The students of the Weyburn MMA Club made a remarkable impact at the COPA Sask Brazilian Jiu Jitsu tournament held in Regina, on Saturday. 

COPA Sask is Saskatchewan’s largest Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Submission Wrestling tournament. 

The club's 11 participants gave an outstanding performance, each securing medals in their respective categories. Coached by Dean Hodgkin and Tara Day, these young athletes showcased exceptional technique and determination.

Despite facing fierce competition from larger clubs across the province, the Weyburn MMA Club stood their ground and demonstrated their prowess on the mats. The tournament was a testament to the growing popularity and competitive level of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu within Saskatchewan.

The students competing were Nikolas Nikulin, Lily Sali, Brynn Ward, Hailee Bentz, Carter Dorgan, Knox Teske, Valeriia Chorna, Ava Chapman, Kabela Teske, Atlas Fredrickson, and Harley-Quinn Fredrickson.

The club's participants collectively earned an impressive haul of eight gold, eight silver, and five bronze medals, showcasing their high level of skill and dedication to the sport.

By the end of the event, the Weyburn MMA Club tied for fourth place overall, a significant achievement considering the size and experience differences compared to the top three clubs from Regina. This result highlights the club’s potential and the talent within its ranks.

Coach Dean Hodgkin expressed immense pride in the team’s performance.

"Our athletes have trained hard for this moment, and their dedication has paid off. To have every participant medal is extraordinary and speaks volumes about the quality of our training and the determination of our fighters."

Additionally, one lucky student, Lily Sali, received her Gray Belt promotion at the competition, adding to the club’s celebratory achievements.

The success at the COPA Sask tournament is expected to boost the club’s profile and attract more individuals to the sport, further contributing to the development of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in the region. The Weyburn MMA Club is already looking forward to future competitions, aiming to build on their success and continue making their mark in the martial arts community.

As kids' classes conclude for the summer, the Weyburn MMA Club is preparing for the fall session, with classes resuming in September. Registration details are available on the club’s Facebook and Instagram pages for those interested in enrolling. 

Meanwhile, adult classes will continue throughout the summer on Monday and Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. at the club, which is located at 50 Third Street northeast.

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