Trench Tech promotes 7 BJJ students

Seven Brazilian jiu jitsu practitioners of Trench Tech Purebred Saipan were promoted to new belt ranks, recognizing their hard work, consistency, and perseverance.

The event, held this past Thursday at the Trench Tech Gym, was overseen by professor Steven Roberto, owner of Purebred Schools in Guam and renowned jiu jitsu instructor, who taught both Justis “Cuki” Alvarez, the founder of Trench Tech, and professional fighter Frank “The Crank” Camacho.

The ceremony saw participants promoted across several belt levels, from white to blue, blue to purple, and purple to brown. Among those recognized was a juvenile, Gabriel “Gabel Grip” Mitchell, aged 14, who was promoted from juvenile white belt to orange/white belt.

Also promoted from white to blue belt were Jason Atrero, Isaiah Sablan, Mariana Alvarez; from blue to purple belt Giovonni Taitinfong and Kier Agda, and Mike Atoigue from purple to brown belt.

Alvarez shared his thoughts on the significance of the promotions: “They have dedicated their time and energy the last few years—4-5 days a week—to train and enhance their skills and techniques in the art of jiu jitsu. All have grown and shown significant improvement in their physical and mental development, not just in the gym but in life in general. We felt it was time to reward and award them for all their hard work and sacrifice they chose to make in order to become a better version of themselves on their BJJ journey.”

He emphasized the long-term goal for students, saying “Don’t stop training until your belt color turns black.”

Alvarez highlighted the team’s growing sense of unity, adding “They continue to reach their goals, one small milestone at a time, and in that respect, it shows in the mat culture at the gym. We have also become closer as a team and will continue to help build each other up and help each other climb the ranks in the years to come.”

The promotions not only reflect individual achievements, but also the strength of the community at Trench Tech, with Roberto traveling to Saipan to preside over the ceremony.