ClubSportsWeekly

Jiu-Jitsu club performs well at U.S. Nationals

By Brad Hoffman

For the Daily

Entering U.S. Nationals last weekend in Columbus, things were looking bleak for the Michigan's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu club. With five members of the competitive team unable to perform due to injury, it were reduced to sending its three youngest fighters to compete in one of the most prestigious Jiu-Jitsu tournaments.

With this in mind, the team had to be satisfied with the outcome of its matches. All three fighters received medals in their respective divisions, quite an accomplishment, since there were competitors representing places all across America, Brazil and Japan.

"The United States does not have the pedigree in Jiu-Jitsu that other countries do," club president Francis Garcia said. "They bring a big contingent of fighters, all of whom are very skilled."

A match may end in numerous ways. A fighter can submit, win on points or the six-minute time limit can expire. All Michigan's victories came on submissions or by the mercy rule, which occurs when a fighter has a 12-point lead.

Sophomore Cooper Holoweski, who competed in the lightweight division, cruised through his matches, only to lose in the finals to a fighter from Hawaii by a submission armbar technique (hyperextending an opponent's arm).

"It was his hard work, dedication, and intense summer training that allowed him to better himself as a fighter," Garcia said. "This has really become evident throughout the season."

Freshman Matt Jubera also competed in the lightweight division, receiving the bronze medal. Coincidentally, Jubera was also defeated by the same Hawaiian fighter, losing on points.

In the light-heavyweight division, sophomore Rob Linn, who earned a spot on the competitive team by winning the first annual Michigan In-House Tournament, also received a silver medal.

"This was definitely a step up for us. We can use nationals as a gauge for our next tournament," Garcia said.

Their progress will be determined quickly, as the club's next tournament is the U.S. Open this weekend in Santa Cruz, Calif.

Coach Marcio Corleta, Garcia, session leader Rodrigo Nunes, along with competitors David O'Hara and Evan Locey were all unable to compete in nationals. Their return to action will be pivotal for the team.

Corleta, who does not attend Michigan but still coaches and competes with the team, is the reigning Pan-American and World champion. He severely sprained his ankle while fighting in Brazil a week prior to nationals and his return is questionable.