Hannette Staack began her Jiu Jitsu career over twenty years ago when Jiu Jitsu was an even more male-dominated sport than it is today. In fact, when she started her training, she wasn't just one of the few females at her academy, she was the only one. Hannette had to train with only men at a time when one could argue Jiu Jitsu was much more aggressive and physical. But Hannette's male teammates soon realized that she was there because she loved the martial art and was just as dedicated as they were.
That love and dedication led Hannette to become one of the most decorated female black belt grapplers in history. Hannette has won every major tournament and is an 8x World Champion, Pan American Champion, and a 3x ADCC Champion. Hannette was inducted into the IBJJF Hall of Fame in 2012 and co-founded Brazil 021 School of Jiu Jitsu that has multiple locations in Brazil, Canada, and the United States.
Hannette has also taken that same dedication she has for Jiu Jitsu and has used it to create programs to empower other women through martial arts and to change the lives of children back in her homeland of Brazil. Along with her professor, business partner, and former husband Andre Terencio, Hannette started the Brazil - 021 Project. This project is dedicated to changing the lives of kids in the "favelas" of Brazil. It provides them with a safe place to train Jiu Jitsu, and its mission is to introduce the sport of Jiu Jitsu to children and young adults at risk. To educate students on the sport and guiding principles in order to develop their spirit, mind, and body. This project has paid for equipment, travel expenses, registration and tournament fees, and has begun academic programs as well.
With all her championships, accolades, and success, Hannette now 42 years old continues to challenge herself and last year announced that she will be soon starting a career in MMA.