Grandmaster Jerry Fast Feed Fontine discusses the upcoming Unified Martial Arts Network tournament, emphasizing the importance of goal setting, community support, and the diverse participation across age groups and styles. He highlights the significance of women's involvement and the unique structure of the competition, aiming to revive the spirit of martial arts from the past.
Welcome to another episode of "What's Going On?" with Grandmaster Jerry Fast Feed Fontine. In this post, we will explore the upcoming Unified Martial Arts Network (UMAN) tournament, the importance of goal setting in martial arts, and the vibrant community that supports this event.
Grandmaster Fontine emphasizes the necessity of having clear goals in martial arts. He shares a personal anecdote about his relationship with his dog, Little Bit, which he attributes to setting explicit goals. He believes that having a vision and beginning with the end in mind is crucial for success. This philosophy extends to martial arts competitions, where preparation and mindset play significant roles.
Fontine outlines a simple yet effective plan for achieving goals:
The UMAN tournament is set to take place on September 20th at the Elpac Latino Presbyatorial Action Center. The schedule is as follows:
Fontine notes that there is even a participant in the 80-84 age division, showcasing the inclusivity of the event. He expresses excitement about the diverse age range and the number of competitors, particularly in the 60s and 70s divisions.
Fontine highlights the importance of community in martial arts. He mentions the support from sponsors and the participation of women, which has been a significant focus for the tournament. He acknowledges the contributions of individuals like Marty Cavis, who have been instrumental in fostering a supportive environment.
The tournament aims to empower women by allowing them to compete in multiple divisions. Women can choose to compete in the women’s division or in open divisions against men, which reflects a commitment to inclusivity and recognition of their skills. Fontine notes that the participation of women has increased due to sponsorships and community support, making the event more vibrant and diverse.
Fontine shares his thoughts on the evolution of martial arts competitions, expressing nostalgia for the standards of the past. He critiques the current state of some tournaments, where he feels the quality has diminished. He emphasizes the need for maintaining high standards in martial arts, particularly in weapon forms and sparring.
The tournament is not just about competition; it is also a tribute to the spirit of martial arts and those who have passed on. Fontine reflects on the legacy of his mother and the importance of honoring those who have contributed to the martial arts community. He believes that the UMAN tournament embodies this spirit, bringing together practitioners from various backgrounds and styles.
As the tournament approaches, Grandmaster Fontine expresses his excitement and anticipation. The Unified Martial Arts Network is set to be a landmark event that not only showcases talent across different age groups but also fosters a sense of community and support among martial artists. With a focus on inclusivity, high standards, and the celebration of martial arts heritage, the UMAN tournament promises to be a memorable experience for all involved.
In just five days, the martial arts community will come together to celebrate skill, dedication, and the enduring spirit of martial arts. Join us in this exciting journey!
