We met Alanis in November 2022, when she was co-presenting a seminar with Levi Jones-Leary, her partner and legendary Black Belt. Her vibe and skills impressed us from the start and she is a legend in her own right. When the opportunity came up to support her in her journey to worlds, we jumped at the chance.
Here's a little info about Alanis and her Jiu Jitsu journey
When did you start training Jiu Jitsu?
November 24, 2015
What’s your Club History?
I started at a local gym where I lived in Florida called Gracie Barra Kissimmee and when I was 18 I moved to NYC to train at Unity Jiu Jitsu
Who are your Significant Teachers?
Murilo Santana, Levi Jones-Leary, Lachlan Giles
Significant training partners?
Too many to mention, I consider all my training partners significant as they all bring something different to the table :) Some of the best practitioners I’ve trained with include: Mayssa Bastos, Margot Ciccarelli, Emily Pakulski
When did you know Jiu Jitsu was your life?
When I graduated HS in 2017 (i was 16), I told my mom I wanted to pursue jiu jitsu as my career
What is your biggest achievement so far?
Too many to count. Probably traveling all over the world doing what I love most.
What are your goals/dreams with Jiu Jitsu?
My dream is to become the first Puerto Rican native to win Black belt Worlds. And my goal is to stay present and take each moment as it comes.
What do you love about Jiu Jitsu?
In the beginning, I loved jiu jitsu because it quickly became my outlet for depression, stress, and anxiety. Among so many health benefits, I love jiu jitsu because you never stop learning. Every day I learn something new :)
How are you feeling leading up to worlds 2023?
Feeling great, never felt better! The goal is always to improve all aspects in the game thus feel better than the last time
Who is the person in your bracket you most need to beat?
I can beat anyone in my bracket.
Finally, in your own words, please sum up your experience so far of Alchemical products.
Alchemical products are unique. It’s a high standard for level of comfort, durability, and feel. Literally feels like you’re in pyjamas which just makes training more fun.