2011 Good Start

I've been told by most coaches, starting a martial art group is tough but rewarding. I have to admit it is tough but nothing outweighs the satisfaction of seeing students make what you teach work for them.
Starting in the fourth term of the year was a gamble but if anything was a good practice run and reality check.

I know now I will need to aggressively promote Guardant Ju-Jutsu as a Martial Arts class. Merely starting a new grappling team and hoping people will join who have shown interest in the past has had average results.

My own training in 2011 has been amazing. Being graded to Green belt in Judo by Maurie Staples was a highlight as was winning the trophy for "Best Technique Seniors" at the club championships for my "Osaekomi" or pinning technique.
I have to give credit and thanks to my friend Bryan for training with me twice sometimes three times a week in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as well as traditional Ju-Jutsu. He has kept it real and kept me honest catching me with a couple of sneaky "Hadaka-jime" or rear naked chokes.

So bring on 2012 whatever it throws at us, zombie apocalypse, burning rain, alien invasion who knows.
One thing is for sure, it will be a big year with plenty of new developments for me and the Guardant Team.

Merry Christmas everyone. Take it easy over the break and be safe so we can all train hard when we come back.