I’m super PROUD! It’s built her confidence. She now knows she’s capable of things she never knew she was capable of,” said Sandra Gonzalez.
A PROUD MOM! Sandra Gonzalez was there to cheer her 13-year-old daughter on as she became a “Gold Medal World Champion.” Alaina Gonzalez, a 7th grader at Wilson and Young Middle School, recently participated in the American Grappling Federation World Championship in Fort Worth. Kids worldwide participated in the competition, including young people from Europe, Asia, Canada, Mexico, and South America.
“I was surprised,” said Alaina.
Specifically, the teen competed in the “Gray Jr. Lightweight II No-Gi.” She practices five to ten hours a week at Ruffhouse MMA on North Grant to get to that level. Alaina’s mom also says the coaches focus on positivity.
“Once a week, they have to say something positive about themselves in the mirror. Negativity is not allowed,” said Sandra.
Tryann Stevenson, a Coach a Ruffhouse MMA, has worked there for six years. He is always going above and beyond to encourage the youngsters. He also shared a group pic and says some of the kids came home with Silver and Bronze medals as well.
Congrats to all the winners! A reminder that hard work and dedication pay off.