Full Name:

Saad Al-Aziz

Belt/Degree:

Main Achievements/Successes:

I just finished watching the "Karate Kid" which in my humble opinion is not only one of the greatest martial arts movies of all times, but one of the best movies of all time period. Watching this movie in 1984 inspired me to pursue a life as a martial artist. I have spent years studying and training in Boxing, Hapkido and Jiu Jitsu.

I love to teach martial arts and think every martial arts teacher has to make a choice as to who they are going to be as a teacher and more importantly as a person. From the movie "Karate Kid" we should strive to be the teacher Mr. Miyagi was to Daniel Larusso rather than the teacher John Kreese was to Johnny Lawrence and the rest of the Cobra Kai Dojo. If you do not remember the story and the names of the characters then I encourage you to watch this movie again or watch it for the first time.

I don't train daily in jiu jitsu and go to seminars, because I want to fight in the UFC or win some World Championship. I am 47 years old and realize those are young men's endeavors; although I still enjoy stepping onto the mats and competing in tournaments from time to time. I train jiu jitsu, because it is good for my mind, body and soul. Jiu Jitsu may or may not add years to my life, but it definitely adds life to my years. My life and the life of my family is so much richer, because of our jiu jitsu journey together.

Favorite Position/Technique:

Kimura and cross collar choke.

Biography:

I am a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy and have served for 30 years on active duty. However, I am a husband to a wonderful lady and father to four wonderful kids, which is my proudest achievement in life.