Grading Day — June 2026

On Saturday 6th June 2026, The M A Connection held one of the most memorable grading days in the academy's history. Families, teammates, and coaches packed the mats to witness eleven dedicated members step up and earn promotion to a new belt — the result of months and years of consistent, hard work on and off the mats.

Grading day is always a special occasion at The M A Connection. It's not just about the belt — it's a celebration of the character built along the way. The commitment, the early mornings, the times you wanted to quit but didn't. Every person who stepped up on the day earned it in full.

This grading brought a truly historic moment: two of our longest-serving and most respected members, Martin Bogner and Zacherad Patten, were awarded their Black Belts — the pinnacle of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Both have spent over a decade of dedication to the gentle art and are wonderful representatives of how jiu-jitsu influences and shapes a person's life. The entire MAC family is beyond proud of you both.

Other well-deserved promotions on the day (and some on subsequent training days for those who were unavoidably absent) were awarded to:

You all have worked so hard and strived, in many cases for over a decade, to reach this milestone. As we know, a belt is only a piece of material and not the end goal. We are so honoured and happy to be able to celebrate this momentous occasion with you all. This is what The M A Connection is all about 🤙

To every member who graded — congratulations. You make this community what it is. 🥋