THE Northern Heat AFL program traded the turf for gym mats as players embraced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) to enhance their training and gain a competitive edge.

The program is a high-performance AFL initiative designed for under-17 boys and girls from Yamba to Port Macquarie.

Entry is fiercely competitive, with athletes subjected to a rigorous process of technical drills and endurance tests.

Only the top 25 from each gender group make the final cut.

The program runs through the off-season, and includes strength and conditioning sessions, speed training, and tailored AFL drills.

Head coach Luke Matthews, who has more than 30 years experience, leads the charge alongside a seasoned coaching team and a dedicated strength and conditioning coach.

This year, Matthews has added an exciting new dimension to the program by bringing in Black Belt Cristiano Hisa from the Cris Hisa BJJ Team in Coffs Harbour.

“As a coach I’m always looking at ways to give my athletes the best training and education to help them excel in their craft,” he said when asked why he decided to integrate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu into the training regimen.

“AFL demands that players have high levels of endurance and stamina. It’s not uncommon for players to run over 15 kms a game.

“Utilising energy efficiently and conserving energy will have a direct impact on performance.

“This is one way I believe Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can offer AFL players tools and techniques to maximise the athletes energy stores.

Matthews also holds a BJJ blue belt from CHBJJ.

“BJJ takes advantage of body mechanics, through leverage and weight distribution skills, allowing the athlete to move and manipulate opponents more effectively and efficiently.

“I’ve been working and training with Cris Hisa for two years now; the response from our players has been profound.

“They constantly express that the training has opened their eyes up to new possibilities, and given them new tools to maximise and enhance their performance as an athlete.”

After two intense sessions, one for boys, the other for girls, Cris Hisa was thrilled with the results.

“This is my second time working with AFL players. The first was last year with the AFL Force program, also under Luke Matthews,” he said.

“This time, we’ve tailored the drills to address specific challenges they face on the field.

“Having had a chance to understand their needs more thoroughly, I’ve been able to bring BJJ techniques directly aligned with their game.”

Cris Hisa is uniquely qualified for this role, having not only a deep understanding of BJJ but also the physical demands of contact sports.

A former professional Rugby Union player, he’s assisted NRL teams in the past, including during the 2019 season, making him the perfect fit to bridge BJJ with physical, high-intensity contact sports.

As the training camp winds down, both squads will head north to face the Southport Sharks in Queensland, a fitting challenge to put their newly honed skills to the test.

By David WIGLEY