The Gorilla Press, Issue 85

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“You Need To Be Punched In The Face”

The provocative title comes from Paul Sharp’s latest blog post. In it, he addresses the need to constantly test ourselves when it comes to our chosen martial art. Far from being a threat or show of bravado, Paul Sharp offers wise advice in keeping with the fundamental principle of Aliveness that was born with the creation of SBG. The need to be constantly testing the skills you are learning against resistance is the only true way to improve in a real and functional way. As Paul says, there really is no other way. “We can delude ourselves… thinking untested skill equates to actual skill or we can test ourselves regularly and KNOW our capabilities”. Not one to condone willingly taking punches to the head, Paul Sharp’s point is that the same holds true for any activity that involves opposing wills, not just boxing, but BJJ, wrestling and judo. Paul Sharp is a BJJ black belt, as well as a long time law enforcement professional, and a leading trainer in self defense and weapons training. Definitely check out his blog, and look out for his next seminar dates. Sharp often tours SBG facilities and external venues, offering in depth classes on Multi-Discipline Self Protection; seminars unlike any other you will find in the SBG universe!

His idea fits in perfectly with a recent post by SBG Athens Head Coach, Rory Singer, who said this about the training at the SBG Athens gym:

“In a room full of people where you can feel comfortable being vulnerable is when you learn what works and what doesn’t. Don’t let another gym tell you what they do is self defense while what others do is solely for sport. What we do at #SBGAthens is applicable to all situations because it’s grounded in the fundamentals every person should have, regardless the environment: Gi, No Gi, MMA, and Self Defense. As coaches Adam and Paul are known to say, “If you can’t beat me with rules, what makes you think you can beat me without them?” Warriors bring your MMA gloves tonight for the first Thursday of the month. This is #SBG, you will be okay.”

John Kavanagh on BJJ

kavbjjStraight Blast Gym of Montana had these words from John Kavanagh to share on Facebook. Coach Kavanagh speaks most about BJJ but also about the approach SBG takes to nurturing its students. About not seeking to eliminate the weak and focus on the few strong athletes and make them stronger, but to turn the weak into athletes in their own right:

“Jiu Jitsu is so much more than competitions, belts or even self defense. Jiu Jitsu transforms people in ways no other activity can. At SBG we aren’t looking to weed out the weak or polish diamonds. We are in the business of strengthening the weak and turning coal into diamonds. Our product is transformation.”

One of the greatest features of any SBG academy is that its classes are attended by students of all different ages, body types and athletic ability. The SBG approach to coaching, and the focus on fundamentals, allows for all students to learn in an inclusive environment that doesn’t discriminate based on size and strength.

SBG’s ITP courses taking place again!

itpOne of the unique things about SBG is the incredible level of coaching quality regardless of location in the world. The thing that has allowed SBG to reach and maintain such a high and consistent standard is the ever-improving instructor training program. SBG Vice President Travis Davison, who has been consistently at the forefront of developing both the adult and Growing Gorillas programs across the organization, recently took the coaching course to SBG Idaho. Meanwhile, another installment of the ITP Level 1 program is about to kick off this month at SBG Portland. If you have any interest in coaching, want a personal challenge to help boost your public speaking confidence, or want to learn more about what makes SBG’s approach work, don’t miss the chance to get involved in one of these programs. Ask at your SBG about future dates!

stellagrowinggorillasThe Davison trip to Idaho wasn’t solely for the ITP course. Alongside that, Travis, and daughter and SBG BJJ blue belt, Stella Davison, kick started the Growing Gorillas program there. Growing Gorillas is  SBG’s cutting edge kids program that has made huge waves at every SBG location it has been a part of. Not only is it a great opportunity for kids to exercise, learn a martial art, and develop an excellent set of life skills, it also ensures that the future of SBG will only get more impressive. We can’t wait to see what future champions come out of the ever-expanding program!

