Roy Dean Interview
Edited version of an interview taken from creativeexercise.com, conducted by Robert Bentley.
Martial arts you’ve studied:
Kodokan Judo, Aikikai Aikido, Seibukan Jujutsu, Enshin Itto-Ryu Batto Jutsu (Iaido), Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and exposure to many others.
What rank or achievements did you obtain in those other arts?
I have first degree blackbelts in Judo, Aikido, Iaido, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I have also obtained a third degree blackbelt in Seibukan Jujutsu.
How long have you been training for?
15 years.
What got you interested in the martial arts in the first place?
Media exposure. The Karate Kid. Steven Seagal. Then the first UFC’s inspired me to train in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and illustrated the importance of cross training.
How long did it take you to achieve your black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Nine and a half years.
What are your two favorite techniques?
Triangle and straight armlock.
How often do you practice?
I practice in some way 5 days a week.
Are there any other training programs etc that you do to supplement your martial arts training?
I do weight training and yoga. I like to go on hikes. I stretch. Meditate. Visit chiropractors. Eat well. It’s all part of it.
Have you participated in any competitions?
Yes. I have won and lost many times.
What were your results?
As a blue belt, I won a gold medal at Grappler’s Quest (no-gi), and a silver medal at the United Gracie Tournament (gi). As a purple belt, I won silver at Chris Brennan’s Westside Submission Championship (winning 5 of 7 matches by submission; no gi), and a gold medal at the HCK All Comers Tourney, receiving awards for fastest submission (flying armbar: 15 seconds) and most technical fighter (gi). All of my wins have been by submission.
Have you ever had to use your skills in a confrontation?
I’ve never had to fight, but I’ve been in situations where I thought that violence was imminent. I think the confidence that jiu-jitsu gives you makes you less prone to aggressive posturing, verbal or physical, since situations can be resolved by so many other means.
What would you say to a prospective student of your art in regards to what they should be looking for in a dojo or instructor?
Look for a place that you feel comfortable. Don’t just go for the name. Go for the technique. Because that is where the focus needs to be to really understand and appreciate an art. This way it can be part of your life, and you can grow from it, and with it, as your mat skills improve. Great competitors don’t always make great teachers, some great teachers may not be the best coaches. It depends on what’s most important to you. What are you looking for? Get a feel for what each instructor offers. Look around. See if you can make a match.
I would also advise them to take a look at the skill level of the students. Would you feel comfortable training with them as a fresh whitebelt? Can they moderate themselves? Are there at least 1 or 2 advanced practitioners working smoothly during training? Does it look like a lot of power is being used? You only get one body for this trip, take care of it. You’ll need it later.
What would you say are the most important qualities that a person must possess to be proficient in this art?
Humility. Dedication. It’s not a one year martial art. The experience changes dramatically as you progress. The first year is not easy, especially if you’re not used to losing. Later, you may have more skill than you ever imagined, and can tap almost anybody you want, but are still dissatisfied with your own game because you have still have small holes, or pockets in need of improvement, that only you know about. You’re still polishing the mirror. The dedication steadies you.
Is there any other advice that you can think of to give a new student of your art?
Leave your ego behind. Enjoy the journey. Each phase has its perks. In many ways, white belt is the best place to be. Just keep going. That’s the most important thing.