Daisy Fresh: An American Jiu-Jitsu Story

PSF Takes On the ADCC Las Vegas Open | Daisy Fresh S3E6 Recap

PSF Takes On the ADCC Las Vegas Open | Daisy Fresh S3E6 Recap

The Pedigo crew rebounds after losing their home academy, and takes the ADCC Open by storm in Episode 6 of Season 3.

Jul 5, 2023 by Liam Stein
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The gripping tale of Pedigo Submission Fighting (PSF) reached new heights in the sixth episode of  Daisy Fresh Season 3, threading a captivating narrative that begins before the ADCC West Coast Trials, then oscillates between the ADCC open and the transformative growth of the PSF team back in Mount Vernon.

In a poignant scene, the camera pans through the now-vacant sheds that once housed the dedicated athletes of PSF. Nostalgia hangs heavy in the air as they confront the reality of leaving their unconventional lodgings. Still, the essence of the team, their tenacity and adaptability, is on display once again. The athletes quickly find new living situations thanks to Heath Pedigo's and others' proactive efforts. Jesse Noell, a Pedigo fighter, purchased a former church, intending to convert it into a bunkhouse for fellow athletes. Amidst the uncertainty, a beacon of resilience shone through in the form of the PSF team.

Shifting to the ADCC West Coast Trials, Couch is bested in the quarterfinals of the 88kg division, battling an injured AC Joint from his bout against Gordon Ryan. However, this bump in the road was lost behind  the shadow of Couch’s opportunity to challenge Jacob "Jay Rod" Rodriguez — the West Coast Trials 88kg champion — on Tezos WNO just one month before the ADCC World Championships.

Couch's tactical prowess and relentless pursuit of victory were beautifully matched with an orchestral score, providing an intense backdrop to his triumphant win. ADCC head organizer Mo Jassim's comments post-fight suggested that Couch would be named the 88kg secondary alternate for any last-minute withdrawals from the ADCC Worlds, a hint of vindication for the tenacious fighter.

A post-fight interview displayed Couch's deep-seated pride for his late grandmother, who had helped inspire him toward success. His victory was more than just a personal win; it was a tribute to the woman who believed in him when few others did.

As the ADCC Las Vegas Open occurs, the episode's location flutters back and forth, highlighting Daisy Fresh's competitors' performances at the Open and their progressions back home. Just after CJ Murdock finished a beautiful high-elbow guillotine, the focus shifted back to Mount Vernon to the recent lifestyle changes of the Murdocks. The family discusses their transition from living in sheds and cars to a proper house, emphasizing the life-changing impact of the PSF family on their lives.

A new addition to the team, Rosa Walsh, an Irish brown belt, reveals her reason for moving stateside. She has discovered a sense of belonging in the camaraderie and equality she experienced with the PSF team, noting her "pure joy" since her decision to stay. Then shifting back to the tournament action, Walsh gos on to win her division at the ADCC Open, taking out world-class opposition in the process.

The episode shifts back to Mount Vernon, focusing on Alejandro Wajner, the newly appointed head coach of the Mount Vernon high school wrestling team. With Pedigo athletes Michael Pixley and Tad Cravens as assistant coaches, they have grown the team from a modest six wrestlers to a thriving unit, with Jared Shafer as a shining example of their success. Crediting his achievements to his years under the tutelage of Heath Pedigo, Wajner experiences a unique full-circle moment.

Back at the Open, Wajner returns to the mats after a year-long injury, winning four matches before falling. Michael Pixley dominates his division with a 75% submission rate, defeating multiple black belts while still a blue belt. Finally, Jacob Couch closes the show for Pedigo as he sweeps through his weight division with all submissions. Ultimately, the Daisy Fresh team is crowned ADCC Las Vegas Open adult division champions while dealing with the challenges of the transition out of the laundromat-gym back in Mount Vernon.

Episode six of Daisy Fresh is a testament to the team's growth. The athletes of PSF have emerged from their humble beginnings in the abandoned laundromat, evolving into a dynamic, resilient force that continues to make waves in the world of jiu-jitsu and beyond. The trials they face and the victories they earn inspire us, reminding us that the journey to greatness is often paved with adversity and fueled by an unwavering spirit.