Bodhi Haywood Discusses Martial Arts in the High Country

Ian Biles, Staff Writer for The Powderhorn 

Bodhi Haywood, a sophomore, has developed a passion for martial arts. He has participated in Muay Thai, Capoeira, Kung-fu, Kali, and currently competes in regional jiu-jitsu competitions in North Carolina and Tennessee. Coming from an athletic background, Haywood finally felt a connection to martial arts unlike any other sport.

“I found out about jiu-jitsu from a friend,” says Haywood.  “It was after I was done playing basketball, and I wanted to try something different. About four years ago, I found myself getting into it.”

Bodhi competes through his dojo, Boondocks, at regional competitions mainly in Tennessee and eastern North Carolina.  He shares that he has found success in these competitions in recent years.  

“I’d say I’ve competed pretty well,” said Haywood. “Most of my medals are gold now. I average a gold or silver at most competitions I go to, so that’s good.”

In his 4 years of competing, Haywood’s favorite memory comes from his most challenging yet exciting tournament where he decided to enter seven separate brackets. 

“Every single one of them were absolutely insane,” says Haywood. “The skill varied between being super difficult and not so difficult.  The most memorable match from that tournament that I had was against a person who was in the same weight class, same skill level. I got steamrolled, which was crazy.”

For students looking to get into jiu-jitsu, Haywood recommends enrolling into his home jiu-jitsu school, Boondocks.

“There are a couple of schools here. I personally mostly go through Boondocks. It’s by the Publix," said Haywood.  "That school is super welcoming, it’s also definitely the cheapest option compared to the others in the area.”