Erica Cooper

Biography

Erica started Jiu Jitsu in February of 2018, at Abmar Barbosa Jiu Jitsu Academy, after her boyfriend finally convinced her to give it a try. At first she wanted to lose weight and have something fun to do, but quickly became immersed in the sport.

About 5 months after starting, she traveled to Las Vegas for the IBJJF Master Worlds competition with some of her teammates, though she couldn’t sign up for Worlds due to her rank and age. IBJJF also runs the International Novice competition solely for white belts, so she signed up. To her surprise she won her first 2 fights against tough opponents, earning her a silver at her first competition and her first IBJJF. She was hooked. Erica has since competed and medaled at various competitions- mainly at white and blue belt level.

As she spent more time on the mats she developed more of an interest in learning and teaching jiu jitsu, and started assisting Marysia with the kids classes when her schedule allowed. In 2022, she officially became a Kids Coach at the academy. She is present in all beginner level classes and especially loves coaching her students at competition’s.

In October of 2022 she received her purple belt. She is the first student to begin jiu jitsu in this academy and continue long enough to receive both her blue and purple belts from Abmar.

In January of 2024, she began teaching Women’s Only classes at our affiliate gym, twice a week. Erica understands from her own experience how important it is for women of all ages to be present and comfortable on the mats, and is constantly pushing her female students to find their power and have fun while training.

Erica looks forward to continuing her growth as an instructor and student, as she continues to progress through the ranks.