The New SBG Video Podcast

sbgpodcastIn case you missed it, last month saw the release of Straight Blast Gym’s first ever video podcast! SBG will be putting out a monthly video podcast on a wide range of topics, covering everything under the SBG banner, and what goes into to creation and running of this amazing, global martial arts organization! The first episode covered an essential topic to anyone that is part of SBG; Tribe. SBG Founder Matt Thornton, along with some of SBG’s most experienced coaches and athletes, discuss what the idea of ‘tribe’ means to them, how they found it here at SBG, and why it makes SBG so special. Check it out here!

mattkarlicelandThe podcast had an immediate and dramatic effect on SBG’s members. Rich Beaupit has this to say:

“I just finished watching the whole SBG podcast, and while watching it I was either laughing, smiling, or had some tears. I don’t think it could have been made any better. It is a privilege to be a part of such an amazing Tribe. I cannot wait to see everyone at Spring Camp, and want to say THANK YOU ALL for your friendship!”

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Matt Thornton kicks off seminar tour at SBG Burien

And SBG Athens Head Coach Rory Singer said:

“I finally got around to listening to this podcast in its entirety. I have trained a lot of martial arts, in a lot of gyms, all over the world. I have a lot of students that have found us after training elsewhere. One thing I can say with 100% certainty is that there is no better martial arts organization anywhere in the universe. I am so grateful that Adam and I found Matt Thornton and #SBG. Through SBG I found my best friends, my passion to help others, my tribe, and my family. Thank you to everyone that continues to support #SBGAthens both as a present member or from afar. The future looks great.”

Matt Thornton on the BJJ Brick Podcast

cropped-Banner2SBG Founder and Head Coach Matt Thornton took to the airwaves again last month, this time returning to the BJJ Brick podcast. On the show, Matt was asked for, and imparted, valuable advice for white and blue belts. Likely to be one of BJJ Brick’s most downloaded shows ever, Matt is one of six high level black belts asked to share their wisdom on students early in their BJJ journey.  He answers such fascinating questions as:

  1. Do you have requirements for a blue belt? What are they?
  2. How important is it for students to be able to “defend” their belt?
  3. How many intangibles (good teammate, good effort, helps others) come into play when promoting someone to blue belt?
  4. Do you ever regret giving someone a blue belt?
  5. What advice to you have for the new blue belt?

For anyone beginning BJJ, looking to improve, or just wanting to understand the thinking behind one of the world’s best BJJ coaches, definitely give the podcast a listen.

Quote from Paul Sharp

The people I trust the most are people that have at some point lost everything or almost everything. They’ve experienced a few tragedies and emerged stronger. They appreciate life’s tempering process, it toughens them while taking off the rough edges. When they see it happening to others they know to not judge too quickly. Going through something isn’t an indictment of our character, how we emerge at the end though, says a lot about our character.

Amanda Diggins Talks About Her Europe Tour

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Last month Amanda Diggins returned from her trip to Europe. There, Amanda and her husband, fellow BJJ black belt John Diggins, competed in the IBJJF European Open, then went on a seminar tour of the UK. Despite her disappointment in the way she performed at the European Open, she took it in stride and learned from the experience. She personifies the SBG motto of “Win or Learn”, and is a constant inspiration to all the students and team mates who look up to her. It’s great to have you back in Portland, Amanda!

“This trip taught me so much.
The European Championships in Portugal could have gone better, but it still shows how much mental work I have left to do. Yes, I’m disappointed but I am so grateful for the opportunity to compete.
Following the tournament John and I had the privilege of teaching multiple seminars in the U.K. This wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity, organization and support of Coach Karl Tanswell and his wife Ella. Spending time with you guys was an absolute treat. We look up to you so much and are blown away by what you’ve created at the gym, and the dedication to your students.
Before, during and after competing I was thinking about my training. How would I train during my time in 16508963_1600995246593742_6686420886421470702_nEurope, and how I wanted people to perceive me. Before we landed in Manchester I battled with my body and my ego. I realized that if I wanted my body to stay intact, I would need to completely forgo my ego. This was/is incredibly hard for me to do. In my mind I’m thinking ‘I’m a blackbelt, a Matt Thornton SBG blackbelt. I am expected to impress and roll well. If I don’t do that, then people will be disappointed in my jiu-jitsu.’ I’m not here to impress anyone. I’m here to be the best coach I can be. Instead of fighting hard, I played all of the ‘worst’ positions you could think of and enjoyed it. If someone wanted to pass my guard, so be it. It turned in to a very enjoyable process. It taught me to let go. Sometimes what WE want, isn’t what’s necessary for improvement. I got to ‘listen’ to a lot of people while I was on bottom, and I’m thankful for every uncomfortable position I was in.
Thank you to each and every coach and student that welcomed us into your home and gym. It’s hard to put into words how appreciative we are. I’m hoping that we can return to your beautiful countries and cities, and explore new ones. This is just the beginning of a new year, and I’m excited for new opportunities. This is SBG, you’ll be ok.”

