Featured Camp Instructor: Aaron Esdon

Aaron Esdon – BJJ Globetrotters

Age: 43
Belt: Black
Profession: Criminal Intelligence Analyst/Jiu Jitsu Instructor
Started training (year): 2014
City/country: London, Ontario, Canada

Main achievements in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu:

Prior to 2020, I would’ve said hitting the jiu-jitsu podium over 40 times at all belt levels, including a bronze medal at the Pan IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu No-Gi Championships was my main achievement.

Then the global pandemic hit and my perspective changed. It was during that time that I had the opportunity to open my own jiu-jitsu academy in London, Ontario.

In a million years, I would never have fully appreciated the fulfillment in developing and growing an academy from virtually nothing.

During the last three years, the amazing people I have met, and the experiences I have been fortunate enough to experience have truly opened my eyes to what achievement really means.

Aaron Esdon – BJJ Globetrotters

Which Globetrotters camps have you attended:

Arizona Camp 2021, 2022, 2023. Maine USA Camp 2022, 2023. Zen Camp Spring 2024.

Which camp has been your favorite so far?

Maine USA Camp 2023 was, without a doubt, my favorite. Being able to instruct a class at such a special place for so many incredible people is a memory I will cherish forever. On top of instructing, it was my first opportunity to bring two of my students and show them what makes Globetrotter’s camps so special.

Aaron Esdon- BJJ instructor

Favorite stories/moments from the camps?

Without a doubt, receiving my black belt from Professor Jay Pages and Professor Matt McPeake a the Arizona Camp in 2023 was a camp highlight for me. I was floored and has no idea such an honour would be bestowed upon me in front of nearly 300 people. Being able to share such a special moment with so many friendly and welcoming practitioners truly made it one of the most special moments in my entire jiu-jitsu journey.

Your favorite class/classes to teach at camp?

Aaron Esdon – BJJ Globetrotters USA Camp

Anything half guard is such an enjoyable teaching experience for me. As a white belt I quickly became drawn to other half guard practitioners like Lucas Leite and love exploring all the details of both bottom and top half guard concepts and techniques. The position is so fundamental in all aspects of training that I find it best for teaching in the large groups often seen at camp. This is even true for my favorite half guard class to teach – Octopus Half Guard.

Anything else you want to add to your profile: I know it goes without saying, but Platinum BJJ in London Ontario is the most welcoming academy in the area. If you’re ever in our neck of the woods, please drop by for a class or our famous open mat. All are welcome!