Submission grappling is a non-striking, close quarters, combat type sport that involves clinches, sweeps, throws and more; all to take an opponent to the ground and, ultimately, have them submit.
Highly technical, physical and with equal emphasis on both offence and defence, grappling “is very similar to jiu-jitsu with the difference being, jiu-jitsu is usually done in a gi (traditional jiu-jitsu attire),” says Sergeant Natasha Darch-Wills, a member of 14 Wing Greenwood’s Submission Grappling Team.
The two disciplines are similar in nature, making it an ideal sporting option for those with a background in jiu-jitsu or other martial arts disciplines. However, “any military member, regardless of experience, is welcome to come out,” Darch-Wills says.
The 14 Wing Greenwood grappling team competes annually at the Atlantic regionals in Shearwater. Training once or multiple times a week (depending on schedules), members of the team prepare with one another, exchanging insights, tips, techniques and more.
“I love the thrill of getting on the mats,” Darch-Wills says, who has now won three competitions. “I learn so much on self-defence and how much my body can take and do.”
It’s “an exhausting, full-body workout – but very rewarding. You’ll be surprised at the ways you gain strength and flexibility.”
Training and competing on the wing’s team helps athletes develop competencies that are then transferrable to other areas.
“I find it empowering to learn how to defend yourself and build up resilience,” says Darch-Wills.
In addition to training with one another, the grappling team’s members also expand their knowledge by inviting guests for seminars, instruction and demonstrations. Most recently, Master Corporal Eric Nevitt, an experienced black belt from 12 Wing Shearwater, provided the 14 Wing team with a seminar that focused on specific ground techniques and tips.
“He was phenomenal,” Darch-Wills says. Having the opportunity to learn from an experienced, high-level black belt holder is something the team enjoyed and benefitted from.
For information on joining the 14 Wing Greenwood Submission Grappling Team, or to come try out the sport for a session, contact Sergeant Natasha Darch-Wills, natasha.darch-wills@forces.gc.ca, or Corporal Aiden St-Laurent, aidan.st-laurent@forces.gc.ca
