Scott’s Martial arts club grapples with stress, boosts confidence

Published March 27, 2025
By Senior Airman De’Quan Simmons
375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --

What began as a small group training in one Airman’s garage has grown into a thriving community of nearly 100 Airmen across the base.

Senior Airman Cesar Gonzalez, a firefighter with the 375th Civil Engineer Squadron, runs a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu club for fellow Airmen. He shares his knowledge to help others build confidence, stay active and connect through martial arts.

Scott Brazilian Jiu Jitsu club trains on base — Senior Airman Cesar Gonzalez, 375th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter and creator of an on-base Brazilian Jiu-jitsu club, practices techniques spars with a club member during a club meeting on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, March 18, 2025. What began as a small group training in Gonzalez’s garage has grown into a vibrant BJJ club with nearly 100 Airmen participating across the base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman De’Quan Simmons).

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art and combat sport focusing on grappling and ground fighting. It emphasizes using technique, leverage and body mechanics to control or submit an opponent rather than relying on brute strength or striking.

Gonzalez has been practicing BJJ since he was 15. He currently competes in BJJ competitions nationwide, representing U.S. Air Force Special Warfare Recruiting. With this passion for BJJ, he helped start a club on base to share the benefits of BJJ with others.

“The club helps build better Airmen by boosting their confidence, providing a means to relieve stress, make friends and expand their network. Also, I believe all military members should have some sort of combatitves knowledge under their belt."

Senior Airman Cesar Gonzalez, 375th Civil Engineer Squadron firefighter

“The club helps build better Airmen by boosting their confidence, providing a means to relieve stress, make friends and expand their network,” said Gonzalez. “Also, I believe all military members should have some sort of combatitves knowledge under their belt.”

With momentum building, Gonzalez looked for a way to expand the club beyond his garage. While working as a fire dispatcher, he managed to receive permission from his fellow first responders to use the base defense operations center gym as their meeting place. Following the relocation, the club continued to grow through word of mouth.

As the club found a new home and attendance steadily increased, so did its impact on its members.

“I enjoy the accessibility,” said Vanessa Ikner, a club member for about a year and a half. “Our family can’t afford for all of us to go to BJJ, but the club has given us accessibility to try it more often and with more people. Everyone is welcome, and that is represented well in this group.”

In addition to increased accessibility, many members emphasize the personal and social benefits the club provides.

“As a military spouse, it can be challenging to establish a sense of camaraderie and social connections. Jiu-Jitsu provides me with both as well as opportunities to meet new individuals, work towards a shared objective and enhance my personal growth,” said John Sabo, who has been a member for roughly 3 months. “Having access to training on base, close to my home, is a significant advantage.”

For assistant coach Katie Bochenek, the club’s impact goes well beyond the mats.

“This club not only brings a sense of community, but it also serves as exercise, self-defense, social time and building a love for martial arts,” said Bochenek.

Looking ahead, Gonzalez wants to keep the club running even after he leaves, eventually passing the torch to another passionate BJJ practitioner. Gonzalez hopes more people take the leap and experience BJJ for themselves and leaves words of encouragement to those interested in taking up BJJ as a hobby. Anyone can join as long as they are 15 years or older, and he encourages them to reach out.

“I suggest they try it. It is a complete self-defense martial art that will get you in shape, teach you to be humble, boost your confidence, and teach you to be more patient during tough times,” said Gonzalez. “Not only that, you will create a lot of long-lasting friendships at every gym you go to.”

If you’re interested in joining or would like more info, reach out to Gonzalez via email: cesar.gonzalez_zamora@us.af.mil