STMA Jiu Jitsu

08/10/2026

Over the weekend these athletes competed at the Taranaki Spring Open in New Plymouth.

We are so proud of everyone who stepped onto the mats, showed courage, worked hard and gave it their all. Win or lose, every match was a chance to learn, grow and represent our club.

And what an amazing achievement… our club came 2nd overall.

A massive thank you to all the parents, coaches and supporters who helped make the weekend such a success. Your encouragement and support means so much.

Well done team, you should all be incredibly proud!

25/09/2026

Term 3 Promotions 💪

A huge congratulations to everyone who received new belts and tabs.

Keep up the great work!

19/09/2026

NZ Grappler Capital Challenge!

Our team had an awesome day competing in Kapiti! So proud of everyone who stepped on the mats and represented the club.

Well done team 💪

18/08/2026

Congratulations Olly and Curtis !!

The STMA team had the pleasure of celebrating the promotion of these two lads to Black Belt and what better time than the 10th anniversary of the club.

It has been a long journey for you guys with many ups and downs but you consistency and dedication has lead you to an achievement most people never reach, so well done 🙌

Thank you welcoming these two in your growing group of Black Belts.

18/08/2026

Big congratulations to Daniel on achieving his Brown Belt !!

Anyone that’s familiar with STMA would know how big of a part Daniel plays in our programs, the time and dedication he puts in is second to none 🙌

Can’t wait to watch you smash it in the Brown Belt division 💪

24/07/2026

https://newplymouth.neighbourlynews.co.nz/good-sports/hwera-grapples-with-a-new-jiu-jitsu-event-and-loves-it-14965

Tournament now a permanent fixture on the NZ Grappler circuit.

09/07/2026

BEST OF THE WEST !!

Over the weekend we with the help of Battalion Jiu-Jitsu Academy had the honour of hosting the NZ Grappler “West Coast Challenge” here in Hawera, which is a big deal to say the least.

The team was out in full force with over a hundred entries from STMA alone netting us🥇40 🥈28 🥉16
and the title of top team for the event.

Leading into this event the training become very specialised, physical and gruelling to which our athletes poured themselves into.

To the team I’m very proud of your performances on the day and your efforts in all the classes leading into it.

Thank you to the parents for believing in the process, getting behind the team and for giving your kids the opportunity to shine 🙌

07/07/2026

And this was just the beginning, bigger and better next year 💪

07/07/2026

NZBJJF Hall of Fame Inductee
Professor Keitha Bannan

The New Zealand Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation is honoured to induct Professor Keitha Bannan into the NZBJJF Hall of Fame in recognition of her extraordinary contribution to the history and development of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in New Zealand.

Professor Keitha holds a truly historic place in our sport as the first woman in New Zealand to earn a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt. Her achievement marked a defining moment for our martial arts community, breaking new ground and opening doors for generations of women who would follow her path.

Throughout her journey, Professor Keitha has demonstrated that leadership is measured not only by rank or competition results, but by service, generosity, and the ability to inspire others. Through decades of dedication to teaching, mentoring, and building strong communities, she has helped shape the growth of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu across New Zealand.

Beyond the mats, Professor Keitha has been a passionate advocate for women in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Her support for the development of women's training opportunities, camps, and community initiatives has encouraged countless women and girls to discover the confidence, resilience, and lifelong benefits that Jiu-Jitsu offers.

Her influence extends far beyond her own academy. She has earned the respect of practitioners throughout New Zealand for her humility, integrity, and unwavering commitment to preserving the true values of our art. She has inspired athletes, coaches, instructors, and future black belts, leaving a legacy that continues to shape the New Zealand Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community today.

The New Zealand Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation proudly recognises Professor Keitha Bannan as a true pioneer whose vision, courage, and dedication have helped build the foundation upon which so many continue to grow.

Her legacy will forever remain an important chapter in the history of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in New Zealand.

Congratulations, Professor Keitha Bannan, and welcome to the NZBJJF Hall of Fame.

03/07/2026

Term 2 promotions 💪

These kids have worked so hard this term in prep for tomorrow’s competition, tabs today medals tomorrow.

Let go team!!