Several local youth participated in a North American Grapplers Association (N.A.G.A) tournament recently and brought home some championships and memories that they won't soon forget. Joey Lujan of J5's Jiu Jitsu/MMA Fitness Center was grinning ear to ear with the performance of his team at that tournament. 'It feels awesome! I love being able to pass down to the next generation of grapplers what I have learned over the last 21 years.' said Lujan. 'We just wanted to compete and put J5 Jiu Jitsu back on the map---all the competitors brought their a games and I couldn't be more proud of all of the participants.'
Lujan added, 'We worked really hard on the techniques needed to compete at the high level+----we have a special program for the competitors and it's more rigorous--I make sure to push the competitors mentally and physically.'
Lujan who received his Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt earlier this year is more eager than ever to share his knowledge and expertise with any who would enter his gym. 'Come on out and try out the amazing art of BJJ,' said Lujan as an open offer to anyone in the community he feels will have an ability. 'We offer a free day trail to anyone.'
Jojo Lujan 12 yrs, 1st place gi (yellow belt) and 1st place no gi (intermediate) Judie Lujan 11 yrs , 2nd place gi (yellow belt) and 2nd place No GI (intermediate) Ellana Marez 6 yrs , 1st place gi (white belt) and 1st place no gi (beginner) Gabriella Tafoya 6 yrs , 2nd place gi (white belt) and 2nd place no gi (beginner) Lexie Court 11 yrs, 1st place gi (white belt) and 1st place no gi (beginner) Miliana Lopez 9 yrs , 2nd place Gi (white belt) and 1st place no gi (beginner) Ignacio Galindo 13 yrs old , 1st place gi (yellow belt) and 1st place no gi (intermediate) Annalee Tafoya 10yrs , 2nd gi (white belt) and 3rd no gi (beginner) Nick Devargas adult 2nd place gi (blue belt)