Emmanuela Oliveira 
Today it is common to see Brazilian black-belts, athletes and professors, who move to the United States to make a living from sports abroad. If in Brazil there are not the same opportunities as those found in a different country, it does not mean that the change of environment is only composed of benefits: language and cultural barriers, in addition to the absence of loved ones who remained, can be hard obstacles to someone not psychologically prepared. Roney Edler, a black-belt born in the Northeast of Brazil, is one of the Jiu-Jitsu professionals who experienced the challenges of the transition.
“It’s not an easy task, as there are barriers of English, culture, and human relations to work and teach. It is difficult to teach without a good knowledge of English, so that athletes understand the concept and dynamics of the technique. Other than that, I think that the rest, as a good Northeasterner that I am, I can handle because I have always faced difficulties in my journey of life.”, he explained, also mentioning that the lack of collaboration from other Brazilians in the country could be another problem, as that many may see the arrival of a fellow countryman as a rival.
Brazilian professor on the mat has different value in the USA, according to Roney
According to Roney, the acceptance of Jiu-Jitsu teaching by the American public is actually greater when it is related to a professor trained in Brazil. As much as Jiu-Jitsu has become a globalized sport, the burden of tradition is still strongly considered abroad. “The acceptance here is the best, as they value the class and the presence of a Brazilian black-belt on the mat.”, he assures.
When moving to the United States became a real goal, Roney hurried to learn English, even if it was just the basics of the language to be able to communicate. This is the first initiative that needs to be taken before thinking about organizing your luggage.
“I tried to learn basic English so I wouldn’t get too lost, but I still didn’t have enough English to teach. My wife, who was already training at the time, helped me teach classes alone. From time to time I need her to help me, as I still have a blue-belt in English.”, he commented in an interview with VF Comunica.
Following the path of work to expand the reach of Sertão BJJ, Roney Edler points out that he is leading a team that is still small, but that acts differently “always capturing support for athletes and professors in Brazil, helping to achieve objectives and changing lives through Jiu-Jitsu.” Also according to the black belt, the academy in the United States is a welcoming place for athletes with an approved visa who want to compete in the country.
