Built on respect.
Driven by purpose.
MMA Raido is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation organized under Michigan law, dedicated to providing free and low-cost adult martial arts and MMA training in Alpena, Michigan.
“LIFT PEOPLE UP, NOT BRING THEM DOWN.”
MMA Raido promotes physical fitness, self-discipline, mental well-being, and community engagement through accessible MMA classes for adults 18+. We foster collaboration among Alpena-area MMA participants and groups, emphasizing “stronger together” through cross-training and joint events.
Training here is about growth, camaraderie, and mutual elevation. We believe in collaboration over competition, and that the martial arts community is strongest when we build each other up.
“Raido” (pronounced “Rye-doe”) means journey — MMA Raido is “My Martial Arts Journey.”
CJ MALANEY
President & Head Instructor
CJ's teaching philosophy centers on meeting every student where they are. Whether you've never thrown a punch or you've been training for years, his approach is the same: build fundamentals, build confidence, build each other up. Training isn't about creating fighters — it's about creating stronger, more disciplined, more resilient people.
Our Board of Directors guides MMA Raido's mission and ensures responsible stewardship of our community resources.
Craig Phillips
Secretary & Board Chair
Craig serves as Board Chair and Secretary, overseeing organizational records and guiding the strategic direction of MMA Raido.
Jeanette Malaney
Treasurer
Jeanette manages the financial health of MMA Raido, ensuring transparency and responsible stewardship of community resources.
Trey Manning
Supporting Board Member
Trey brings dedication and community insight to the board, helping shape programs and partnerships.
The 12 Rules of
MMA Raido
Train hard, tap often, and leave egos at the door.
Tap like you mean it
If it hurts, tap early and often. No one gets bonus points for heroic suffering. Tapping isn't weakness; it's wisdom (and keeps your limbs attached).
Respect the tap
When someone taps, release instantly — like you're letting go of a hot pan. Cranking after the tap is a one-way ticket out the door.
Ego checks at the entrance
Leave your ego with your shoes. We're all here to improve, not prove. If you're rolling to "win" every round, you're missing the point (and probably getting armbarred by a white belt soon).
No cranks
Submissions are art, not torture devices. Apply slowly, progressively, and with feedback. If your partner says "easy," dial it back faster than a bad date.
Hygiene is non-negotiable
Shower, trim nails, wash your gi. Nobody wants to roll with a walking biohazard. Fresh mats, fresh vibes.
Communicate like adults
"I'm new to this," "My knee's tweaky," "Can we go lighter?" — Say it out loud. We're not mind-readers.
No slamming, no spiking
This isn't WWE. Lift and control, don't drop your partner like a bad habit. Gravity is already your enemy; don't team up with it.
Be the rising tide
Lift others up. Celebrate improvements, offer tips kindly. We're building a community, not a battle royale.
Instructor says stop? Stop.
When the coach calls it, freeze like you're in a bad spy movie. Ego doesn't override authority here.
No trash talk outside the roll
Light banter on the mats is fine (if mutual). But mean-spirited jabs about someone's game? Save it for your journal.
Clean up your mess
Wipe sweat, pick up gear, leave the space better than you found it. Respect the mats, respect the next class.
Bring positive light (or at least don't dim it)
Smile, encourage, show up consistently. Raido is about honor, growth, and good energy. If you're having a bad day, channel it into better technique, not bad attitudes.
These rules keep training safe, fun, and uplifting. Break them, and the Board may politely (but firmly) suggest you find a different mat to grace.
Respect is non-negotiable.
MMA Raido was founded on the principles of respect, honor, and bringing positive light to the community. All participants are expected to uphold a high standard of personal accountability and conduct. This organization exists to lift people up, not bring them down.
Participant consent is mandatory — nobody is ever forced to engage in any drill, roll, technique, or pairing against their will. You always have the right to decline politely, no questions asked.
No overly aggressive behavior or cranking submissions
No jerking on joint locks or unsafe slams
No harassment, discrimination, or disruptive behavior
No sparring without supervision and approved safety equipment
No smoking, vaping, drugs, or alcohol on premises
Mat cleaning is mandatory after every class
Violations may result in verbal warnings, temporary suspension, or expulsion as determined by the Board of Directors.
ADMISSION & SAFETY POLICY
MMA Raido is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and positive training environment for every participant. The safety and well-being of our community is our highest priority.
Instructors and the Board of Directors have full and sole discretion to deny admission, refuse participation, or remove any individual from classes or premises at any time and for any reason.
This includes, but is not limited to: threats of violence, reports of intent to harm others, aggressive or unsafe conduct, or any behavior that violates our Code of Conduct and 12 Rules.
Such decisions are final and made in the best interest of the organization and its members. We will act swiftly to protect our community without prior notice.
By participating in MMA Raido activities, all individuals acknowledge and agree to this policy.