At just six years old, our son Cooper began to experience bullying. We had recently moved with the military to Germany, stepping out of our Covid-era cocoon into a brand-new community. With his bold personality, ADHD, ginger hair, and nystagmus, Cooper stood out—and sadly, became an easy target. We watched as his joy faded, replaced by anxiety and withdrawal.​

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When we returned to the States and his former school, we saw the lasting impact. Cooper carried the weight of trauma: a victim mindset, overwhelming fear, distrust, and anxiety. At times, he even lashed out in aggression. Concerned, the school director suggested Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. From his very first class, something changed. Cooper lit up. He discovered confidence, built real friendships, and found a safe place to be himself. Over time, his emotional regulation and motor skills improved so significantly that he no longer needed occupational therapy—support he had relied on since toddlerhood. And most importantly, his smile returned, brighter than ever.​

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“Ginger-Jitsu” began as a playful inside joke between my husband and me whenever Cooper was matched with another red-haired competitor. We’d laugh and say, “Ginger-Jitsu!”—a nod to the fiery stereotype that gingers are stubborn, strong-willed, and relentless. What began as a joke soon grew into something bigger: a vision to help other children like Cooper reclaim their joy and strength.​

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Today, Cooper proudly shares his BJJ journey and inspires others to step onto the mat. He was our reason for starting Ginger-Jitsu—and he remains our biggest cheerleader and our driving motivation.

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Join us, and help more children like Cooper find their strength, community, and joy.