Jiu-jitsu is more than just a system of fighting; it is not solely a martial art: it is a sport; a method for promoting physical fitness and building character in young people; and, ultimately, a way of life.

Grand Master Francisco Mansor created the Kioto Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu method in Brazil. Grand Master Mansor, a 9th Degree Red Belt, is currently the highest-ranking Belt in the United States. On Sunday, July 11th, Grand Master Mansor presided over the presentation of the 4th Degree Black Belt to Milton Regis, Professor of the Kioto Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school (205 West Main Street, 589-0459 or 255-7211, www.kiotobjj.com). At the age of nine, Milton was growing up in Rio de Janeiro, when he became a student of Grand Master Mansor … today Milton is Professor Regis, 4th Degree Black Belt, and still a dedicated, loving, and loyal student of Grand Master Mansor.

Jiu-Jitsu was the basis for all the martial arts such as Karate, Tae-Kwon Do, and Judo. Jiu-Jitsu is widely considered the most efficient art as it encompasses all aspects. BJJ promotes the principle that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend themselves against bigger, stronger opponents by using leverage and proper technique.

Professor Regis teaches from his heart and soul, he is the embodiment of the philosophy and ethics of this art, called Jiu-Jitsu. When a student, regardless of age, meets and studies under Professor Regis, his or her life is poised to be changed forever. In addition to learning the actual art of Jiu-Jitsu, students of Professor Regis, at the Sayville school, become acquainted with and accountable for many necessary life skills, discipline, honesty, loyalty, focus, respect, commitment, integrity …

Professor Regis is an athlete, philosopher, loving husband, and father. His wife, Melissa gave a tender and insightful speech at the 4th Degree presentation. She told the invited guests that each and every one of them is important and meaningful to her husband, their teacher. Melissa went on to say how much it meant to Milton to have them join in the celebration of this momentous personal and professional event. Milton, she said, is someone who “so perfectly defines the meaning of black belt … He makes the complex look so simple. Milton sees things in a way that so few do”, he finds the best in people and puts every effort into, “improving the lives of others whether it be on the mat, after class or when the rest of the world has given up.”

Professor Regis is dedicated to the people and children of Sayville and his style of working from the inside out is very rewarding and effective. Please call to learn more about the free kid’s trial programs: Martial Arts Kids Safe and Kids Bully-Proof. Other free trial programs are available in order for you to make sure this is the place for you and/or your child. There is so much to be gained and nothing to loose by making a call to 589-0459.

Peace.

4th Degree Black Belt Certificate

Grand Master Mansor (l) with Milton Regis (r)

Milton & Melissa Regis with family and friends

The author, Ginnie Moore, lives in Sayville and loves it almost as much as she loves her luggage. Ginnie can be contacted at: ginniemoore@verizon.net, and she would love to hear from you, really.