Interview with June's Community Champion of the Month - Tristan Parker

When did you first start doing Jiu Jitsu yourself as an athlete? You've accomplished a lot as an athlete, how often do you personally train?

I first started training Jiu Jitsu in 2008 and competed for the first time with only 3 or 4 months of training, I lost every match lol. Today I train at minimum once a day, usually twice a day, and if I’m preparing for a competition I will likely train 3-4 hrs throughout the day plus lifting weights 3 times a week.

What made you want to open The Fort Martial Arts and take on that responsibility as co-owner?

Scott Campbell and I previously trained 3 days a week at the other club in town with Scott and Zack Z teaching virtually all the classes. The other 4 days of the week we trained in our friend Zack’s garage, however in September 2018 he moved to Campbell River. With limited training available now that Zack moved and considering we would be running the program anyhow, we figured it was time for us to start something where we can really see our vision unfold and have flexible classes available for people of all ages.

You've been described as a role model, what is one thing that you always hope to pass on to others?

I was fortunate enough to have a role model in my life as a young adult. Without him, I think I might still be in a point in my life where I was insecure, unmotivated, and feared challenges. I would hope I can pass on things that are more personal like confidence and determination.

What would be one of the most important pieces of advice for creating healthy and positive goals?

Consistency. You cannot achieve anything in the long term without consistency.

What is your favourite thing about training youth in martial arts and Jiu Jitsu?

My favourite moments are actually when I see the joy and excitement of the youth when they do something they didn’t think they can do. Countless times I have seen one moment change a youth's confidence because they pushed through something difficult where they were losing and came out with the win or submission in the end. It can change how a youth looks at challenges and uncomfortable scenarios.

Finally, if you feel comfortable answering, what is your next personal goal that you are working towards?

My personal goals are always aligned with my goals as a coach. There are some tournaments coming up this year that no one in Fort McMurray has ever won. My goal is to continue to show my members and Fort McMurray that The Fort has world-class Jiu Jitsu and just because we are from a small city doesn’t mean we can’t win these big tournaments.