In my brief dabbling with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) one thing immediately the one thing that stood out more than anything was the reverence to the martial art by its practitioners. Sure, you could say that about any of the martial arts. Boxers revere boxing, muay thai fighters revere muay thai, but there is a transcendent connection with BJJ and its practitioners. Learning the “gentle art” goes beyond finding new ways to contort another person’s limbs, it’s downright spiritual.
But with this kindred bond comes the healthy dose of reality that is associated with truly mastering BJJ. To put it bluntly, mastering the art of BJJ takes a freaking toll on one’s bank account. With the money you shell out in gym fees, private lessons, Gi purchases, not to mention the exorbitant entry fees and travel expenses associated with competing in various BJJ tournaments throughout the country, and well it all adds up to a budget that leaves only enough dough to put Raman noodles on the dinner table.
All of which is why dedicated BJJ practitioners here in North Texas, well, actually the whole state, should take notice of an innovative solution proposed by Zebra Mats. Zebra Tournament Systems of Texas (ZTS), a long time sponsor of BJJ here in America, has proposed the formation of a ZTS Competition Team. Basically, Zebra Mats will sponsor you in your BJJ endeavors. Perks include: paid entrance fees to tournaments, a sponsored Gi, media exposure via TXMMA.com, and a whole slew of other goodies.
Those interested in this unique opportunity submit the following information:
o Full Name
o Affiliation/Instructor
o Current Belt Rank
o Height/Weight Class
o Personal Biography
o Competition Record/Medals/Awards
o Pictures and/or Video Highlights
o Answer the following question: Why Should Zebra Choose You?
o Provide Your Complete Contact Information/Social Media Links
If you are serious about your BJJ send the above information in an email with ‘ZTS Application – Your Name’ in the subject line to ZTSCompetitionTeam@ gmail.com to be considered. ZTS will be accepting applications until 6:00 PM, January 16, 2011.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
