Mixed martial artists grapple for fun

By DESMOND LAWE

With an increase in mixed martial arts popularity in the last few years, several combat sport clubs have popped up on campus. While these groups are far short of the Ultimate Fighting Championship you may see on TV, they provide many benefits to their members free from membership dues.

“In my opinion, grapplers are the strongest people in the world,” said Steve Putnam, president of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu club and senior geography major. “They are stronger than football players.”

Group members have varying levels of experience from absolute beginners to those who have been practicing for five years or more. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu could also be called a grapple submission sport as it offers training in throws, arm and leg locks and chokes. It was developed by the Gracie family in Brazil, who brought it to America and turned Jiu-Jitsu into a competitive sport. Members of the NIU Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu club participate in numerous competitions throughout the Midwest.

Putnam took over the club almost two years ago and said anyone is welcome to join.

“You can’t expect to win your first night,” Putnam said. “But if you show up consistently, you will get better and win.”

Jennifer Dittmann, founder and president of the NIU Kodokan Judo club, gets something besides competition from her club’s training.

“I’m a 5-foot-3, 120-pound girl, and I can throw a 300-pound man,” Dittmann said, who’s been practicing Judo for about 11 years and plans to receive her black belt over the summer. “I feel pretty safe walking around campus.”

Kodokan Judo is based on the original form of Judo that was developed at the Kodokan school in Japan. Kodokan Judo focuses on throws and locks to subdue an opponent.

Dittmann feels anyone can benefit from joining a combat sport club.

“It’s a great way to build confidence, meet people, feel safer and, most importantly, have fun,” she said.