future talent The Tibesar Family It has been said that the family that plays together stays together. Parents looking for meaningful time to spend together, and their children, can be challenging in this fast-paced and busy world. The importance of bonding and communication along with fun and laughter cannot be discounted. When families find activities that captivate and engage each member of the family, it is sure to bring them all closer together. Adam Tibesar and his family have found what they believe is the perfect activity for themselves and their young children: Martial Arts in the form of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra Oceanside. Gracie Barra prides itself on being family orientated. “Gracie Barra is proud to be a powerhouse with the most stalwart champions of Jiu-Jitsu in the world while still maintaining a training environment that is welcoming for the whole family: men, women, and children. At Gracie Barra, families find marvelous activities through which to spend quality time together.” Staff Sergeant Tibesar and his wife Ryan have traveled the United States and beyond, while he serves in the Marine Corps. Stationed in Okinawa, San Diego, Seattle and now Camp Pendleton, they experience challenges facing most military families. Because military children are often uprooted as they travel from place to place, it is hard to connect and make friends. But Tibesar says his children have found
friends in their new sport and they enjoy a commonality with other children while they practice together. Their three children: MacLain age 9, Bronson age 7, and Everenn 4 ½, are all active in Gracie Barra. Adam and his wife Ryan attended the first classes and felt it was a perfect discipline to introduce to their children. At the first the kids were both nervous and excited about the prospect of learning jiu-jitsu, so the family watched the sport online to familiarize themselves. Prior to Gracie Barra, the Tibesar children had ventured into a variety of sports but nothing “clicked” and seemed a good fit. Intermural sports have a season, but jiu-jitsu can be enjoyed year-round. It is also a simple sport, sustainable for families without a lot of equipment and expense. With everyone wearing a white Gi (the uniform), everyone is equally respected and accepted. Professor Doug is the head trainer at Gracie Barra Oceanside and Tibesar said that he is amazing with kids of all ages and that he has a great demeaner. During the training sessions it may all seem like chaos, but Professor Doug remains calm and collected and teaches young kids with patience. Jiu jitsu is a form of Martial Arts but unlike Karate, it is low impact. Some parents may be concerned about physicality but there is no striking, punching or kicking. The Tibesar’s practice twice a week with Saturday being family day as they practice techniques and games. They enjoy time on the mats and have a daily routine. They have a special spot in their home where continued on page 37
34 | Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Journal
Summer 2021 | www.oceansidechamber.com
