We have many amazing people with interesting stories that walk into all our gyms! This member spotlight turns to Jase McNally, ex-military and well known mat savage. One of the nicest guys to ever step onto the mats at Absolute MMA St Kilda, Jase always brings a positive attitude to training and we’re glad to have him on board. Read on to find out more about Jase!
Occupation: Fuel Truck Driver
Martial Arts/Sports: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
How did you get into the sport?
After my military career had ended I hadn’t done a great deal in the way of personal achievement or fulfilment, so I was looking for a challenge. I definitely found that in jiu jitsu, it’s one of the hardest things I’ve done.
What are your immediate training goals?
I would like to earn my blue belt. No matter when that may be I just hope to be a better version of myself than I was the day before.
What are your goals for the next five years?
I would like to be active on the masters scene and would like to compete at the world masters. For no other reason than to experience it. Anything more would be a bonus. I obviously also want to continue to improve and better my jiu jitsu game. Maybe someday down the road I could teach.
Why do you love training at Absolute MMA?
Many reasons. Everyone is friendly and there is zero ego, just respect. The culture is great and the people are what make it. I have walked in that door in a bad mood after a bad day but I have always walked out high on life.
What is your favourite move?
The robot.
Favourite workout/walkout song?
Badman by Wiley
What do you like to do to relax besides training?
Hiking with my dog Luna and fiance Tina. They’re my world, my everything. Love my girls.
Can you tell us about where you’re from and any interesting stories growing up? If you’re not originally from Melbourne, how’d you end up living in Melbourne, Australia?
I’m originally from a town called Queenbeyan just outside of Canberra. I left there when I was 18 and joined the Army in 2002. I enjoyed that, did a tour overseas but unfortunately had a spinal injury and was discharged after only 5 years. Since then I have lived in Brisbane between 2006-2012 and have been here in Melbourne since 2012. I’m a fuel truck driver and work ridiculous hours, so I train sometimes during the day and sometimes at night. Odd fact about me is I love a good podcast or audio book and have over 5000 hours of listening, but I haven’t read a physical paperback in years.
Who are the kind of people that you look up to and why?
I like people like David goggins, Jocko Willink and Eddie Hall. No bullshit kinda guys. Tell it how it is but still have the time to help anyone anytime. I see some traits like that in myself or I at least try to aspire to that. Doing things that people deem hard or impossible is important to me as is helping others realise they can do amazing things if they put in the work.
What’s your favourite place to eat in Melbourne and your #1 dish recommendation?
I have celiac disease so I’m pretty limited. I love a good burger from grill’d, gluten free bun of course. Not that exciting, sorry (haha).
If you could go back in time to your first martial art class, what would be the advice you give to your past self?
Cherish every moment. It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon. Martial arts are a life long pursuit.
“Jase is a typical hard worker. He loves learning, loves learning jiu jitsu and definitely puts in the effort. He always has questions in regards to techniques and strategies. Coming off an injury he took his rehab very well and now he has completely levelled up in skill. His hardworking mindset and ethic will take him far in not only jiu jitsu, but in all ventures of life.“- Mikael Yahaya
“Jase is one of the most dedicated and enthusiastic and positive students and teammates at St Kilda. He applies himself to everything he does – technique, competition, lifting or rehab. He is a pleasure to have around the club!”- Livia Giles
“Jase McNally is all round radlord! Loves a good roll and always keen to lend a hand & have a chat.”- Harley Lewis
“He’s a super nice guy who works hard. Every time I see him he is positive and keen to learn. Also his beard is totally Boss!!” – James Tomlinson aka “JT”