Emily began her Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey in 2018 at Lepri BJJ in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, under Professor Paulo Santana while completing her graduate degree at Wake Forest University.  A former Division I college rugby athlete with childhood experience in ice hockey, box lacrosse, wrestling, and dance, her then-boyfriend and now-husband encouraged her to try jiu jitsu with him, knowing she’d be drawn to the contact and intensity. She immediately connected with BJJ finding it to be a challenging, cerebral, and fun outlet.  She’s been training ever since.

In 2022, Emily moved to Charlotte and began training at Lepri Headquarters, where she is now a brown belt under Professor Lucas Lepri. She helps coach the kids' and women's programs and is excited to serve as a role model for young girls and women as part of the Lepri BJJ coaching staff.

As a competitor, Emily has podiumed at multiple IBJJF and other tournaments from white through purple belt. Emily enjoys training and learning alongside her husband, teammates, friends, and coaches and getting to share the mats with an inspiring and welcoming community.