Coach Hope Douglass began her martial arts training at a young age, and has now made an avid career for herself as a full-time BJJ athlete and international competitor. Hope travels regularly to train under some of the best BJJ coaches in the world, such as Cicero Costha and Murilo Santana, and has a resume full of international competitions.
She is a Pan Ams, World No-Gi, Abu Dhabi Grand Slam, CBJJE World Championships and Sao Paulo State medalist and Copa Podio representative. Locally she is a two-time Abu Dhabi World Pro trials winner, 4-time IBJJF Sydney International Open Champion, IBJJF Melbourne International Open Champion, Pan Pacific Champion, Victorian State Champion, Sydney Cup Champion and Events BJJ Champion.
With a Cert III and IV in fitness and personal training, as well as years of coaching experience, Hope has an educated and well-rounded approach to training and teaching. A true asset to the Introduction and Kids BJJ classes at Absolute MMA St Kilda, we are lucky to have Hope on board! Read on to find out more about this champion.
What would you consider your greatest achievements in Martial Arts?
My greatest achievements are yet to come… but at the present time my greatest achievement is the fact that I train full time, travel, compete and medal at high level international tournaments whilst being a single mother.
What made you start Martial Arts?
I started my martial arts journey at the age of 6 when my parents enrolled me in after school karate classes. I spent many years training in Karate, before dabbling in different styles (wrestling, Muay Thai) then eventually making the switch to training BJJ full time as teenager/young adult.
How did you first get involved with Absolute MMA? (What industry were you in prior to Martial Arts? What made you change?)
I was previously living in Sydney, but made the move to Melbourne to train at Absolute MMA. I had known, trained with and competed with several Absolute MMA members and followed their careers for a long time before making the move to Melbourne to train with the best in the country.
Mantra/Quote to live by?
John 3:16
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
BJJ black belt world champion.
Who is an inspiration to you, and why?
My partner Ariel Tabak. If you don’t already know him you should keep an eye out for him.I have never met such an analytical mind before; the way he applies himself to learning Jiu Jitsu is an art form in itself. He will be hitting the podium internationally at black belt within the next couple of years without a doubt.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Fruit. Especially peaches.
If you weren’t working in the Martial Arts industry, what would you be doing?
I’m also a qualified personal trainer. So if I wasn’t pursuing my athletic career in martial arts, I’d still be in the gym working as a PT.
What do you like to do to relax besides training?
Beach.
If you were going to be an animal, what would you be and why?
A cat. Because they have great mobility and flexibility. And because they do what they want.
What is your favorite travel destination? Why?
So far… Portugal. There is something magical/fairy tale like about a city of hills surrounded by ancient castles and cathedrals. I could (and have) spend hours just walking around and exploring.
Have you ever worked a job not in the fitness/martial arts industry? What were the highlights and lessons you learned?
I have worked in hospitality (restaurants, cafes, bars) and in reception/administration roles. I learnt that I do not like spending my time doing things that are not helping me to achieve my goals. Life is too short.
What movie have you seen over 5 times?
Every Disney movie.
“Hope is a seasoned competitor in the gi and has a sound understanding of the underlying concepts of Jiu Jitsu. She has a great attitude towards training, teaching and competition, and is a great presence to have at the gym.”- Ari Tabak
“Hope is one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. Everyone loves her, even though we used to be garbage. Hope is not only an awesome person and a coach, her BJJ and her long legs are a lethal combination. She enjoys bashing me up on daily basis. We are so lucky to have Hope here in Melbourne!”- Livia Giles
“It’s only been a few months since Hope has been with us at Absolute, but she has helped myself (and I’m sure many others) with our jiu jitsu immensely! She is an amazing coach and a great great training partner! Her attention to details is superb and we learn so much from training with her everyday. She is a great asset to the team and we can’t wait to see her shine at the world stage in the upcoming comps!”- Chisaki Akiyama