Professor Jason Strickland
Where are you from?
I'm originally from Gallatin, TN but was raised on a farm in Brush Creek, TN. While in the United States NAVY, I lived in Norfolk, VA.
When did you start jiu-jitsu?
I started training in late 2015 while I was a member of the UFC gym. I have been training non-stop since then.
Why did you start doing jiu-jitsu?
In 2015, while in a boxing class, I noticed some guys rolling on the mat and they were getting after it and I thought that looks hard and like a great workout. I've always liked to have a challenge in my life and after doing Crossfit for several years I wanted to change it up. Also, I was a business owner and I always looked for different ways to relieve stress and jiu-jitsu turned out to be the best thing for me in dealing with stress. I have met some of the best people in jiu-jitsu as well!
Why do you like to teach?
When I first started training Jiu-Jitsu, I can remember a blue belt who would never roll with me or any other white belt (he was very arrogant to the point he wouldn't even talk to any white belts). I remember how that made me feel and as I was promoted I always wanted to make all new people feel welcome to the gym. For most people, this is the hardest thing they have ever done and there are a lot of days it's easier not to come especially if you don't like the environment. When I was asked to start teaching it was a huge honor for me, I didn't want to tell /show anyone the wrong move. By teaching, it makes me prepare for every class to the point of sometimes I don’t always sleep well the night before I teach. I think everyone should try Jiu-Jitsu at least once. My goal is for everyone who comes to Legion for the first time (even if they don't stick with it) is they leave feeling like we welcomed them with open arms!
List some of your accomplishments:
- Being selected as the husband to a great wife (Julie) who is a great Christian woman who supports me in anything I take on! Having three wonderful daughters (Skyler, Peyton, and Riley) and a wild and crazy grandson (Brooks)!
- I have been very fortunate to start and eventually sell a software hosting business! The team that we had in that business is what made us successful and what led to the eventual sale.
- My biggest Jiu-Jitsu accomplishment is being blessed to be one of the owners of Legion and all the great relationships I have made along the way!
