Page 73 - South Mississippi Living - April, 2026

“You see guys who come in as young knuckleheads who just want to learn how to beat people,” he said. “As they become better at the combat—and this may sound crazy— you also see them become softer as people. They’re around families. They’re around kids. They’re around more experienced competitors who have already found success. They grow and they realize what’s actually important.” On the flip side, parents who initially step onto the mat for exercise often discover a competitive spark. Somewhere in the middle, everyone finds balance.
Steel Coast’s youngest students split their time between structured drills and obstacle courses designed to burn energy and build coordination. Some run onto the mats immediately. Others cling to a parent at first, watching before joining in. “A few minutes into class they realize other kids are having fun,” Carlson said. “Then they’re in.”
As the program has grown, so have the friendships. Carlson has watched children from the same schools recognize each other
in class, then form bonds that extend beyond the gym. “You
can already see the life-long bonds being formed,” he said. “It’s pretty cool.”
The gym itself reflects that sense of belonging. Carlson’s wife, Jessica—a former middle school teacher—stepped away from the classroom last year to help run Steel Coast full-time. Their three children practically live at the gym, often curled up on couches tucked behind the front desk between classes. “Jessica’s been a huge part of why this works,” Carlson said. “She understands kids. She understands families. She makes this place run.”
Families linger after training. Parents chat. Kids play. Members stay not just because they’re improving, but because they want
to be there. “If you aren’t there very often, you can’t get good,” Carlson said. “And if you don’t get good, why would you want to keep doing it? It’s cyclical.”
That cycle—welcoming community leading to growth, growth fueling confidence—has helped Steel Coast quickly find its footing. Carlson hopes the next five years will bring expansion along the Coast, with long-term dreams of former students one day opening affiliated locations of their own.
“I’m in my 40s now,” he said. “Twenty years from now, when those kids who are 9 or 10 are running gyms associated with us—that’ll be our thing, our legacy.”
For now, though, the focus remains simple—fun, progress, and a place where students—whether they’re 3 or 62—can step onto the mat and feel like they belong.
Steel Coast Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
3801 25th Ave., Ste. A, Gulfport 228.206.3339 | www.steelcoastbjj.com
Young Warriors Practicing Technique and Focus
Dan Carlson, Owner and Head Gi Coach