NORWICH – A local group of mixed martial artists, consisting of young professionals, attended a tournament at Ithaca College recently and brought home three place-winning trophies.

Team “Choke Him Out,” based in Norwich, brought seven of its regular members to the Jujitsu submission tournament and captured two first-place positions and one third.

Jeff Newton and Fran Loiselle both earned first place while Reuben Roach took third place in their divisions. The event drew over 200 competitors, including professional fighters.

“The tournament was very large and had UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) competitors in it. Our local gym had a great showing and made great contacts through the MMA (mixed martial arts) community. In all we had seven competitors in team ‘Choke Him Out’ from Chenango County participate,” said Roach.