Emmanuela Oliveira 
Given the trend towards valuing athletes in the masters division, Cássio Silva is one of the names that deserves a prominent mention. Taking advantage of the rewards of sequential successes, the most recent of which was the title of IBJJF European champion, the professor of School of Champs, taking a short break to breathe, talked with the VF Comunica team to reflect on his current situation and the good relationship between teacher and student who maintains.
“I trained a lot when having a gym and a family were just a dream, everything I did was aimed at this moment. The students I have today have worked with me since everything was limited to plans on paper. I managed to raise my Jiu-Jitsu level so that when that moment came, I could divide my time and train less. My students help me a lot too, this means I can achieve good results in all the areas I dedicate myself to.”, he makes an analysis when reflecting on all his roles: businessman, professor and father.
It’s not just the gold medals that serve as inspiration in Cássio Silva’s career. Even though he discovered Jiu-Jitsu after the age of 20, too late for some, this did not mean any limitations for him to train obstinately to remain among the best. Today, occupying this position, Cássio awaits the invitation for a superfight, a commitment that would further boost his status.
“I started Jiu-Jitsu late, when I was over 20 years old. I’ve always done my best aiming for the highest level, which is adult black-belt. I still do that today, even though I no longer fight in the elite division. I think we always have to preserve this thought, of obtaining the highest level. Maybe I won’t make it, but I know I’ll be fine in other divisions, like masters. I hope to be seen this year so I can do a superfight, I have a good result in competitions and significant titles.”, he highlights, referring to his desire to face Piter Frank in a superfight organized by a professional Jiu-Jitsu event.
Diego’s specialty in Heel Hooks is seen with admiration by Cássio Silva
With the aim of performing in the next AJP Tour tournaments in Rome, Abu Dhabi and Rio de Janeiro, gi and no gi, Cássio Silva wants to further improve his heel hook game in No Gi to surprise and overcome his opponents. In this study, he has an inspiration: Diego “Pato”.
“I would really like to adjust my heel hooks attacks in no gi, I always keep an eye on Diego “Pato”, I think his game matches perfectly with what I lack, I’m even thinking about bringing him to Paris for an exchange, doing some classes with him.”, he reveals, thinking big when he wants to learn more, directly from the sport’s elite.
