MMA4Florida.com - Phil Cardella's new academy
This weekend, we traveled to St. Augustine, FL to visit our good friend Phil Cardella. Phil is a second degree black belt under the esteemed Relson Gracie and is one of his most loyal and talented representatives in the US. After spending over a decade building up the Relson Gracie Austin school (gracieaustin.com) and laying the foundation for Relson’s schools across Texas, Phil recently moved to Florida to start a new chapter in his life and career.
Donald had the opportunity to teach a few classes and a seminar in St. Augustine, helping reinforce what Phil and his teacher, Master Relson Gracie, teach on a daily basis – effective, self-defense oriented Jiu-Jitsu, rooted in the basics.
The first class was a great experience, and it was clear that Phil has been teaching the students well. We were able to cover a variety of techniques, including basic hip movement / shrimping, the fundamental concepts of escaping bad positions, efficient ways to finish the triangle choke and finally, some defenses to the ankle lock.
The evening ended with some shenanigans on the balance ball – always a favorite. Phil and one of his students played a small game of H-O-R-S-E, tossing the ball back and forth, trying to jump on it and remain in balance.
Phil's first attempt. . . . So far, so good!
Another first try. . . nothing broken yet!
Things starting to get a little shaky. . .
But Donald ends it in style!!!!
Saturday, Donald taught a two hour seminar to benefit Phil’s growing academy. True to the spirit of all Relson’s schools, Donald taught the basics – passing the guard, controlling the cross-side, an armlock from cross side and a variation on the americana from the same position. A key theme from the seminar was how to utilize Jiu-Jitsu to become more efficient on the mat, and in life.
Overall, the weekend has been great! We shared some excellent Jiu-Jitsu, enjoyed the ocean as much as possible, and most importantly, we had the opportunity to spend some time with, and support, a close friend – Phil Cardella.
Make sure to check out his school if you’re ever in Florida! www.mma4Florida.com Great Relson Gracie technique being repped in the Sunshine state!