Steven Cowan: The Pioneering Force in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Child Development Education in the UK and Europe
USA news March 29, 2025
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NATIONWIDE - MARCH 2025 - Steven Cowan, a 4th-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with over 25 years of experience, stands as one of the most influential figures in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) community, both in the UK and globally. His journey is defined by his pioneering efforts in bringing BJJ to the Norfolk region of the UK, where he has built a world-class academy from the ground up. His influence extends beyond coaching, as he has mentored martial arts schools across the globe, contributing to the growth of the sport and the development of young athletes.Cowan, who was awarded his black belt by renowned world champion Ze Marcello, has had a distinguished competitive career, with multiple IBJJF European Championship silver medals to his name. He has coached several champions, including European and British champions such as Daddy Kabuiku and Luke Platten, proving his expertise in developing world-class athletes.Not only is Cowan a prominent coach, but he also holds the unique title of being the only Pediatric Master Specialist in the UK and Europe, certified by Skillz Worldwide. This rare qualification sets him apart as an expert in child development and martial arts education. Through his child development programs, Cowan has helped martial arts schools, particularly in the United States, implement systems that focus on holistic child development while growing their businesses.In addition to his coaching and mentoring roles, Cowan is an international consultant for martial arts schools, having guided U.S.-based schools via Zoom, helping them implement child development-focused programs. His business acumen is another defining aspect of his career, having successfully built six-figure martial arts schools both for himself and for others.Cowan’s influence has been recognized by global leaders in the martial arts world. He was recently interviewed by Melody Johnson, the founder of Skillz, in front of over 1,500 martial arts school owners and coaches, a significant endorsement of his expertise in the field. His work on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and holistic education was also published in the American Journal of Applied Sciences, further establishing him as an authority on the intersection of martial arts and child development.His academy, Icon Jiu-Jitsu Team Norwich, has become a hub for BJJ excellence, helping to develop numerous champions and creating a legacy that extends beyond his immediate circle. Cowan’s focus on education, retention, and business development has enabled his students and colleagues to thrive, both on the mat and in their careers as martial artists.Looking to the future, Steven Cowan continues to coach, write, and mentor martial artists around the world, shaping the future of the sport through innovation, education, and a focus on child development. His influence is set to grow as he works with more schools and athletes, helping them build sustainable, child development-led programs that prepare the next generation of martial artists for success.For more information about Steven Cowan, his martial arts academy, or his work in child development, visit the following links: