Jan 22, 2009 by Marine Corps News

Marine Jiu Jitsu Team to Compete in State Competition

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- The windows were fogged with sweat from dedication and exhaustion. Loud thuds from bodies slamming against a foam mat were followed by grunts and groans startling Marines passing by. They all knew what was taking place beyond the fogged-glass door, but only the ones with heart and desire dared to take part.

Staff Sgt. Adam R. O'Malley, a Marine Corps Martial Arts Program instructor from Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, and Sgt. Christopher Siburt, a mechanic from General Support Motor Transport Company, CLR-2, recently decided to take their passion for MCMAP and all other mixed martial arts to a new level by starting a Jiu Jiutsu team.

The team of 11 Marines, formed more than one month ago, plans to compete in a Virginia competition put on by the North American Grappling Association in King Williams, Va. in February.

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"I wanted to do something with the Marines to further their knowledge of martial arts," O'Malley said. "In MCMAP, you learn a basic understanding of martial arts, but when you incorporate Jiu Jitsu, you learn new ways to dominate your opponent."

O'Malley has been a MCMAP instructor for four out of the program's eight years in existence. He said the program is designed to teach Marines hand-to-hand and close quarters combat techniques, as well as mental and character development.

The Cleveland native, who has practiced mixed martial arts for the past four years, said Jiu Jitsu means "the gentle art" or "the gentle science." He added that the art requires mental strength and focuses on using an opponent's force and energy against them.

The martial arts veteran competes in many martial arts competitions. He has worked hard to both physically and mentally prepare himself and his fellow Marines for the upcoming competition.

"On a normal day, we train for two hours," he said. "On a good day, we train for more than two. We try and get in as much training as possible. Every minute counts."

The team started at the regimental level, but is now expanding throughout the entire logistics group as word spreads and interests expand to other units.

Pfc. Melissa Rodriguez, a supply clerk from CLR-2, joined the team more than one month ago and plans to travel to Virginia to compete next month. She said she trains five days a week, spending hours on the mat each day.

"I'm really nervous about the competition because there are going to be people there that have been doing this for years," said the Gurnee, Ill. native after practicing, Jan. 21.

O'Malley said the team is progressing quickly as they prepare for the competition.

"Competing is just another way for the Marines to test their abilities," He said. "The overall training teaches the Marines a way to stay physically fit and a new level of discipline."

As time passes by the team will continue to train and prepare for the competition in hopes of achieving victory.

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