With another season coming to an end, it is time to evaluate the events of the last few months and identify developments and aspects that need to be improved. Roney Edler, in charge of Sertão BJJ, has been attentive to every step of his team throughout 2024. It was a period of great professional improvement, with the expansion of the team and more lives changed for the better through the practice of Jiu-Jitsu.
In a final interview with VF Comunica before the end of the year, Roney gave more details about the school’s growth in the last twelve months and spoke about the goals he intends to work on next year.
“The biggest positive impact was within our team, which reached another continent with a new branch, opening more doors of opportunity for all students and teachers. Without a doubt, the partnership with Seda College, for students to learn English and conquer the world, was also a differentiator,” said Roney.
Roney Edler’s greatest satisfaction was providing the first international competition for Sertão athletes
Sertão BJJ’s support focus is on the Northeast of Brazil, on the team’s Jiu-Jitsu athletes who train and compete in this region of Brazil. Despite the growth of the sport worldwide, certain places still do not receive support, more centralized in the major capitals.
“What made me happiest was being able to provide students who have been standing out in the Northeastern Jiu-Jitsu scene with the experience of their first international competition outside of the country. Three students are going to the European Championship in Lisbon, with everything paid for by the team. God willing, we will reach greater heights, with more athletes benefiting.”.
The goal is to make Jiu-Jitsu a way of life for the future
Roney Edler has more complex plans to ensure the professional development of the athletes who defend the Sertão flag. With support in the present, he ensures that competitors have the opportunity to stand out in major IBJJF competitions. However, looking to the future is also a necessity. That is why he emphasizes the importance of knowing how to teach, mastering the language and having a sense of entrepreneurship, so that these same students are able to manage their own lives.
“I was able to bring these athletes to the US to join forces and open more academies in the US. When they arrive here, the goal is for them to continue my teaching, so they can improve their skills in the Gentle Art and I can also teach them how to manage a gym. They need to build a future after their career as athletes, they need to have their own gym, take the next step, pass on what they have learned and train more good people.”.
In a moment of self-evaluation, a much more challenging task, Roney Edler said that he evolved as a leader and felt that he was able to positively influence the people under his guidance.
“It’s hard to evaluate myself, but I think the area where I grew the most was leadership. Knowing how to manage a team, even a small one, is hard work. Not everyone thinks in the same direction, but I have to show them and lead them on a path that everyone can enjoy and prosper in so that they can grow with me. I don’t grow alone, I take everyone with me, because they are part of everything.”.
