Amil Rhoan, left, 8, tries to get a takedown on 6-year-old cousin Justice Florendo during a workout.

Siletz Grappling Club focuses on technique



Members of the Siletz Grappling Club have spent time this summer learning technique and honing their skills on the mat.

The leaders of the group are Tony Blomstrom and twin brothers Lee and Reggie Butler. Blomstrom said the point of summer isn’t to work on lifting or conditioning, but refining technique. The club is open to those 13 years of age through adults. Younger wrestlers with a certain level of experience are welcome as well.

The group meets Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the small gym at Siletz Valley Early College Academy. Blomstrom said some days the room is packed, and other days only a handful of people show up. “We’ll workout with whoever is here,” Blomstrom said.

There is a lot of teaching about different types of wrestling and different styles of martial arts, including judo and jiu-jitsu. “It’s important that they learn why they are learning what they are learning,” Blomstrom said.

The group ranges from younger participants like Kai Skidmore and Isaac Butler to high schoolers such as Chris Williams, Chris Garza, and Loy Marthaller, to adults like Victoria, Lee and Reggie Butler, Blomstrom, and others.

Blomstrom said local MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighter Daniel Stewart has worked out with the group at times, as has local fighter Tristan John. Blomstrom added that guys switching from boxing to MMA have shown interest in the club.

Blomstrom said community members, coaches, and wrestlers are welcome to show up and work out with the group.

Contact Blomstrom at 444-2376 for more information.



Jake Schubert is the sports reporter for the News-Times. He can be reached at 265-8571 ext. 221, or sports@newportnewstimes.com.

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