Jiu Jitsu champ

Condit Elementary School first grader Nina Shelger (pictured, left) won gold at the Jiu Jitsu World Pro Houston event. The Brazilian Jiu Jitsu organization hosts tournaments around the country, for both children and adults. The combat sport is based on grappling and submission holds, with the goal of controlling your opponent and gaining a dominant position. Nina began jiu jitsu and wrestling when she was 4 years old, and she practices at the Paradigm Training Center under Grappling Fight Team coaches Marcus Bello and Washington Luis. In addition to learning new moves, practicing with her friends, and earning belt promotions, Nina also loves her post-match tradition of eating at Fuddruckers with her family. 

Editor’s note: Send your best high-resolution photos and behind-the-scenes stories about young local athletes, in both team and individual sports, to SportzBuzz, Jr. at [email protected]. Include all contact info, names, ages, grades and schools. Featured athletes must live in Buzz-circulation neighborhoods. Items will be published on a space-available basis.