May 2025 | Episode #13
Progress rarely happens by accident. It’s the result of pressure and an intentional decision to step into challenge, push past discomfort, and bring out the best in ourselves and our teammates. And if you’ve stepped onto the mats over the past month, that mindset was on full display. From a standout showing at the Nebraska Jiu-Jitsu Championship to the launch of our dedicated Competition class trainings, we’re all committed to raising the bar.
Small, but Mighty
Three LŌKAHI athletes stepped up to compete in the Nebraska Jiu-Jitsu Championship Spring Open. And despite being small in numbers, their performances showed impressive heart and progress. In all, the team went 11-2, coming away with 5 Gold Medals + 1 Silver.
But that’s not all. The performances of these individuals even managed to best other teams multiples larger, earning LŌKAHI a 2nd place finish in the overall Adult division .
NATE CHRISTENSEN had a standout performance claiming double golds and being awarded pound-for-pound ADVANCED MALE ATHLETE… all as a white belt .
MAX WOLD made his tournament debut after only 4 months of grappling experience, going 5-0 on the day and also earning DOUBLE GOLD in his Gi and No Gi brackets.
ASHLYNN ORTEGA challenged herself by moving up a belt level, showcasing her dominant top pressure and bring home a GOLD in the Gi and SILVER in No Gi. (PS - her arm is fine!)
We still have lots to work on, but we couldn’t be more proud to see our team’s hard work and direction validated in competition.
As always, a very special thank you to the Lincoln BJJ crew who worked hard to organize and put together yet another great event!
Comp Classes are Heating Up!
To keep the momentum going and raise the level of our entire Collective, we’ve launched two dedicated Competition Classes. These sessions are designed not just for those preparing to compete, but for anyone looking to train with greater intensity and purpose.
But what separates a typical Fundamentals class vs Competition training? We asked Coach Nolan, who leads the Friday morning crew:
“Comp class is not just a tougher class, but an emphasis on specific goals or objectives that someone is likely to encounter while in a Competition. We put a focus on shorter rounds to building urgency and getting people accustomed to pushing the pace when they’re tired and down on the scorecards.”
Whether you’ve got an eye on the upcoming Grappling Industries tournament or just want to push yourself and your teammates to be better, we’re excited to see the growth of our squad.
Fridays | 6:00 - 7:00am | Gi with Coach Nolan
Saturdays | 10:30 - 12:00pm | No Gi with Coach Ryan
Technique Showcase
Don’t sleep on the COLLAR DRAG! Tried and true, check out these details from Coach Nolan.
Wait, He’s How Old ???
It’s true folks, your good ol’ Uncle Matt recently turned 50!
But aside from being bad at technology, you’d be hard-pressed to find a spryer and more active individual roaming the mats.
For those who don’t know the story of our inception, MATT HANSEN was the driving force in many workings behind-the-scenes. From the double-layer of 2” mats (we might be the only gym in the world) to playing project manager with our building contractors to his current role as Assistant coach and Lead janitor, no one cares more about our Collective than Matt.
His ‘flow rolls’ are the reason we all got AED-certified. His signature pose and shaka are legendary in the BJJ community. And should you feel so inclined, his favorite donut is an apple fritter.
Learn more about our Leadership team:
“I’m brand new to Jiu-Jitsu, and starting out at Lōkahi Jiu-Jitsu Collective has been an incredible experience. From the moment I walked in, everyone made me feel welcome. A huge shoutout to Ryan, who helped me get started and got me set up in the foundations class — the perfect place to begin learning the basics of the discipline.
I had an absolute blast learning the fundamentals. The way the class is structured makes everything approachable, even if you’ve never done anything like this before. The coaches are knowledgeable and patient, and the entire vibe of the gym is positive, respectful, and super friendly. It’s a great space for anyone just starting their Jiu-Jitsu journey.
Highly recommend Lōkahi if you’re thinking about diving into Jiu-Jitsu — you’ll feel right at home.”
Spring Merch - Almost Gone!!!
The LŌKAHI Spring merch line is here! Didn’t get yours during the pre-order? We’ve got just a few sizes and items left. Head to the SHOP to reserve your limited edition items before they’re sold out and gone for good.
Upcoming Tournaments
May 31st - Grappling Industries
Omaha, NE
June 21st - Sub Spectrum
Des Moines, IA
Upcoming MAY Birthdays
Wishing all of our Collective Members a very happy birthday!
1st - Enzo Cricenti
3rd - Kyle Booth
21st - Chris Wilhelm
31st - Justin Hansen
“Outstanding place to train Jiu-Jitsu in Omaha. Lokahi Jiu-Jitsu has knowledgeable and strong instructors, a clean and spacious facility, and friendly yet competitive members! They also have showers, which is a must for anyone commuting. Even though I have a desk job, I get great training here. Lokahi Jiu-Jitsu is perfect for both competitive athletes and hobbyists!”