Club: Summit Grappling Academy – Isle of Man
Belt: Black
My involvement in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on the Isle of Man spans the entire lifecycle of the sport on the Island. I was the Isle of Man’s first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitor and later its first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt. I founded Summit Grappling Academy from my garage with no existing infrastructure, no competitive pathway, and no local precedent. Today, Summit Grappling Academy has over 250 active members and has produced numerous British Champions, multiple IBJJF European Champions and IBJJF World Championship medallists.
Alongside my work in sport, I bring professional experience as a former Police Special Branch Detective. This background has shaped my approach to governance, safeguarding, risk management, and professional standards—areas that are critical to the long-term credibility and sustainability of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as it continues to grow.
My vision for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on the Isle of Man is structured, sustainable growth under clear standards of safety, fairness, and opportunity. As a regional representativmy priority would be to align local development with UKBJJA values while accounting for the Island’s unique geography and sporting landscape.
Key objectives of my vision include:
1. Governance and Standards
To ensure that all affiliated academies operate under clear safeguarding, coaching, and competition standards, providing parents, athletes, and institutions with confidence in the sport. My professional background equips me to oversee these standards responsibly and pragmatically.
2. Athlete Pathways
To establish clear development pathways from grassroots participation to national and international competition. Isle of Man athletes already compete successfully at the highest levels; the next step is to formalise talent identification, competition preparation, and progression routes aligned with UKBJJA structures.
3. Coach Development and Support
To support coaches through education, mentorship, and access to recognised qualifications. Strong coaches create strong academies, and strong academies sustain the sport long-term.
4. Competition and Exposure
Through large scale grappling events such as JECERIS Invitational, which has already attracted World and UK national champions, I aim to continue raising the competitive profile of the Island. Hosting high-level events locally reduces barriers for athletes while showcasing the Isle of Man as a legitimate hub for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
5. Community and Inclusion
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu should be accessible to all ages and backgrounds. My academy’s growth demonstrates the appetite for a safe, structured, and inclusive environment where discipline, resilience, and respect are developed alongside athletic performance.
Being shortlisted for the Isle of Man Sports Coach of the Year reflects both competitive success and broader community impact. As the first candidate considered for this regional role, I offer not only experience and results, but a long-term vision rooted in professionalism, opportunity, and sustainable growth. My goal is simple: to ensure Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on the Isle of Man continues to thrive, with standards and pathways that match its ambition and talent.
Qualifications/ relevant professional experience
- Former Special Branch Detective
- BJJ Academy owner, Isle of Man’s first BJJ Competitor and first BJJ Black Belt
- Created Summit Grappling Academy from my garage and now has 250 members with multiple IBJJF European Champions and IBJJF World’s medallists.
Social Media
Instagram – @conrad_jiujitsu