07/28/2026
Today, my daughter Violet earned her brown belt from her Professor ANDMENEGHETTI
To most people, it’s another milestone in Brazilian Jiujitsu. To us, it represents years of sacrifice, purpose, and a heart that has never stopped serving others.
The truth is… El Monte Jiu-Jitsu would not exist if it weren’t for Violet.
When she first asked to train, I was not only not convinced, I was completely against it. I didn’t see the path that she somehow already knew was waiting for her. She insisted, and that single decision changed the course of our Familia’s life forever.
People often ask what inspired her to train. Her answer has always humbled me.
She wanted to become strong enough to protect our familia and to care for her two autistic brothers on the day I was no longer able to.
That wasn’t a child’s dream of becoming a champion. It was a young girl’s promise to the people she loves most.
That same heart is what she brings to every class she teaches.
She has an extraordinary ability to see potential where others see limitations. Because of the love and experience she’s gained caring for her brothers, she welcomes every student with patience, compassion, and understanding. Whether someone struggles with confidence, or simply needs a place to belong, Violet meets them where they are and reminds them they are capable of more than they believe.
Belts measure technical growth.
But character is measured by the lives you change.
Watching you become this woman has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Your brown belt is well deserved, not just because of how you fight on the mats, but because of how fiercely you fight for the people around you.
We couldn’t be more proud of you.
Congratulations, Coach Violet.
We love you beyond words.
