From left, Ernie Amparan, Tom Conner and X-Factor owner Chris Jackson pose for a picture following a recent tournament. The local X-Factor Training Facility will attempt to put its name on the map Saturday.

Located on the corner of Pecan and Fourth Street, the small, relatively unknown gymnasium is home to a group of dedicated students who spend hours trying to master mixed martial arts.

Five members -- Brandon Walker, Kacey Tucker, Chris Thurman, Tyler Conner and Tom Conner -- will put their skills to the test Saturday at the Battle of HTown, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and submission wrestling tournament with over 140 divisions.

The group leaves today for weigh-ins, and the tournament gets under way Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at the Atascocita High School in the Houston suburb of Humble.

In addition to cardio and Jui-

of H-Town

Jitsu training sessions, team members must adhere to a strict nutritional program and sign a contract agreeing to sobriety and community service.

It is all part of owners Chris and Becky Jackson's desire to use the facility as a way to reach out to youths in the community.

"Let's be honest, there is nothing in this town for our young people to do," Chris Jackson said. "Too often, they are so bored that they tend to get in trouble. Giving them a place like X-Factor to come and work out keeps them from getting into trouble."

With little finances, the Jacksons reach out to people with similar passions for youth to help keep their doors open, and they participate in numerous fundraisers.

"A lot of expense is incurred, and most of our students can't even afford the $30 monthly fee we charge which simply covers the electric [bill]," Jackson said.

The facility is open to the public and currently offers Jui-Jitsu classes to children ages 7 to 10. Another class for ages 11-13 is set to begin after this weekend's tournament, and the owners hope to soon add a women's self-defense class.