A Stoic Moment

marcus-aurelius-4-640x320At every moment keep a sturdy mind on the task at hand, as a Roman and a human being, doing it with strict and simple dignity, affection, freedom, and justice – giving yourself a break from all other considerations. You can do this if you approach each task as if it is your last, giving up every distraction, emotional subversion of reason, and all drama, vanity, and complaint over your fair share.

               – Marcus Aurelius

Keep this thought handy when you feel a fit of rage coming on – it isn’t manly to be enraged. Rather, gentleness and civility are more human, and therefore manlier. A real man doesn’t give way to anger and discontent, and such a person has strength, courage, and endurance – unlike the angry and complaining.

The nearer a man comes to a calm mind, the closer he is to strength.

– Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, 11.18.5b

Visitors to SBG Nevada

16507850_10212490191919099_6307934863345459294_nThe SBG in Elko, Nevada received some impressive guests this month. BJJ black belt Ray Price welcomed the SBG legend that is John Frankl, who was on a seminar tour that also included the SBG HQ of Portland. The tour also included a visit to Rob Wolf; a former research biochemist, health expert, and author of the New York Times bestselling The Paleo Solution. The two represent huge parts of a long and healthy life, with SBG Korea’s John Frankl constantly demonstrating some of the smoothest and effortless BJJ in the world, and Rob Wolf outlining the importance of a healthy diet. SBG Elko, Nevada was fortunate to have them both stop by!

SBG PDX & Wimp2Warrior On TV

ea3922d1-9e28-47ea-9003-d8ef14087fc9-large16x9_ArmBarThis month the hype for the US debut of the Wimp2Warrior reached new levels, as SBG Portland featured on morning news! Head Coach Matt Thornton, manager Zach Thornton, and coach Amanda Diggins each featured in a couple of segments covering the upcoming challenge. The first of its kind in America, Wimp2Warrior has been a huge success in Australia, the UK and Ireland. It takes regular individuals with no previous fighting experience, and over the course of six months, puts them through an intensive training schedule to prepare them for an MMA fight. It’s focus is less on the ability to give and receive punishment, and more on challenging oneself to reach levels of physical and mental fitness that make people true warriors. SBG Portland is excited to have been chosen to host the debut program.

Rickson Gracie Coming to Portland


Yes, you read that right! The legendary Rickson Gracie is making his way to Portland for an incredibly rare seminar on April 30th. By the time you read this, the seminar will likely have been sold out, because whenever the opportunity to learn from him is presented, it is snapped up immediately. But just in case, contact Zach Thornton at the SBG Portland gym immediately if interested. Seriously, drop what you’re doing and try and get to the seminar! As Matt Thornton put it when rhetorically asking if the seminar was worth the money, this is the BJJ equivalent of a two hour lesson in basketball from Michael Jordan! How much would you pay!? Rickson rarely hosts seminars any more, so this may well be a once-in-a-lifetime chance! Don’t miss out!

 

Paul Craig Speaks Out Against Bullies

20161216_0125_Paul_Craig.0.0Scottish MMA pro Paul “The Bear Jew” Craig spoke out last month against bullying after watching footage of a young local boy being assaulted outside his old school. Reminding him of tough times growing up, Craig, who trains with the Scottish Hit Squad gym, and who will compete at UFC 209 this weekend, invited the youngster to begin his own journey through martial arts.

“I really want to be able to have a chat with the kid and have him come to the gym… It’s not anything about learning to fight, it’s a real confidence building thing, or at least that’s what it was for me… You can get a really great group of friends around you, and start talking… When I found MMA the discipline and respect you learn really helped me.”

