Club: Andy Roberts BJJ – England, South
Belt: Black+ – 4th degree
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has been at the centre of my life for over 25 years. As a lifelong martial artist and one of the UK’s earlier black belts, I have dedicated my career to developing the sport from the ground up — building a successful academy (Andy Roberts BJJ), coaching competitors, delivering national tournaments, and creating structured training programmes for the British Army and wider security sectors through the Dismounted Close Combat Survivability (DCCS) programme.
I have competed at a high level, earning a silver medal at the IBJJF European No-Gi Championships as an adult black belt, alongside multiple IBJJF and British Open medals, and appearances on professional platforms such as Polaris. I continue to compete, maintaining a strong connection to the realities faced by athletes across all levels.
Through my work in both civilian and military environments, I have seen first-hand the positive impact BJJ can have on confidence, discipline, resilience, and community. I have also observed how governance can either support or hinder growth. I believe the UKBJJA plays a vital role in supporting the sport in a way that is collaborative, transparent, and impartial — ensuring all clubs and athletes are represented fairly, regardless of affiliation.
As Councillor for the South of England, my focus would be on practical support, communication, and regional representation.
I aim to act as a clear and accessible point of contact for academies, helping to share best practice, support sustainable growth, and signpost UKBJJA resources where needed. I would ensure strong two-way communication between clubs in the South and the wider organisation, representing regional needs while supporting national objectives.
I would also look to support alignment between competitions and athlete pathways, encouraging collaboration between organisers to raise standards and reduce unnecessary clashes. Alongside this, I would promote consistent coaching standards, safeguarding awareness, and ongoing development across the region.
Above all, I believe in fostering unity within the BJJ community. The South of England has a diverse and growing network of academies, and it is important that this growth is supported in a way that encourages collaboration rather than division.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in the UK is at an important stage of development. The role of Councillor is key in ensuring that growth is supported with structure, communication, and strong regional representation. I would be proud to contribute to this and support the continued development of the sport.
Qualifications/ relevant professional experience
- Lifelong Martial Artist
- 4th Degree Black Belt BJJ
- Full time martial arts instructor since 1999
- Full time Academy owner since 2008
- Head Coach British Army BJJ Team, UFC Gym BJJ Lead for UK
- Headed up the Grappling Arts Association for a couple of years until we closed it.
- Created the British Army’s new Close Combat Survivability Programme.
Social Media
Instagram – @andyrobertsbjj