The We Defy Foundation gave me access
The first moment I stepped through Labyrinth’s doors, I was uncertain and anxious. Over time I knew this was more than just a place to train—I had found a belonging with a ragtag group later known as the Morning Crew associated with the hashtag, “We’re better than you and we know it.”-White Goodman (jokingly). Founding members include Ryan, Rigo, Bobby, John, and myself.
Built on community, culture, and competition, Labyrinth embodied everything I had been missing.
Community means we rise together. From white belts to black belts, everyone supports and challenges one another.
Culture is grounded in humility, discipline, and mutual respect—reminding me of my days in the Corps, but without ego or pretense.
Competition is more than chasing medals—it’s a relentless commitment to personal growth.
Guiding me through this journey were Dana and Chelsea Cash, the owners of Labyrinth. They didn’t just provide instruction or technical advice—they walked beside me every step of the way. They built not only a school but a culture of care, accountability, and transformation. Dana and Chelsea saw potential in me that I hadn’t yet discovered in myself. They encouraged me to apply for the We Defy Foundation, and that step became a pivotal moment in my life — not just in my journey with Jiu-Jitsu, but in my relationship with Christ. My faith, once buried under pain and doubt, began to stir.
Through every round, every tough roll (especially with Shane), every struggle, every failure and breakthrough—I found Him there. I came to understand that Christ was never absent in my pain. He was present in the grind, in the breathless moments, in the quiet victories—reminding me I am loved beyond all measure, redeemed not by what I’ve done, but by who He is.
Now, as a blue belt, I have the honor to assist in classes, pouring into others what was poured into me, I know this journey is bigger than me. It’s more than just passing on techniques; it’s about encouraging others to believe in themselves, to push through difficulty, and to discover who they truly are on and off the mats.
Looking back, I see God’s hand in every step of this journey.
Labyrinth Jiu-Jitsu gave me a home.
Dana and Chelsea gave me guidance.
The We Defy Foundation gave me access.
And Jesus Christ gave me life.
I am deeply grateful for this community, for the transformation it has brought to my life, and for the chance to now give back.
Through the discipline and struggle on the mats, I began to see parallels in my spiritual walk — the humility, the perseverance, the growth through trials. The environment at Labyrinth constantly pointed me back to truth, to accountability, and to grace. I wasn’t just learning Jiu-Jitsu. I was learning to be a stronger man of faith, a more grounded person, and part of something bigger than myself.
To every veteran reading this, weighed down by pain or doubt—know this: you are not alone. The road is hard, but hope is real. Healing is possible. Brotherhood is waiting. And God can meet you—in the most unexpected places—with a love that will carry you through.