Photo By Lance Cpl. Mike Granahan | III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Installations Pacific Policy Letter...... read more read more
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CAMP FOSTER, Japan - III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Installations Pacific leadership signed a policy letter Jan. 19, outlining the procedures required for Marines and sailors to safely participate in off-duty mixed martial arts competitions.
The policy letter, III MEF/MCIPAC Policy Letter 1-12, states that participating in off-duty events is authorized, however, there are a series of steps a Marine or sailor must take to ensure their safety.
Commanders must conduct an operational risk analysis and apply operational risk management assessments before authorizing Marines and sailors to participate in MMA competitions, according to the new policy.
The assessments must include, at a minimum, the skills, fitness and experience of the Marine or sailor requesting to participate in the competition, event rules, and if the activity is officially sanctioned by a recognized MMA governing authority. A list of personal protective equipment used during the competition is also required in the assessment. Other requirements include location of the nearest medical facility, command notification procedures in the event of an injury and local laws that may impact the sponsorship or participation in MMA type events and activities.
“It is important to be aware of possible injuries so you know what to look for,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Tyler J. Wharton, a hospital corpsman with the Camp Foster Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Therapy Clinic. “Anterior cruciate ligament and medial collateral ligament injuries are common in MMA because of leg locks, and head trauma is common due to grappling.”
Participating in MMA can be very beneficial for service members as long as they are taking the proper safety precautions.
“Marines and sailors should be given the opportunity to compete outside of the military because as young service members get involved in MCMAP, they are introduced to the different types of martial arts that build the program,” said Gunnery Sgt. Christopher J. Kessler, a martial arts instructor trainer and a coach for the Military Alliance Fight Team. “Competing in off-duty competitions gives them a chance to further explore specific genres, as well as continually keeping service members combat ready.”
While Kessler believes Marines and sailors should be able to participate in martial arts competitions, he agrees that safety is paramount.
“Completing proper ORM and ORA is crucial because safety is always the main concern regardless of what we are doing,” said Kessler. “The Marine Corps is a constantly ready force, so it is important to avoid injuries whenever possible.”
| Date Taken: | 02.03.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 02.02.2012 18:02 |
| Story ID: | 83248 |
| Location: | CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 407 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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