At Indiana Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy (IBJJA), we’re not huge fans of New Year’s resolutions. Let’s face it—resolutions are often fueled by fleeting bursts of motivation that fade as the year moves along. Instead, we embrace a tradition that’s much deeper and more enduring: Hatsu Geiko (初稽古).
Hatsu Geiko, meaning “first training,” is a Japanese tradition dating back to the founder of Judo. It’s a celebration of renewal, rejuvenation, and setting a positive tone for the year ahead. And there’s no better way to kick off the year than stepping onto the mat with a community of like-minded, growth-oriented individuals! For those who join us, Hatsu Geiko more than a tradition—it’s an experience that leaves a lasting positive impact on everyone involved.
Starting 2025 Strong with Hatsu Geiko
This year’s Hatsu Geiko was nothing short of incredible. With over 130 participants filling the mats—one of our largest turnouts ever—the energy was electric! The day was filled with camaraderie, sparring, and plenty of laughter, setting a perfect tone for the year to come.
But what truly made this year special were the promotions. Seven well-deserved promotions were celebrated during Hatsu Geiko, and each one highlighted the dedication, hard work, and resilience of those individuals (including a couple of our Coaches).
Honoring the Promoted
Here are the heartfelt words from our Head Coach James Clingerman, who shared each promotion’s story:
Levi Parrish
“This guy competes more than anyone I know. He splits his training time between IBJJA and Vortex, with Coach Mick Williams. Somehow, Levi manages to be a Police Officer and a Firefighter at the same time. I’m not sure how that works exactly, but it’s probably why he’s so hard on himself. Levi is going to be moving soon, and I’m happy that Coach Mick and I got to promote him to Purple Belt. I know he’ll represent the team well.”
Jake Brocker
“Jake has more time logged in than anybody. He’s one of those guys that, if I show up to the Academy and the lights are on, it’s probably him and a few others doing an open mat. He’s constantly improving himself and his technical prowess. He has made leaps and bounds in his physical well-being, as well as gaining immense skill in Jiu-Jitsu. He and Levi are constantly giving each other stuff about getting their Purple Belts. LOL. I’m glad they could celebrate their promotions the same day! Jake really took to the newly promoted Purple Belt stereotype! 😂🤣”
Samantha Rouelle (formerly Valkenhaus)
“I can’t recall when I met Samantha, but it was definitely at a tournament. It seemed like she was at every tournament, always competing and winning. She was just fun to be around—a bubbly girl who would step out on the mat and completely dismantle people while smiling the whole time. It always made me laugh.
Over the years, I got to know Samantha from seeing her at so many tournaments, seminars, and camps. I was very excited when she said she was moving to Indianapolis to become part of the team! She’s not one to talk about all of her accomplishments or give herself much credit, but she checks all the boxes you want in a pupil… She is an asset to the team, even living so far away. I’m proud to call her a student and a friend! I can’t wait to see what Brown Belt holds for her!”
Coach Jason Denny
“An IMPD Officer, ‘Denny’ has taught Combatives since 2011 and joined IBJJA in 2016. He’s been a staple here ever since. Jason has had success leading up to Purple Belt but really shined at Purple, earning Double Gold at IBJJF Pans 2 years in a row and adding a World Championship to his collection! Denny is always around helping push the team, both technically and physically. I’m so happy to promote him to Brown Belt and excited to see what he does on the competition scene, at this level!”
Coach Terry Smith
“Coach Terry Smith is a well-rounded human. He’s a police officer and Navy veteran. He holds Black Belts in Karate and Judo and now Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He has Muay Thai experience and is a former Defensive Tactics Instructor and has helped train recruits at the IPD/IMPD Academy in combatives. Simply put; he is a bad mamba-jamba!
Terry has been a part of IBJJA for about 17 years now! Even before becoming a Coach, he was always willing to share his knowledge with teammates! Congrats, Coach Terry! I am honored to promote you to Black Belt!”
Angelo Robles & Tiger Robles
“These two gentlemen are so close to my heart, and this was a very well-deserved promotion for them both.
This was a hard promotion, and I was literally speechless, being overcome with emotion. Angelo lost his loving wife, and Tiger lost his wonderful, loving mother several months ago. I wish she could have been here to see this.
What a wonderful duo the two of you have always been! Now I know your bond is even stronger. I’m so glad you walked into IBJJA all those years ago and got to be some part of this Jiu-Jitsu family. I’m so proud of you both and am honored to be a part of your journey. Thank you guys.”
A New Year, A New Chapter
As we reflect on this year’s Hatsu Geiko, it’s clear that this tradition is more than just the “first training” of the year—it’s a celebration of growth, perseverance, and the power of community.
From everyone at IBJJA, we wish you an amazing and successful new year. Here’s to another year of training, learning, and thriving together!