Deciding to put on an event—like the first Northside Basho—is a lot like deciding to pull the trigger on an armbar submission: both come with risk.

I wanted to host a competition that would give Northside students a chance to gain experience and set a clear goal to work toward. I also wanted to challenge myself and the team by organizing an event—something we haven’t done in a while.

I wasn’t sure who would sign up, though I hoped everyone would. There’s a moment when transitioning into an armbar from mount where your opponent can turn in and escape—that’s the risk. Similarly, the risk in running an event is a low turnout, lack of interest, or worst of all, injury.

I’m happy to say the turnout was strong and the energy far from lackluster. And like an armbar that tightens and becomes more devastating over time, future Northside Basho competitions will continue to grow—with higher turnout, more amenities, and even better prizes.

Huge thanks to the team—Amber, Badger, Auggie, and Nep—for all the help.

Best of all, although there were armbars… no one got hurt.