Matt Thornton shared the story. It is another great example of MMA having the potential to change lives for the better, contrary to uneducated opinion. Best of luck and skill to Paul Craig in his bout this weekend!

Coach Cane Prevost on Matt Thornton & Fundamentals

14581451_10155297196789128_8262902170702671758_nCoach Cane Prevost is one of SBG’s most respected coaches. He is constantly working to simplify BJJ. He identifies patterns and rules that allow students of all ages and shapes a road to black belt through a focus on fundamentals. This month he took to Facebook to compliment his own coach, Matt Thornton, on one of his classes:

“Great fundamentals class tonight with Coach Matt Thornton. What some would consider beginner level mount top details were either completely new or good reminders. It was nothing fancy but my 30+ years in martial arts allowed me to see right away that what I was learning was the root of what makes holding mount possible.

Why does everyone have a yellow ballon in their hands? Because coach Cane just used these teaching aids to drop some shoulder of justice knowledge you won't find outside SBG. - Matt Thornton

Why does everyone have a yellow balloon in their hands? Because coach Cane just used these teaching aids to drop some shoulder of justice knowledge you won’t find outside SBG. – Matt Thornton

In short, everything. I know if he had a room full of black belts he would have taught the exact same stuff. And, the smart ones in the room would be extremely grateful. Love my tribe.”

A long-time BJJ black belt celebrating the learning of ever-clearer fundamental BJJ… Another example of what separates SBG from the rest.

Coach Cane himself just wrote a new post for his amazing blog. In it, he outlines the concept he refers to as “Relaxion”. Relaxion is the combination of Relaxation and Connection, and he discusses how it plays a vital role in all top positions in BJJ. It is a simple and effective way to save energy, feel the moves of your opponent, shorten reaction times and increase how heavy you feel. It is yet another game changing concept from Coach Cane. Be sure to read all about it!

Matt Inman Loses At Cage Warriors

16681516_347921982267982_3347405653005765633_nLast month, SBG Manchester’s Matt Inman took on Karl Amoussou in an exciting title fight for the Cage Warriors welterweight belt. At one of the UK’s biggest venues, the O2 Arena in London, Inman lost by TKO in the first round. It is an unfortunate set back after an incredible 2016 for the SBG athlete, but in true SBG style, Matt didn’t let the loss get the best of him. After the contest, Matt took to Facebook to share that despite the result, he couldn’t be more content with his preparation and his team. Congratulations for stepping up and taking on such a huge test of your skill, Matt! The whole tribe is proud of you!

“Huge thanks for the support. I put so much into the preparation for this fight that my only true disappointment is I didn’t get to show the improvements I made.
Congratulations to Karl Amoussou, he’s a hell of a fighter.
Special thanks to my sponsors #iloveMCR #ARCAfrica #PLCivilEngineering#ExpressEstateAgency #CurraghroeConstruction #VolvereClothing#AttolloSolutions #HarbelleMedicalSolutions

SBG Montana At Kids Pan Ams

16864326_10210397016419702_7849736868292237964_nAlways leading the way in kids BJJ, SBG Montana sent a huge crew of youngsters down to California to compete in the annual Kids Pan Ams. A team of 19 represented SBG, and is testament to the incredible work of the Growing Gorillas program. The program was started by Travis & Kisa Davison and they have worked tirelessly to turn the program into the international success it is today. The SBG Montana kids are at the forefront of what a well-structured kids program can produce – not just great young athletes, but good and responsible little humans who the tribe can be proud of. Good job, kids!

“Headed to California for kids Pan Ams. I am looking forward to some great matches and I can’t wait to see SBG kids from all over the country do their thing.
Viva SBG!” – Travis Davison

Veta Arteaga Wins At Bellator 172

16649034_10155172686504548_8163050936130777150_nSBG Idaho’s Veta Arteaga extended her impressive start to professional MMA with her first win of 2017, last month. After winning two of her three pro fights last year, she returned to her winning ways in February with a TKO victory due to doctor’s stoppage against Brooke Mayo. She is the latest in an impressive line of pro MMA fighters to come out of SBG Idaho, including Jessie Brock and Scott Thometz. 2017 promises to be a really exciting year for Veta, and the whole tribe will be watching in eager anticipation! Congratulations to Veta & the whole SBG Idaho team on the win!

