Jiu-jitsu jubilation as Mexborough teenager beats the opposition

A TEENAGER from Mexborough has become a high flier in the sport of jiu-jitsu after achieving success in a US competition.

The 15-year-old has just returned from Florida as the new IBJJF Pan American Champion after winning one of the biggest titles in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

Isaac Coad has built an inspiring competitive record of 93 wins and just six losses across local shows and Elite BJJ competitions.

And proud dad Gary Coad said: “I honestly couldn’t be prouder.”

Isaac started jiu-jitsu training at Renowned Martial Arts in Barnsley at the age of 11, after switching from boxing which he began at just seven years old.

He took gold in his first jiu-jitsu competition after just three months studying the martial art.

Gary told the Advertiser: “He really did not go into it with any intention of competing but he took double gold in his first competition.

“He was already physically strong from the boxing.

“After stepping up to the IBJJF, widely regarded as the most prestigious organisation in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, he has remained undefeated with an outstanding record of nine wins and zero losses.

“His journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

“He first became Elite National, European and World Champion before moving into the IBJJF.

“Since then, he has won the IBJJF London Open twice, become IBJJF European Champion in Dublin, and has now travelled to the United States to win the IBJJF Pan American Championship against some of the world’s best young athletes.”

Isaac is a pupil at the Laurel Academy in Mexborough, which has been supportive of his jiu-jitsu endeavours - even sponsoring him to the tune of £750.

Gary said that Isaac works hard at Renowned Martial Arts to master his fighting skills.

He told the Advertiser: “He spends countless hours every week developing his skills while balancing school and the demands of competing at the highest level.

“None of this would have been possible without the incredible support we’ve received from people and businesses across Mexborough, Wath and Barnsley.

“We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who sponsored Isaac, donated, attended fundraising events, shared his journey or simply wished him luck.

“Every bit of support helped make this dream a reality, and we will never forget the kindness shown by our local community.

“As his dad, I honestly couldn’t be prouder. Watching him stand on top of the podium in Florida with a gold medal around his neck was an unforgettable moment for our family.”

Isaac added: “Jiu-jitsu means the world to me.

“When I first started at 11 years old I wanted to be a YouTuber, now all I want is to train as often as possible and compete at the highest level possible (IBJJF) and one day have my own gym and help others see the beauty of the sport I love.”

Isaac is now looking at the next step in his jiu-jitsu career by taking part in competitions over the next few months.