Club: Gracie Swindon – England South
Belt: Black+
My name is Lucas Luz and I am running for the South of England Officer role. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has been my life since I started training when I was 14 years old. I had the honour of earning my black belt at the Gracie Academy in Brazil.
Over the years, I have competed all over the world, including representing the Navy BJJ team. Those experiences taught me what high-level BJJ looks like, how to build a strong team, and what adult students need to succeed on the mats.
I have lived in the UK for 10 years now. As a proud British citizen, I want to step up and give back to the country and the local UKBJJA community that I call home. I am proud to have won the title of British Champion in both Gi and No-Gi, as well as winning multiple IBJJF Opens and AJP tournaments. I care deeply about making sure our sport is well- organized, supportive, and open to everyone.
Vision for Developing BJJ in the UK
My vision for the South of England is simple: bring clubs together, create better training for the adults we already have, and bring new faces into the sport.
BJJ changes lives, and I want more people to experience that. If elected, I will work closely with the Regional Development Director to connect with local clubs and grow our community. I want to help make BJJ less intimidating for beginners so we can pack our mats with new adult students.
I believe in action over words. I am committed to delivering at least one strong regional event every quarter. While I will always support our kids and juniors, my main goals for the adults are:
- Growing the Sport: Helping organize regional beginner days or introduction camps. This is a great way to safely welcome new adults into BJJ, teach them the basics, and show them what our community is all about.
- Adult Training Camps & Open Mats: Setting up events where adults from different clubs can come together. I want spaces where we can share knowledge, cross-train, and push each other in a friendly environment.
- Competitor Support: Organizing local prep camps to help our adult and masters competitors get ready for the National Championships and the international stage.
I know this role takes real work. I am fully committed to putting in the volunteer hours needed to support the National Championships and run these local events properly. I want to use my experience from Brazil, the Navy, and traveling the world to help the South of England grow and become a powerhouse region. I would be honoured to have your vote.
Qualifications/ relevant professional experience
- 3rd degree Black Belt IBJJF Certificate
- Head Coach of Gracie Swindon and Gracie Stroud
- Business Degree
- Former 1st Lieutenant of Brazilian Navy
Social Media
Instagram – @lucasluz_bjj @gracieswindon @graciestroudj