2012 All Army Combatives Tournament

The 2012 All Army Combatives Tournament was held this past weekend at Ft. Hood, Texas.  The Modern Army Combatives Program (MACP) has really evolved over the years. This three day tournament with a progressive rules set is a good example of its growth. This is a grueling tournament that has had over 30 competitors in each weigh class. Weigh classes were 110 lbs, 125 lbs, 140 lbs, 155 lbs, 170 lbs, 185 lbs, 205 lbs and heavy weight. There is no weight limit for the heavy weights. It should also be mentioned that because the enemies of our country don’t care if you are male or female, females fight in the same brackets as male Soldiers. They are allowed to weigh a little bit more though. Each installation sent their top competitors to complete. Ft. Hood once again captured the championship title for the third year in a row.  Some past competitors include Tim Kennedy, Jason Norwood, James Stelly, and Brandon Sayles.

The army uses a progressive rule set to ensure only the most well rounded fighters make it to the finals. In the videos it may seem like the refs stop some of the fights early. This is because the safety of the fighters is the primary concern. We can’t deploy if we are injured.

All matches until the semifinals are submission grappling rounds using modified BJJ rules. The Soldiers use their uniforms as their gi.  Four points are awarded for mount and rear mount. Three points for passing the guard, sweeps and takedowns to a dominate position. Two points are awarded for knee on belly and takedowns into non-dominate positions. Of course a submission stops the fight. Each match is six minutes long.

The semifinals are known as the intermediate rounds and use a pankration rule set. This allows the Soldier to strike.  For safety, fighters must wear knee and instep pads. This makes it pretty tough for guys with short legs like me to finish triangles. Closed fist strikes are allowed to the body, open hand slaps to the head. Personally, I would rather just get punched in the head. Punches don’t make your lip quiver or get such a load response from the crowd as a nice solid slap. Kicks and knees are also allowed while standing. No knees to the head are allowed.  Elbows are also illegal. There are no points awarded. There are three judges that score the bout based on striking, takedowns, and grappling. Each match is 10 minutes long.

The final, or advanced rules, use amateur MMA rules. The fights are three five minute rounds. The competitors wear 4 oz. gloves, mouthpiece, t-shirt, cup and uniform bottoms.  You are allowed to hold onto your own uniform.  There were some pretty great matches. See the links below.

Video Link:

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2EEA38D589E2901F.

Webpage with links to photos:

http://www.hood.army.mil/combatives2012/