I am writing this open letter in the hope that accountability will finally come.
For years, women came to Zuma seeking empowerment through martial arts, only to be met with:
Sexual harassment and explicit sexual comments about their bodies, appearances, and personal lives
Unwanted, sexual touching during training and rolling
Sexual propositions, requests for nude photoshoots, and grooming disguised as “coaching”
The sexualization of underage girls in the gym
Manipulation, isolation, and intimidation to silence women who tried to speak up
On Friday, July 11, I posted a thread on the r/Victoria and r/BJJ subreddits sharing the sexual harassment I experienced at Zuma under owner Adam Zugec. My goal was to warn other women athletes and urge them not to train there.
Since posting, twelve women have come forward with their own stories of sexual harassment, sexual touching, and coercive, predatory behaviour by Adam Zugec. Many men have also shared their negative experiences and voiced their support, recognizing the toxic environment that has existed for years at Zuma.
This is not simply “inappropriate.” This is a serious abuse of power and trust that has traumatized women and driven them away from a sport they loved.
At least one woman has now chosen to go to the police.
We share our stories now because silence only enables further harm, and we believe accountability begins with telling the truth.
We call for:
✅ Adam Zugec to permanently retire from coaching so that no more women are harmed under his leadership.
✅ Adam Zugec to publicly apologize to the victims and the community, acknowledge the harm caused by his sexual harassment, and misconduct, and take full accountability for his actions.
✅ Patrons, parents, and athletes to show solidarity with victims by no longer training at or supporting Zuma Martial Arts.
To everyone who has supported victims, shared resources, or interacted with the Reddit threads: thank you. Your solidarity matters, and it is helping women find their voice.
To anyone who has experienced harassment at Zuma or elsewhere: You are not alone. We see you. We believe you.
Please sign this open letter to show your support for those who have come forward and to demand accountability.
– Victims and former students of Zuma Combat and Social Club
📌 Read the original Reddit threads here for context and survivor stories: