Submitted photo – The IOC fighters celebrate their big weekend in San Jose.

The future of local MMA was on display over the weekend, as the Institute of Combat turned in several big performances at the North American Grappling Association tournament in San Jose.

Up-and-coming MMA pro Tyson Miller was one of two IOC fighters to take home a belt in an Expert Division at the prestigious grappling tournament, along with 16-year-old teammate Callum Morrison.

Morrison, a McKinleyville High student, has been particularly impressive for such a young fighter.

“We have him competing with the adults,” Morrison’s trainer John “Juan” Thompson said. “He can do it. He’s a gamer. This kid’s tough.”

Big things are expected out of the youngster going forward. 

“He’s been a great training partner,” Thompson added. “He’s super dedicated, he learns well, he listens. He’s just a great team player.”

Morrison and Miller’s belts highlighted a successful weekend for the club, which also took home eight gold medals, six silver and six bronze among the 18 fighters who traveled to compete.

The club continues to grow and recently also announced a new partnership with Health Sport.

The IOC is now offering classes for kids and adults at the Health Sport in Fortuna.

Miller, who is 1-0 as a pro and expected back in the MMA cage soon, is also now teaching classes at the Health Sport in Arcata.

And, according to Thompson, the partnership will continue to grow.

“We got a great response from the community (in Fortuna),” the head trainer said. “We’re going to be in all the Health Sports around here.”

Thompson also said he is currently working on putting together a second fight night to be held at the Cher-Ae Heights Casino after last year’s successful event.