For the last year, RHS sophomore Jacob Grogan has found himself training UFC at a local gym. Grogan’s time in the gym has resulted in his progress in jiu jitsu, kickboxing, and wrestling skills. He uses the gym as a way to get out of the house more often, and learn skills he could possibly use one day.
“I was sitting around the house doing nothing, and I thought, hey, I might as well be productive with my time,” Grogan said.
The sport has worked its way into Grogan’s routine, with him going after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays, as well as on the weekends. The UFC gym is a place that offers the chance to express creativity on the mat and gives a sense of freedom.
Grogan originally got into the sport with one of his friends, and since then has gotten to know more people at the gym and enjoy his time with other athletes, coaches, and staff. The sport has offered a chance to get to know more people in the community and connect with other athletes that share his same interest.
“Not only does UFC have great coaches, but also has great staff and faculty, really good gym equipment, and everyone just treats each other with respect. It’s a good learning place,” Grogan said.
Because of Grogan’s good experience with the activity overall, he recommends anyone who is interested in getting into a new sport or even just looking for a new way to exercise, should check out the gym.
Throughout Grogan’s time at the gym his main coach, Coach Ken, has noticed his strong motivation, improvement, and his dedication to the sport and enjoys watching him grow and improve.
“Jacob is improving, I love that he wants to be here. He gets here on time, he’s the only one that will let me know when he’s coming in, and will stay extra and work extra,” Coach Ken said. “He’s got an amazing work ethic and I can see him doing big things with this sport in the future.”
Grogan’s consistent schedule with the sport and his hard work can lead to him to endless possibilities in the UFC. He has no intentions of stopping his routine anytime soon, especially because since he has started the sport it has helped him feel more in shape and healthy during day to day life.