The Rise of No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu in Scranton's Wrestling Heartland
Scranton, Pennsylvania has long been known as a hotbed for amateur wrestling at the high school and collegiate levels. The blue-collar sport is tailor-made for the blue-collar area and has been producing tough, physical wrestlers for decades.
This tradition continues today, with many local kids starting wrestling as early as elementary school.
A Natural Evolution: No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu
In recent years, a new grappling sport has begun gaining popularity in Scranton — no-gi jiu-jitsu.
No-gi jiu-jitsu is a form of submission grappling similar to wrestling, where competitors use chokeholds, arm locks, and leg locks to make their opponent tap out.
The key difference from wrestling is the absence of uniforms or protective gear — no singlets, no headgear, just shorts, a rashguard, and a mouthguard.
Where Wrestling Meets Submissions
No-gi jiu-jitsu is a natural extension of Scranton’s rich wrestling culture.
It still emphasizes:
- Takedowns
- Ground control
- Physical toughness
But now adds:
- Chokeholds
- Joint locks
- Advanced positional strategy
Gyms like No Limits Grappling Academy in Blakely — owned by former wrestler Matt Marcinek, who also holds a judo black belt and jiu-jitsu brown belt — are introducing submission wrestling to a whole new generation of athletes and former athletes.
Expanding Competitive Horizons
Competitions for adults and teens are held across the East Coast and the country, giving athletes another outlet for their competitive drive.
While wrestling will always remain a pillar of Scranton’s athletic identity, the rise of no-gi jiu-jitsu represents an evolution that builds on that legacy.
Scranton has always taken pride in its work ethic and grit on the mat. Now, by adding chokes and joint locks to the equation, local athletes are embracing a broader grappling arsenal that plays to the area’s strengths.
The next generation of grapplers is already taking notice — and making sure Scranton stays on the map.
Whether you're continuing a legacy or just starting your own grappling journey, no-gi jiu-jitsu is becoming the new chapter in Scranton’s combat sports tradition.