Willy teaches a kids’ jiu jitsu class at Balance Studios in Philadelphia and sees clearly how this art and discipline creates and nurtures self-awareness and confidence. The kids learn to trust themselves as they acquire defense skills, so they may hold true to self in a non-combative way when challenged, bullied or faced with unpleasant choices. With his own naturally playful approach and ability to discern how different children come to learn, Willy really enjoys engaging with the kids. As many parents have witnessed, even in the fun of self-defense games, he manages to impart the depth of this practice, the benefits of which may last a lifetime.
Willy has practiced Gracie Jiu Jitsu since 2005, and other martial art forms since 1962. A fit and limber old guy who moves with the grace of youth, Willy can hang with the guys and gals in their twenties and thirties through warm-up and class, and he can still do a split! After all, one needs mental and physical stamina to paint, to stay at the easel and find one’s way. Bringing the mind and intellect into this particular physical activity sustains Willy’s passion and commitment to make art, and to feel joyful and connected.
Center City Philadelphia