MAUI’S FINEST: I&I ACADEMY TAKES THE CROWN

Champions in the Valley Isle: I&I Academy Dominates the Hawaii Triple Crown BJJ Maui Open

The mats at Lahainaluna High School were electric this past Saturday, April 4, but by the end of the day, one name stood above the rest: I&I MMA Academy.

In a massive display of technique, heart, and teamwork, I&I Academy officially secured 1st Place as Team Champions at the Hawaii Triple Crown BJJ Maui Open. From the youngest keiki to the seasoned adults, the sea of I&I black and gold made it clear that Wailuku came to play.

A True Team Victory

Winning a team title isn't just about one or two superstars; it’s about the collective grind. A huge congratulations goes out to:

• The Athletes: You showed the island what "I&I" (Independent & Inspired) truly means. Every submission and hard-fought escape contributed to this massive achievement.

• The Coaches: Your leadership on the sidelines was the foundation of this win.

• The Ohana: To the parents and supporters who filled the stands—your energy was the "extra man" on the mat.

The Vision Behind the Victory: Kendall and Anna Grove

This win is a testament to the culture built by Kendall "Da Spyder" Grove and his wife, Anna. Kendall, The Ultimate Fighter Season 3 champion, has turned his world-class MMA expertise into a legacy for Maui. While Kendall leads the training, Anna is the heartbeat of the academy, ensuring it’s a true home for Maui’s youth.

The Grove family truly "walks the walk"—all of Kendall’s children train at the academy, making the mats a second home where the next generation of "Spyders" is being raised.

Things You Might Not Know About I&I Academy

Beyond the championship trophies, there are a few things that make I&I truly special:

• The Meaning of "I&I": It stands for "Independent & Inspired." It’s a philosophy that encourages students to be self-reliant while remaining motivated by their community and heritage.

• A "Second Chance" Success: Kendall actually started a school back in 2008, but he closed it because he felt he couldn't give it his "heart and soul" while still fighting full-time in the UFC. When he opened the current I&I Academy, it was with a renewed 100% commitment to his students.

• Honest Training: Kendall’s guiding principle for the academy is "Honest Training." He believes in no shortcuts—just respect, discipline, and hard work.

• A Coaching Duel: In a famous family moment, Kendall and Anna once had to coach against each other at the Pan Kids tournament when their twin daughters faced off in the finals! It’s that level of competitive spirit and family love that defines the gym.

Celebrating the Legacy: Teata Grove

We also want to take a moment to look back on a historic milestone from two weeks ago. Teata Grove (@teatagrove) was officially inducted into the H.P. Baldwin High School Hall of Fame!

Teata made history as the first wrestler in school history to make it to the finals all four years of high school. While she didn't compete at this weekend's Triple Crown, her trailblazing success in the wrestling world continues to be the blueprint for every young athlete at I&I.

Congratulations once again to the entire I&I MMA Academy team! 1st Place Team Champions—well deserved!