Dedication Pays Off for Tony Reel

 

About two months ago, long time GR member Tony Reel had a major disappointment.  When Relson Gracie visited GR, he administered belt testing for several members.  Tony was trying for his Black Belt.  Master Gracie felt there were one or two details in Tony's technique that needed polishing before the belt could be awarded.  Rather than dwell on his disappointment and let it turn into useless anger, Tony doubled down on his training and made the suggested adjustments.  This is how progress is made.

In April he broadened his exposure to new technique with a trip to Miami for the Rickson Gracie seminar.  On May 3rd you could find Tony on the mat at the Rodrigo Medeiros Seminar.  May 11th  Tony traveled to Pennsylvania with GR's BJJ coach, Jeff  Starr and he was retested by Relson Gracie.  His hard work paid off and Tony is GR's newest Black Belt.

Congratulations Tony, your dedication is a lesson for all of us.

Written by: Bob Donaghy

Gracie Seminar and More Belt Promotions!

With only a week's notice the attendance at the Relson Gracie seminar last Saturday was still impressive.  Over a dozen hard core BJJ practitioners showed up to receive instruction from Master Gracie.

After the seminar both of GR's Steve Hetzel and Dan Vandevender were promoted to Purple Belt, and Jeff Starr was awarded a stripe on his Black Belt. Tony Reel tested for his Black Belt, and Relson felt he needed to review/work on his timing for some of the self defense techniques.  At GR we support our students, and we do things the right way.  Tony will complete his review, re-test in a few months and get the belt he's earned.

Written by: Bob Donaghy

Four More Belt Promotions at GriffonRawl

Last Sunday after the seminar, and before dinner, Master Relson Gracie promoted five GriffonRawl members another level in belt rank.

Phil Schenk & Donny Walker were promoted to Purple Belts and GR assistant Jiu-Jitsu Instructor Paul Rehbergar and GR Owner Jason Dent were elevated to Brown Belts.  When you see Phil, Donny, Paul and Jason, be sure to congratulate them on their hard work and achievement.

It's been a great Summer for promotions at GriffonRawl.  Showing up to class and doing the work pays off!

Written by: Bob Donaghy

Another Great Gracie Seminar is in the Books

Relson Gracie returned to GriffonRawl last Saturday for another great seminar.  This is his first visit to GriffonRawl since Head Jiu-Jitsu Instructor Jeff Starr was awarded his Black Belt.  Eighteen attended the two hour session.  It was good to see one or two members who have been absent for too long.

Master Gracie opened with self defense techniques and ended with material any pro fighter would want to have in their arsenal. 

Following the seminar part of the group headed to Cleats in Mentor for some grub and hung out.

Written by: Bob Donaghy

Relson Gracie Seminar a Success

On January 20th Master Relson Gracie visited GR for a second time to deliver a seminar.  This one was a successful and memorable as the first.  In all 19 students benefited from his teaching over 3 hours, and all advanced their game.

GR brings in master teachers like Relson Gracie to expose it's students to advanced techniques not otherwise available without travel.  It's a good idea to take advantage of the opportunity when it's available.

At the end of the seminar 3 GR students, Jason Dent, TonyReel and Paul Rehbergar were all advanced in belt rank.  Congratulations to all three.  Details to follow.



Written by: Bob Donaghy