Bjj Lifestyle Academy South County

🚨Attention:

In observance of Labor Day, September 7th (Monday), both locations will be closed.

Thank you and have a great holiday.

Coach Mike Rethmeyer

Come join is at Bjj Lifestyle Academy O’Fallon, IL location.
•Instructional Kettlebell class followed by a kettlebell workout
•You don’t have to be a member to participate
•Need a minimum 5 people
•limited spots available
•deadline to sign up Sept 11
•put in memo on venmo, your name and kettlebell with how many people
•Feel free to bring your own KB, we will also have some to share
•Venmo- -Rethmeyer

Great day at the NAGA St. Louis tournament! Proud of everyone who stepped on the mats and represented BJJ Lifestyle Academy with heart and determination.

Thank you to all of our coaches, families, and supporters for being there and cheering on our team. Your support means everything.

Onto the next one.

What an awesome day at our in-house tournament.

Congratulations to all of our kids for stepping onto the mats and competing with heart. You all displayed great skill and sportsmanship. Congratulations to everyone who earned a new ranking today.

Today also marked our very first Adult NoGi In-House Tournament. Every competitor brought great intensity, tested themselves, and left it all on the mats. It was an incredible display of skill, toughness, and respect.

Thank you to all of our students, families, and coaches for making today such a memorable event. We can’t wait for the next one!

This past week at the IBJJF American Nationals in Las Vegas was another step forward in my journey.

My first opponent didn’t show, and in my second match I faced the current World Champion in my age and weight division. I entered with an injured knee from last weekend’s ADCC Dallas Open, but I chose to compete anyway. I felt strong, moved well, and was proud of my performance. My opponent fought a smart match, attacked the injury, and earned the win. No risk no reward, it was fair and square, big props to my opponent, great competitor and a class act gentleman.

Extrinsic motivation is what keeps me going, the challenge, preparation, competition, and support from so many people. Hearing fellow Masters competitors cheer me on and tell me, “Keep going, Mike,” gave me a real lift. After a difficult few months, I’m finally starting to feel my love for Jiu-Jitsu again.

Having my oldest son in my corner made the weekend even more meaningful, and sharing it with my friends Kyle and Lauren made it special.
I’m especially proud of Kyle for bringing home one silver and two bronze medals for our team.

To my family, students, friends, and colleagues, thank you for your love, patience, encouragement, and belief in me.

All glory to my lord Jesus Christ

Now it’s time to heal, get back to work, and prepare for the next one.

Congratulations to Kyle, Andrew, Spencer, and Tim for representing BJJ Lifestyle Academy at the IBJJF St. Louis today.

Proud of each of you for stepping onto the mats and showcasing our team skills.

A big thank you to Bart and Kyle for coaching and supporting the team today. Your leadership and willingness to serve your teammates is greatly appreciated.

Proud of everyone. We keep learning, growing, and moving forward together.

Got 🥈place today at the ADCC DALLAS OPEN.

I earned 2nd place today after losing my first match in overtime by referee decision. I came back strong, dominated my second match, and won my third by default.

I had an incredible experience at the ADCC Dallas Open. The atmosphere was amazing, the event was extremely well run, the staff was professional and friendly, and all of the competitors were tough, respectful, and brought great energy to the mats.

One of the highlights of the day was having my son, Ethan, there to support and coach me throughout the tournament. That made this experience even more meaningful. Best Father’s Day gift ever.

I’m grateful to be back on the podium, and today reminded me that all I need to do is keep showing up, keep working hard, and trust the process. I left everything on the mats and gave it my all.

Thank you to my family, friends, and students for all the love and support throughout this journey. I truly appreciate every one of you.

All glory to God for blessing me today with this amazing opportunity.

Coach Mike isn’t done yet. The work continues. 🦾🔥

In observance of Memorial Day both BJJ Lifestyle Academy locations will be closed on Monday (May 25, 2026).

I wish you all a great Memorial Day weekend.

Coach Mike Rethmeyer