My coach, Professor Pete Mchugh, asks me, “How do you feel?” I answer, “I feel great!”
“Great!” says Professor, then quickly adds, “Now remember, stay relaxed. Your going to do great. You are athletic and you know how to move so be sure to keep moving. And remember, have fun. This is Jui Jitsu. So do Jui Jitsu.”
His voice faded echoed in my head as I felt my heart beating fast. I started focusing on my breathing and remembered how I would always feel this way right before I entered the stage when I would do the “Rocky” number in Starlight Express. A little smile came across my face as I embraced the nerves and knew that they were my friend. The referee called me in, and I thought to myself, “It’s show time.”
The months of preparation were over. For the first time ever in a Jiu Jitsu competition I heard my name called. I inhaled deeply and stepped out on to the mat. The ref signaled to shake hands. I looked across at my opponent. He had black gi on, and a determined look on his face. I was in the zone now. Ready to work my plan. Grab first. Take down first. Get side or top mount first. Settle in and maintain my position and look for opportunities to get a submission. While looking for the submission gain points by moving to different positions. Side. Top. Side again. Knee on belly. All the while listening to Professor Pete shout out instructions.
I had been warned of the infamous “adrenaline dump”. However, during my match, I was very aware. I remember being very cognizant of my movement and my position. My ears were fine-tuned to Professor’s voice. I remember listening to, and following as best as possible his directions. I did what I planned to do and before I knew it, my first BJJ match was over and the referee raised my hand in victory. I won by points, 9 to 0.
At 54 years old, I’ve just completed my first tournament and won a gold medal.
What did I learn? In short, I could not have done this without my family, Professor Pete, Coach Tony and all of my team mates at Mchugh Brazilian Jui Jitsu!
