A Day Creek Coyote continues to fight on a near-daily basis, all without risking a referral or a trip to the principal’s office.
Local 8th grade jiu-jitsu talent Emily A. has years of experience in taking down her rivals. The 13-year-old Coyote recently tossed an opponent using a judo throw, surprising all the judges in her recent win, which was impressive enough to earn a spot in the Pangration Athlima 10th World Championships.
“I felt excited, maybe nervous, because I didn’t think I would get in,” Emily said. “When I did the trials, I tapped a lot, but I did some nice takedowns, so I was just really doubting myself. But yeah, I was excited.”
The 8th grader began her MMA career when she was only five years old, following in the footsteps of her older brother, Dominic A.
“In a way, yes, I would say I am following in [his] footsteps. He has been doing this longer than me, and he is actually on Team USA,” she said.
“My brother went into MMA, and then my parents said I should do it as well because why not?” she said.
Emily competes for Strength and Honor MMA in Upland, California as she trains for a national title. She and her family will head overseas next month.
“I have a good chance at winning. I definitely think I will show off a lot,” she said.
While Emily works to remain calm before her fights, she is nothing but aggressive on the mats.
“I’m definitely warming up to becoming aggressive, but yeah I would say I am aggressive.”
Competitors at Strength and Honor offer a higher level of training that’s necessary in preparation for more challenging competition.
“When my brother and I go together in the adults’ class, he will push me really hard,” Emily said. “He will make sure I work, and he won’t tap me out,” she added. “I am training very hard, and it’s a lot of work practicing submissions and takedowns. [I’m even] practicing Muay Thai to [perfect] my kicks and punches,” she said.
Emily is dedicated to doing what it takes to prepare for her big fight abroad, which demonstrates her passion for the sport.
“[If I were to win] I would be super excited and I’d celebrate with my family,” Emily said.
