Well Sunday was a lot of fun, sadly there was only a fairly small group
of people who were able to make it, but the grappling and work Scott
showed was excellent.

There is a lot of competitiveness between Rmax and Systema and all sorts
of rubbish over seas. Fortunately, we aren't overseas and here in
Australia we have the luxury of learning from any source without
political issues clouding good training.

As a result I will be continuing to train under Scott Sonnon as well as
Vladimir et al. I hope Systema continues to grow in Australia and I want
to add that Vlad and all the senior instructors talk about "your
Systema". This means using the teaching and principles of Systema to
develop a style that suits you and your body.

Seeing Scott work is interesting as his focus is MMA and grappling, so
all his systema (ROSS style) is tailored for that arena. Which is
awesome as it opens up insights and avenues that you wouldn't normally
consider. Even Alex Kostic was saying that if was a bit younger he would
seriously consider competing in MMA. I guess outside of picking fights
in the street MMA is one of the only ways to really test your skills (if
you feel a need for that sort of thing).

What it has done is made me aware of needing a balance in training - at
least for me - of "street wise" Systema as displayed by Vladimir and
Alex and Kevin etc. And MMA style systema/sambo as demonstrated by
Scott, after all, both Alex and Kevin both train in more than just
Systema. The other work Scott demonstated encompesed Systema-like
boxing, this was very interested and demonstrated the principles of the
wave in jabs, crosses and hooks. This was great as it illustrates how
Systema principles can be applied to any martial art - so any previous
styles or experience you have had need not be waisted or useless!

Anyway, I now am focussing on Grappling skill development and
Systema/Rmax. I hope you guys continue to train and train with me and
keep an open mind so you all develop good well rounded ability.

Andrew