Genkai Grapple Club: Volume One - Where community and Competition Collide

Last winter, something special happened inside Tribe Fitness Trinity in New Port Richey, Fl on December 6th, 2025.

Genkai Grapple Club: Volume One was our first ever grappling competition that was the culmination of over six months of vision, planning, and purpose. What started as an idea quickly evolved into a night that brought together athletes, families, and supporters for an unforgettable showcase of skill, heart, and community.

A Night Fueled by Energy and Purpose

With approximately 30 competitors and 15 submission-only superfights across both gi and no-gi divisions, alongside a highly anticipated no-gi absolute division, the stage was set for a night of high-level grappling.

Nearly 100 spectators filled the venue throughout the evening, creating an atmosphere that was electric yet welcoming. The energy in the room was undeniable. Every match was met with cheers, encouragement, and genuine respect from the crowd that showed it wasn’t just about the hype, but that everyone was united in community.

From seasoned competitors to families bringing their kids to experience the sport, the event embodied what Genkai stands for: inclusivity, support, and growth both on and off the mats.

Moments That Defined the Night

While every match delivered in its own way, the absolute division stood out as one of the most intense highlights of the night.

Athletes pushed themselves through tough, back-to-back matches, showcasing not only their technical ability but their resilience. What made it even more special was the sportsmanship—teammates facing each other in friendly yet competitive battles, elevating one another in the process.

In the end, one athlete rose through the ranks (Trevor Shook) and claimed the men’s absolute title, walking away with the cash prize and the respect of everyone in the room.

But beyond the victories, it was the moments in between that truly defined the event. The roar of the crowd during close submissions, the embrace between competitors after hard-fought matches, and the overwhelming positivity that filled the space captivated us as the night went on.

More Than a Competition

Genkai Grapple Club: Volume One proved that this platform is about more than just matches.

Every athlete who stepped on the mats received a swag bag packed with items contributed by generous sponsors. Spectators weren’t left out either. Raffles and giveaways ensured that everyone had a chance to walk away with something in hand.

Adding to the experience, Cotee River Creamery was on-site serving ice cream and drinks, bringing an extra layer of community and connection to the event.

But perhaps the most impactful initiative of the night was the food drive. Together, the Genkai community came together to donate nearly 100 canned and non-perishable food items—demonstrating that the reach of this event goes far beyond competition.

Built From the Ground Up

What many didn’t see was the effort behind the scenes.

This event was the result of months and months of planning. Over half a year dedicated to ensuring that every detail, from match flow to athlete experience, was executed with intention. The goal was simple: create something meaningful, professional, and memorable.

And judging by the feedback, we feel like it delivered.

Athletes, coaches, and spectators alike consistently shared how impressed they were with the organization, the structure, and the overall experience. For a first event, it set a powerful standard for where the bar has to be for the full athlete experience and how much higher we have to reach to keep making each event bigger and better.

Setting the Tone for the Future

Volume One was just the beginning.

It laid the foundation for what Genkai Grapple Club is building and created a platform where athletes can test themselves, where the community can come together, and where impact extends beyond the mats.

With even bigger goals ahead, including larger prize pools, expanded divisions, and continued community initiatives, the momentum is already building for Volume Two.

If Volume One proved anything, it’s this:

When passion meets purpose, something bigger than competition is created.

And this is only the start.