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SLU-Madrid Honors Junior Jack Montoya with the Student Athlete Award

by Isaiah Voss

Saint Louis University-Madrid's sports director, César Rioja, presented the SLU-Madrid Student Athlete Award to Jack Montoya, a junior majoring in political science and international relations.

Montoya began wrestling in the United States around the age of 12. Although he trained casually at first, he became fully dedicated to the sport during his final years of high school. After moving to Madrid, he transitioned into Brazilian jiujitsu (BJJ), a discipline that complemented his wrestling background. "The style of wrestling in American high schools translates very well to jiujitsu and mixed martial arts, so it was an easy transition," Montoya explained.

Over the past two years, Montoya has trained five days a week, totaling 12 hours per week. His dedication has paid off. Competing at 69 kg, he has already earned six gold medals in Spanish tournaments.

Man to the left gives a thumbs up and smiles at camera and student to his right looks on at camera while holding a sweater with the university logo. There is the university logo on the wall in the background behind a reception desk.

Sports Director César Rioja (left) and junior Jack Montoya (right) pose in front of San Ignacio Hall's reception when Montoya received his SLU-Madrid sweatshirt. Submitted photo.

Montoya also plays a key role outside of competition. He has spent two years as an instructor at Splinters Jiujitsu and MMA in Madrid's Cuatro Caminos neighborhood, a gym he joined when it first opened. He coaches American wrestling 10 hours a week. "It has been a great opportunity to teach and learn grappling," he says, giving a shoutout to the Splinters community for their support.

In addition to his athletic and teaching commitments, Montoya is a dedicated student with clear academic ambitions. After completing his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Relations, he plans to attend law school and become an attorney.

Sports Director César Rioja congratulates Montoya on his outstanding achievements, both in and out of the classroom. His discipline, leadership, and passion for his sport reflect the values of Saint Louis University and inspire its community.