A busy Saturday for Team NGMA: grappling, grit and good people
Yesterday, Saturday 31 October, we hosted our in-house grappling show at NGMA in Woolston, Southampton. This one came together a little more last minute than we’d usually like, but it turned into a really fun day of jiu-jitsu. Once we got going, everything ran smoothly, and that’s thanks to the people who came along, stepped up and helped make it happen.
South Coast teams coming together
We had some phenomenal talent on the mats, with fantastic teams and coaches representing the South Coast and the wider grappling community. A huge thank you to all the gyms who supported the show:
Baker Boys BJJ
Thank you for bringing your competitors, giving up your time and helping create such a good atmosphere. Having different teams come together gives everyone a chance to test themselves, meet new people and learn from each other. We really appreciate your support.
Your tickets help keep these events free for competitors
Thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket and came along to watch. It really does help us put on these events and keep them free for competitors, so they don’t have to pay to showcase their skills.
There’s a lot that goes into running a show, even a small one. Your support helps us keep creating opportunities for people to get out there and compete. We hope you enjoyed watching as much as we enjoyed having you here!
Well done to Miro, Dean, Dan and Kas!
A massive well done to our own team, Miro, Dean, Dan and Kas, for stepping up and representing NGMA. Putting yourself out there in front of a crowd takes a lot, and we’re proud of all four of you.
Thank you to Jake for giving up his time to coach the team. Having someone in your corner who knows your game and wants you to do well makes a real difference.
There’s a lot of inspiration coming from our competitive coaches at the minute. More and more of the team are expressing an interest in competing, and it’s lovely to see that confidence growing. Watching the people you train with and learn from take on their own challenges can make you think, ‘Maybe I could have a go at that too.’
The people behind the day
Thank you to everyone who helped before, during and after the show, and to the medics for looking after everyone. All those jobs, big and small, are what allow the day to run smoothly.
A very special mention to Alice, who puts an immense amount of time and effort into these events behind the scenes. Talking with coaches and competitors, sorting matches, creating posters and then refereeing on the day too! There’s so much work that people don’t see, and we’re very grateful for everything she does.
Harry McFarlane at Clash Championship
Away from our mats, Harry McFarlane and the Chanasatru team headed to Clash Championship, where Harry competed for a belt. It was a dramatic fight, with both fighters dropping each other during the bout. Unfortunately, Harry didn’t get the result he wanted this time.
Anyone who trains alongside Harry knows how much work he puts in. A tough result doesn’t take away the hours of training, the commitment or the courage it takes to step into that ring. There will be things to learn from, and the team will be there to work through them with him.
The support doesn’t disappear when the result goes the other way. We’re behind you always, Harry, and we’re looking forward to seeing you build on this experience.
There was also a lovely moment afterwards, with the two fighters showing their respect for each other and sharing home-baked sweets. After a fight like that, seeing them smiling together says a lot about the sportsmanship between them. Congratulations to his opponent, and thank you to Clash Championship for having the team.
A busy Saturday for Team NGMA, and plenty to be proud of. Thank you to everyone who was part of it. If watching has got you thinking about competing, have a chat with your coach. We’d love to help you work towards it.
