Tracy Koval

Tracy is a BJJ Blue Belt, Krav Maga Yellow Belt, IBJJF National Champion, IBJJF Master Worlds Bronze Medalist, and certified Hero Self Defense, LLC | Mean Girl Project instructor.

Tracy is a Chicago native who has lived most of her adult life in South Carolina and Colorado. A natural entrepreneur, Tracy has spent her career starting and building businesses, mainly in the personal care manufacturing and salon sectors. In 2007, Tracy became very sick with an unknown illness that would progressively get worse over the next decade and a half. In 2021 she finally received a diagnosis of Chronic Lyme Disease, and her life would be forever changed. The illness that nearly killed her has given her a new opportunity at life. Tracy dedicated herself to physical fitness and nutrition and has made a complete 180 from where she was with her illness. In January of 2022, after finally becoming strong enough to incorporate exercise into her healing journey, Tracy discovered Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, which she credits with saving her life in so many ways. Now a dedicated martial artist, Tracy has traveled the world competing in tournaments for the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF), and has medaled twelve times, including becoming a National Champion in June 2022.

Tracy believes that she was kept on this earth to pursue a higher purpose and focuses her energy on transforming women into confident and strong individuals. A survivor of sexual assault and domestic violence, Tracy is uniquely qualified to assist women in their healing journeys. Trauma comes in many forms, and she truly believes there is nothing that can’t be overcome with the right mindset and support. She is living proof of that. Tracy’s passion lies with assisting young women, helping them make healthy and safe choices and steering them towards a life that is both purposeful as well as fulfilling.

Tracy was brought to The Mean Girl Project, Hero Self Defense, LLC and Warrior Forged Project through a connection with Owner and VP of Operations Lindsey Hedlund, who also suffers from Chronic Lyme Disease. Though she is located in the Chicagoland suburbs, Tracy will be spending a portion of her time in central Wisconsin in order to make as widespread an impact as possible. Tracy’s programs are geared towards helping women build confidence and a positive mindset as well as understanding the dangers of today’s world and how women can be proactive in their own safety and protection.

“I believe that I was lead on this journey and brought to this moment in time through divine intervention,” says Tracy. “I have spent a significant amount of time in self-reflection, searching for a new purpose in my life. I believe that I am still here so that I can be a beacon of light for women who need guidance and direction, and I will do anything I can to help steer women where they need to go, no matter where they may be in life.”

When Tracy isn’t training, competing, or mentoring, she lives an active outdoor lifestyle. Fishing is her favorite thing, along with basically anything outdoors, including archery, kayaking, camping, hiking, ice skating, and horseback riding.

Look for Tracy’s classes in Naperville, Illinois, as well as Madison, Wisconsin!