On August 3, 2020, Heath Cooper was promoted to a Guerrilla Jiu Jitsu black belt. His profound journey has left a lasting impact on the martial arts community of Terrebonne and Lafourche Parish. As a dedicated practitioner and mentor, Heath’s contributions to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) in Houma are celebrated by all who trained with him.
From his early days to achieving black belt status, Heath was a model of the virtues of BJJ. He combined technical prowess with a deep passion for teaching. His approach was characterized not just by mastering techniques but by creating an environment where everyone could excel. Known as the ideal training partner, his readiness to share knowledge and encourage others was unmatched.
Heath’s influence on BJJ in Houma was significant. His life was dedicated to improving not only his skills but also those of his partners. He was committed to uplifting the entire community, embodying the true spirit of martial arts: mutual respect, perseverance, and continuous improvement.
The local martial arts community will always remember Heath for his unique ability to inspire and uplift everyone around him. His training sessions became a hub for learning and building friendships. His presence was always welcomed, as he consistently prioritized the needs of his partners.
Today, the BJJ community in Houma strives to uphold the high standards set by Heath. His teachings continue to guide and inspire, pushing practitioners to extend his legacy of kindness, dedication, and excellence. As Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is practiced and promoted in Houma, Heath’s spirit lives on, enriching not just the techniques but also the lives of those he touched.
Heath Cooper’s story is a vivid reminder of how one person can transform a community. His legacy prompts us to recognize the transformative power of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, not only in physical training but also through the values it fosters. For those in Houma beginning or deepening their BJJ journey, Heath’s life proves the incredible impact of commitment and community spirit.
I’ve know Heath since I use to work at his Dad’s golf course with him. Always been a friend. I loved watching him coach my daughter in jui jitsu. You could see his passion, sincerity, and dedication to the practice. He will definitely be missed. Rest in Peace my friend.
Almost 10 years ago, Heath was the first person I ever rolled with on my very first day on the mats, and I think a lot of people can probably say the same. There’s no doubt in my mind that he is the reason most folks came back for a second class. He was a great training partner and friend.
Lets carry Heath with us always. Be like Heath ❤️
Great Words! I had the privilege of knowing and training with Heath since he first started as a White Belt. I also the privilege of training under him after he earned his black belt.
Man, Heath was a gem of a dude. I got to roll with him a solid grip of times when I was a white belt (I believe he was a purple) when he’d come visit Gulf Shores, and let me tell you, it was a real privilege. He very easily could have beaten the crap out of me, but he let me work and showed me alternatives to the mistakes I was making (there many 😂). Plus, he was just a great dude to sit and talk to off the mat. I hope his example continues to influence many young martial artists for generations to come. My prayers are with his family, friends, and the Jiu-Jitsu Community of Louisiana. God Bless!
Heath Paul,
Thank you for those long conversations you had with me during my troubled teen years while I was in and out of jail. Thank you for knocking on my door all those mornings to see if I needed a ride the days you know I didn’t get on the bus and because that I decided to skip school. Thank you for all those hours, days, years you spent teaching me the ground game, how to work a bag, and all those combinations on the mitts at your DoJo you are always a real ninja.🥷 Thank you for teaching me how to do a backflip and how to do a handstand. The morals the spirituality you taught me the during my teenage years I use now in my adult life. My son is a wrestler for Terrebone high school. we practice wrestling on the living room floor. the moves you showed me I am now teaching him. You’ve helped me be a better father. My only regret is never getting the chance to tell you how much of an impact you made on me. I’ll never forget the comic books you drew of Giovanni the vigilante. Thank you, Heath Paul. I wish you would’ve called me so I could’ve tried to help you see things from a different perspective the way you did with me all those years. You are a true friend and the greatest neighbor the teenage me could ever have.
If you’re reading this, call your old friends tell him you love them and ask them how they’re really doing!