Chris Conolley Heads to SBG Idaho

Connolly_flyerAs if the striking prowess of SBG Idaho’s athletes weren’t already impressive enough, given Veta’s win, SBG Alabama’s Head Coach, Chris Conolley, is heading to SBG Idaho to give a striking seminar! Coach Conolley has coached numerous athletes in the highest levels of MMA, in the UFC and Bellator. In three weeks, Coach Conolley will be bringing his knowledge of the striking arts to Boise, Idaho for a seminar on March 4-5! Sign up now and don’t miss out on an opportunity to learn from one of the top striking coaches in the organization.

James Gallagher Wins At Bellator 173

gallagherJust last year he was one of the most exciting prospects to ever come out of SBG Ireland, and already he is knocking on the door of a Bellator title shot. Last week, James “The Strabanimal” Gallagher destroyed his third Bellator opponent, extending his perfect record to 6-0. Gallagher made light work of Kirill Medvedovsky, submitting the Israeli within three minutes of the first round. It is his fifth victory by way of choke, with just one fight ever going the distance. At just twenty years old, and six fights into his pro career, James Gallagher continues to make huge waves. Only time will tell how far he will continue to progress, but as far as he’s concerned, he’s aiming to be the best of all time! Congratulations James and the whole SBG Ireland team on another outstanding performance!

Hai Lee Wins Amateur Debut

16998201_1401211056618725_7200485702760894790_nSBG Niagara’s Hai Lee was the latest Straight Blast Gym athlete to chalk up a mark in the win column. Securing a comfortable victory after two rounds last week. His win came in brutal fashion, with his opponent unable to answer the bell for the third round after suffering a number of knees to the body in the earlier rounds. The win is the latest in a strong run of successful fights by SBG athletes from Niagara, Scarborough and Toronto, showcasing their talents as they prepare to host the upcoming SBG Spring Camp. Congratulations to Hai Lee on his impressive win!

SBG Niagara Head Coach, Rich Beaupit:

Hai Lee wins his Amateur MMA debut in stunning fashion. After multiple knees to the body his opponent couldn’t answer the bell for Round 3.
Hell yeah. I told you we would take care of business.
#SBG #TCB

Sign Up for Spring Camp in Niagara

16864331_10210461301866798_1779342051751516121_nThe sad news is, you just missed the deadline for discounted early registration for this years SBG Spring Camp in Niagara. But despair not! There is still availability to sign up for the camp at the regular price. Hosted jointly by the SBG teams at SBG Niagara, Scarborough & Toronto, it will be held at SBG Niagara from March 31 – April 2. SBG Spring Camps are always incredible events, packed with the highest level of BJJ, MMA and self defense coaching, and elite martial arts minds all willing to train and share ideas with each other. If you have never been, they truly are unique and special occasions. SBG members can now sign up for $342, for three full days of learning. Sign up now at sbgcamps.com

Brad Kelly’s Thoughts On His 1st Sub Only Tournament

17021508_10155327207835579_3678943298616246038_n“Well there it goes, my first submission only tournament. I have been here numerous times as a spectator but never on the mats. Many said I looked calm and composed but it was the most nerve racking tournament in recent memory.

So much on the mind so maybe I’ll go in order…
Was a little worried about an injury I picked up earlier in the week. Understanding teammates allowed me extra mat time when it felt better and light training during rehab. Thank you to coach Robbie Jaggard and coach Nick, Justus Kennedy, Shelby Girard and Lucas Winter during that time. Coach Nick MacLeod setup a great class Friday, which was so functional that I was able to use it several times in the tourney. Lucas supplied awesome additional details.

Jacob Daly setup the day with a meme about us all going to war together. It’s strange how the little things put the big picture in perspective. I was further amped up by messages from my soccer brothers, friends, and Dawn Kratzer. My coach Bill Campbell for his words the night before which I don’t think he knows how inspirational they actually were. Even the drive in seeing the SBG vehicles and knowing they are going in to support you.

Being one of the last competitors of the day, I got to watch my “tribemates” and get motivated by their results and efforts. When it was finally time, knowing what guys like Brent Trombley and Brad Jordan were going through for their first tournament helped me up my game. I nearly burnt my grips out in the first match but Jake supplied me with extra water between his matches.

