08/17/2026
Some may have noticed the new hand painted artwork at the club…
The image represents the mythological story of Saginoike Heikuro who is surprised by a giant serpent and is forced to act bravely and defend himself on the spot against a formidable foe. The symbolism, however, is more than that: often in Japanese mythology a fisherman represents a sturdy foundation, survival, and a calm mindfulness against the natural elements that can be chaotic. The snake in the same mythology can represent transformation and change because a snake can shed its skin; renewing itself over and over again.
This image represents the constant duality in Jiu Jitsu of refining our fundamental repertoire but also the challenge of assimilating new techniques and strategies into our practice as the sport continually evolved in front of us in new and exciting ways.
I hope this art piece inspires all of our members to stand steadfast against challenges but to also keep an open mind when confronted with new information.
Thank you Kevin Pregitzer for creating another awesome piece of artwork for Authentic Jiu Jitsu
