Interview with Greg Nelson of Minnesota Martial Arts Academy
by Jiu Jitsu Minnesota on 04/29/11
What do you think about all your old students opening up schools? Is that good for you or do you not like it?
People have [to] grow, how they do it and what they do determines whether I like it or not. Most important thing to focus on my school, they are now in a position where there entire training life has to change or they don't really make it.
I look around at most of the major schools in the area and a lot of them are under you.
Many have had the majority of thier training at the Academy, some acknowledge it some don't. My goal is to stay true to my vision, maintain the integrity of the combative martial arts and focus on the growth of the students. Ultimately, there are enough people in Metro area for everyone, more choices for people to make. If you do your work and stay true to your vision your school will continue to grow and you can change more lives for the better.
Why do you think some people start up places and stay affilated with the academy and others just do there own thing?
Well, that is a good question. When they grow to a position where they have high level students and they leave to do there own thing they can't say anything. But, this has been happening in martial arts long before us
One last question. Do you prefer Gi or No Gi? I have to ask it.
I really enjoy both. I wrestled since I was 11, started Submission Wrestling and Shooto, and even did my first privates with Rickson in 1989 with no-gi. Got into gi first in 1995 with Cesar Gracie in CA., then Renzo Gracie at a seminar. Met Prof. Pedro Sauer in 1995 and he was so technical that I never looked back. I now teach both and roll both, but like to roll with the gi a bit more.