The coaching from the corner this tourney was spot on. Coach Bill with his stand-up reminder on my hand position, Levi Girard identifying the hand in the armpit, Shelby with her reassuring demeanor, and the collective detail to grab the wrist for one of my finishes. It is extra rewarding to be at a level where I can start to be able to execute the coaches commands. I feel it helps them truly be a part of the athletes battle, really connecting them to that moment, and allowing them the pride they so deserve knowing they’ve helped shape that individuals path.

Big thank you to the spectators who braved the roads to watch us all. You were so loud when I got the one arm bar and I am so sorry I didn’t acknowledge you in the moment. SBGYEG – you guys are more and more part of my journey, and your brief talks with me or handshakes are more meaningful than you know. Cory Wachter for being so approachable and awesome, and Steve Winjet for shaping such beauties. This sport, this martial art, is so much more. I also made a friend from a competitor this weekend in Neil Chand and hope nothing but the best for his future.

Of course I don’t like being submitted in tournaments, and it cost me gold this time, but I have learnt something from every tournament submission I’ve been in. I will be taking away yet another tidbit of information from this weekend because of it. I can’t say for certain if I will be happy with a gold medal, when/if it happens, if it didn’t allow me to learn as much on that given day. Thank you to coach Travis Davison and coach Matt Thornton for quality quality quality. Wearing three simple letters on your gi makes you feel a little badass.

And last and most, my endearing wife Trina Kelly for her sacrifices, support, and vibes. I know when I’m rolling I look towards my coaches, but my eyes always try to catch a glimpse of you as they trail back to the action.

Is it the next tournament yet?

This is SBG, you will be okay.

#onetribeonevibe

How To Approach Life – by Conor McGregor

mcgregor2“How to approach life – by @thenotoriousmma

Of the 100,000s pics I’ve seen this one sums it up best. Tough 1st round, blood splattered, one leg not working….but still there. “Ok you got me there…but I ain’t done.”
You’re going to have losses, you’re going to fail….it’s what you do with those losses that counts. Are you going to quit? Or are you going to smile, beckon life on and become a world champion. Sorry – 2 weight world champion. Twice.”

Mike Greene Wins in MMA & BJJ

unnamedSBG Buford’s Mike Greene got off to winning ways in his first ever amateur MMA bout. Taking on Jermonte “Death” Brown of Demonic Hitters MMA, Mike Greene put aside the hype and was dominant throughout, mounting his opponent in the first round, finding his way to Brown’s back in the second, and spending the majority of the final round in mount again. Greene won by a dominant score of 30-24, 30-25, 30-25.

Not content with his MMA debut victory, Mike went on to compete at the Atlanta Winter International Open, and secure gold in the blue belt, featherweight division. Congratulations to Mike on an impressive February! Keep up the great work!

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Happy Anniversary To Travis & Kisa Davison!

16508890_10154543509678992_8445760654179572485_nHappy 18th anniversary to the co-founders of SBG Montana & the Yoga Room, Travis & Kisa Davison. Their story is truly inspiring, and the work they have done over the years has had a huge impact on the SBG universe! Everyone at SBG owes them a lot of gratitude. Congratulations to the Davisons!

“It’s been 18 years since this man agreed to spend the rest of his life with me. So far, we’re both still alive and happier than I ever imagined. I would say it’s been easy, but that wouldn’t be true. We’ve fought tooth and nail to preserve and grow our marriage. Good news. We’re winning. As if there was another option… 😜

Happy anniversary, Travie Poo! You are the cat’s pajamas!” – Kisa Davison

Blast From The Past


 

Check out this video from back in 2013, where SBG East Coast’s Stephen Whittier sits down with SBG Norcal’s Lily Pagle. Lily is legendary amongst the SBG tribe. She is not only the founder of SBG Norcal, but Matt Thorton’s first female BJJ black belt, earning that recognition at the age of 60. Her unique story has led to her being fascinating to many younger students, and others hoping to reach and stay at the highest levels of fitness as they age. The hosts of last year’s Fall Camp, SBG Norcal is an exceptional academy and a testament to Lily’s amazing achievements.

 


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