By James Sablan
james@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
THE CNMI Trench Tech team continues to find success overseas as they concluded a highly successful campaign at the East Open Kids and Masters Jiu Jitsu Championships, accumulating a total of 13 medals in Takasaki, Japan, on Nov. 29 and 30, 2025.
The squad, comprised of seasoned masters and rising youth competitors, showcased heart, skill, and the spirit of the Marianas on the international mats.
The team secured multiple medals, led by a standout performance from former UFC fighter Frank “The Crank” Camacho, who earned an impressive two gold medals and a bronze.
Standing beside Camacho were Jessica Ma, with three bronze and one silver in the adult blue belt division; Sophia Choi, with a silver (kids grey belt); Vince Aguon, with a silver (masters 1 white belt); Drey Aldan, with a bronze (adult white belt); Mari Alvarez, with a bronze (masters 5 blue belt); James Choi, with a bronze (masters 4 white belt); and Gabriel Mitchell, with a bronze (kids orange belt).
While not all matches went their way, the team fought fiercely, with Professor Clinton Dela Cruz falling short in his first match by four points, Paulo Sangalang losing by two points in his opening match, and Cuki Alvarez dropping his first match by referee’s decision.
The team views the East Open as a critical opportunity for growth, exposure, and overcoming the mental hurdles of international competition.
Jessica Ma, who was promoted in June, reflected on her four-medal campaign, stating, “This was my first international competition after I got my blue belt back in June. I would say that my first gi match was the toughest for me, but each weight class brings its own set of challenges.” Ma continued, “I learned that points in matches are equally as important as submissions.”
Gabriel Mitchell embraced the challenge of the international scene. “Japan feels much more connected to the international scene, so I get to experience a wider variety of fighting styles. I’ve also noticed that the referees tend to give fighters more space to work, allowing the action to develop naturally instead of stopping things too early,” shared the 15-year-old medalist.
The youngest competitor, 9-year-old Sophia Choi, highlighted the mental toughness required. “It was something really nerve-wracking for me because I don’t know my opponents and don’t know what level they are,” said Choi. “It took a lot of courage for me to compete in an international competition. I’m really glad I did because it was a great experience to face my fears and overcome them,” she added.
For teammates James Choi and Drey Aldan, preparation and mindset were key themes. Choi shared, “I think it’s important to really believe in yourself and also have really good cardio. Confidence comes from competence, and competence comes from preparation. But none of it matters if you get tired before your opponent.” Aldan echoed this sentiment, stating, “There is never a loss — only a learning moment. We have to get back to the gym and sharpen our tools to get better.”
Trench Tech extended its gratitude to sponsors IT&E, Monster Energy, Century Hotel, Hafa Adai Rent-A-Car, Marianas Bingo, Blades By, The Crank, DC Pro Rentals, Tan Siu Lin Sports Complex, the Naputi family, Haiden Gifford, Evert Van Der Maas, James Choi, and 4Ever CNMI.
James Sablan has been a sports reporter for Variety since 2013. He was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College and covers all local sports.
