Female Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Athletes Visiting Watermark BJJ Near Cleveland
If you’ve been searching for female jiu jitsu near me, look no further than Watermark Jiu Jitsu in Brecksville. We’re not just a gym—we’re a growing community of strong, technical, and inspiring women leading the way on and off the mat.
On May 24, 2025, Watermark Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was joined by two female jiu jitsu champions, Lauren Sears and Ana Mayordam after earning stunning submission victories at the Black River Invitational, held at the historic Lorain Palace Theatre. This elite grappling showcase celebrated the art of jiu jitsu in a format that finally gave female athletes the spotlight they deserve.
Lauren Sears and Ana Mayordam Honor Watermark BJJ with Grappling Expertise
Real Wins. Real Role Models.
Lauren Sears, ranked 11th in the world, secured a slick crucifix into a reverse omoplata finish in the co-main event. Ana Mayordam, ranked 8th in her division, finished the main event with a devastating Aoki lock that had the crowd on its feet. These weren’t just highlight reel submissions—these were hard-earned, high-level victories by women who train, teach, and were inspiring Watermark BJJ athletes right here in Northeast Ohio. Link to Ana Mayordam's event video. Link to video of Lauren Sears' match.
What happens the day after these two top female BJJ athletes win their matches at the Black River Invitational? They were back on the mat—sharing their knowledge with students of all ages and backgrounds at Watermark BJJ.
Why More Women Are Training Jiu Jitsu
Jiu jitsu has long been dominated by men—but that’s changing. More women are stepping onto the mat every day, looking for:
- A full-body workout that’s never boring
- Real-world self-defense skills
- Confidence in their strength, agility, and control
- Supportive, respectful training partners
- A path to growth that’s about progress, not perfection
At Watermark Jiu Jitsu, we make sure women feel welcome—whether it’s your first class or your 500th. Our instructors are approachable, technical, and invested in helping you improve. And yes, we have women on the mats every week—training, teaching, and leading.
Elevating Women in Grappling
The Black River Invitational is one of the few events in the region making a serious effort to elevate female grapplers. Created by Cleveland black belt Al Hemmingsen, the event is built around fairness, visibility, and production quality—not paywalls or politics. It’s an event where:
- Female matches headline the main card
- Commentary respects the athletes and their achievements
- Audience members vote on submissions and inspiring performances
- Every match is filmed and freely shared for athlete promotion
And when women like Lauren and Ana win at this level, they bring those lessons home—turning world-class competition into community learning moments here in Brecksville.
Female Jiu Jitsu Near Cleveland and Akron
Watermark Jiu Jitsu is conveniently located in Brecksville, Ohio, just 15 miles south of Cleveland and 25 miles north of Akron. We welcome women from Broadview Heights, Parma, North Royalton, Independence, Richfield, Valley View and beyond.
If you’re a woman who’s ever been curious about jiu jitsu but felt nervous to try—we’re here for you. Whether your goals are fitness, self-defense, competition, or personal growth, you’ll find encouragement, skill, and support at Watermark BJJ.
Try a Week of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for Free
Start your journey with a free one-week trial. No contracts. No egos. Just a welcoming space to learn, sweat, and grow—at your own pace.
Watermark Jiu Jitsu | Brecksville, OH
Serving Greater Cleveland and surrounding suburbs.
Much of the photography and videography in this post are provided by Aldea Studios
