MMA For Rehab

I have been very fortunate to work with a lot of talented athletes over the past number of years. Over the past few months I have personally worked with the following fighters to get them ready for the ring in October, November, and December: Marcus Davis, Patrick Cote, Kenny Florian, Nate Quarry, Jorge Gurgel, Scott Rehm, Greg Rebello, and Shawn Pacheco.

Shawn Pacheco is a very interesting case. Here’s a 43 year old very fit 135lber. His story is an interesting one. In 2000 he was a serious car accident that damaged his back dramatically. Shawn had no interest in martial arts or stepping in the ring for that matter. After his third back surgery a friend (Tim Barchard) who owns a martial arts studio in New Hampshire recommended karate for his rehab. He replied, no way! Well he dived in head first in 2002 and loved every minute of it. While at a friends house one night, they were watching a UFC event. Shawn became intrigued with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. A Genzo Gracie affiliate school started up in New Hampshire and he decided to give it a shot. He loved it! Returning the favor to his friend Tim, he introduced him to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

His next evolution came when he went down to the famed SityodtongMuay Thai and MMA gym in Somerville Mass, owned by Kru Mark Dellagrotte. Shawn now had the bug and wanted to test his skills in the ring. This is no small feat as he has a titanium cage in his back. He won his first fly weight fight in 2006 and now holds one title and is on his way to another title that I am preparing him for.

Why am I telling you this? For inspiration and to be direct. We all need a little inspiration and I think stories such as these aid everyone, including myself. Here is a person that could have been crippled. His doctor told him if he had one more operation he probably would have trouble walking. Shawn went outside of the box and used MMA and Martial arts for rehab! He believes in martial arts so much he started his own school in 2004. This story speaks to me and says there is hope.

Fight for what you want and strive to do better everyday! All the best. Coach Kearns aka Dr. Evil