Grappling for Good: Quincy’s Sweep Away Hunger Jiu-Jitsu Tournament Returns to Kroc Center

The mats are being rolled out once again for a noble cause in Quincy, as registration opens for the second annual Sweep Away Hunger Jiu-Jitsu Tournament. Hosted by the Salvation Army at the Kroc Center, this event combines the technical artistry of BJJ with the fight against local hunger – and it’s quickly becoming a favorite on the regional combat sports calendar.

A Tournament With Purpose

I’ve covered dozens of jiu-jitsu tournaments across the country, but few have the heart behind them that Sweep Away Hunger does. Last year’s inaugural event brought together grapplers of all levels while collecting significant donations for local food programs. This year promises to be even bigger.

The tournament offers divisions for all skill levels, from white belt newcomers to seasoned purple and brown belt competitors. Whether you’re looking to test your first triangle choke in competition or you’re hunting for your next gold medal, there’s a bracket with your name on it.

Event Details You Need to Know

Looking to compete or spectate? Here’s the essential info:

• Date: Coming soon (check registration page for updates)
• Location: Kroc Center in Quincy
• Registration: Now open
• Format: Gi and No-Gi divisions available
• Cause: Supporting Salvation Army food assistance programs

Why Combat Sports and Charity Make the Perfect Tag Team

There’s something beautifully contradictory about using martial arts – skills developed for combat – to support humanitarian causes. The jiu-jitsu community has always had a generous spirit, perhaps because the art itself teaches us humility and respect alongside sweeps and submissions.

The Salvation Army’s partnership with the local BJJ community showcases how martial artists can leverage their passion to create tangible positive change. Each registration fee, spectator donation, and sponsored bracket helps put food on the tables of families in need throughout the Quincy area.

More Than Just Medals at Stake

While competitors will certainly be hunting for gold, the real winners are the families supported by the tournament proceeds. Last year’s event helped stock local food pantries during a critical time of need, and organizers are hoping to double their impact this year.

For those unfamiliar with jiu-jitsu tournaments, they offer some of the most exciting spectator experiences in combat sports. Unlike MMA, there’s no striking, but the chess-like strategy and sudden submission finishes provide plenty of drama and excitement.

How You Can Get Involved

Not a grappler but want to support the cause? You’ve got options:

• Attend as a spectator and make a donation
• Volunteer to help staff the event
• Sponsor a division or competitor
• Spread the word on social media

If you’re a jiu-jitsu practitioner in the region, this is the perfect opportunity to test your skills while supporting a great cause. Competition experience is invaluable for development, and the positive atmosphere of charity tournaments often makes them less intimidating for first-timers.

The Growing Trend of Martial Arts Charity Events

Sweep Away Hunger joins a growing movement of martial arts events dedicated to community causes. From cancer research fundraisers to youth program support, the combat sports world has discovered its power to generate not just excitement but real community impact.

These events often attract competitors from wider geographical areas than typical tournaments, as the charitable element gives fighters additional motivation to travel and participate.

What Makes This Tournament Special

Having covered similar events across the country, I can tell you that the combination of the Kroc Center’s excellent facilities and the Salvation Army’s organizational experience creates an exceptionally well-run tournament. Last year’s event flowed smoothly, with minimal delays and maximum mat time for competitors – something not all tournaments can boast.

Register Now to Secure Your Spot

If you’re interested in competing, don’t wait to register. Brackets typically fill quickly for charity events, and early registration ensures you’ll get matched appropriately for your experience level and weight class.

Whether you’re looking to add another medal to your collection or just want to support a worthy cause while watching some high-level grappling, mark your calendar for this event. The second annual Sweep Away Hunger Tournament promises to deliver both technical jiu-jitsu action and meaningful community impact.

Who knows? Maybe I’ll see you there matside, covering the action for the next generation of BJJ champions fighting for a cause greater than themselves.

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