Becca O’Neill
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
North Coast Grappling
You will always find Becca O’Neill at the gym. Since she and her partner started their own gym six years ago, the space has experienced tremendous growth. Initially having only four members, they now consistently attract around 30 people to their classes. Moving into a new space last October was a proud moment for Becca. She mentioned that witnessing the gym’s expansion, including the addition of a teen group and the growth in membership, surpasses almost any personal accomplishment.
Becca’s personal journey took a somewhat indirect path. Growing up, she explored various sports, searching for those she enjoyed. At the age of 11, she was diagnosed with a juvenile form of arthritis. However, it wasn’t until she turned 20 that she learned how strength training and regular movement could help alleviate some of her joint pain. Starting at the gym with limited knowledge of what to do, she began with light weights and gradually progressed. Her gym routine eventually evolved into kickboxing, and from there, she ventured into Jui jistu. Nine years later, she continues to practice Jui jistu and now owns a gym, acknowledging that her hobby has taken on a life of its own.
Participating in Jui jistu in Northern Ireland has not always afforded Becca the opportunity to spar against many other women. Nonetheless, this circumstance has enabled her to travel abroad and compete. Competing has taken her to different parts of Europe as well as America. She said Long Beach, CA was one of her favourite competitions. Over the past year, she earned a promotion and hopes to compete at a new level in the fall. Despite the small numbers, women’s participation in sports has steadily increased. Whenever there is an open mat session, which is an informal training session without structured instruction, the turnout is significant. Beyond her own competitive pursuits, Becca focuses on goal-setting with the entire gym community. She believes that the supportive environment and encouragement from others greatly contribute to individual goals. The youth classes are particularly inspiring because the young participants seek role models, encouraging Becca to lead by example.
When asked for advice on becoming more active, Becca stated “Do it for the social side of things, make sure it has a positive impact on your life. If the activity becomes a good habit, then it is something you can stay consistent with it.” Establishing a positive habit allows for consistent engagement. This consistency has not only improved Becca’s confidence but also made it easier for her to speak in front of others, a skill she attributes to her work on the mat and participation in BJJ. When discussing involvement in the sport, Becca highlighted the value of finding spaces that offer environments that make you comfortable like women’s only mat times and small group classes.
The Female Sports Forum is thrilled to have Becca as a role model, not only for her participation in Brazilian Jui jistu but also as a gym owner. It is inspiring to learn about how Jui jistu can be adapted to accommodate individuals of all activity levels and how Becca has discovered a sport and community that provides mutual support and a sense of family. Thank you, Becca!
