Kids Jiu Jitsu
Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Program
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
Monday through Friday
4:30-5:30 pm
Take downs class
Mondays and Wednesdays
5:30-6:30 pm
What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an incredible self-defense system based on the principals of technique and leverage, which allows its practitioners to defeat opponents of much greater size and strength.
Why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
95% of all fights end up on the ground. What if your child has to defend themselves against someone who is bigger and stronger than them? If they simply try to exchange punches and kicks, they may not stand a chance. What if someone forces them to the ground and starts attacking? It’s bad news if they’ve never learned Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which can effectively defeat an aggressive assailant using ground grappling techniques.
Would it benefit my child?
Absolutely! Jiu-Jitsu, which means “gentle art”, emphasizes the use of technique and leverage. So your child won’t have to rely on size, strength, or speed, while also learning to defend themselves and subdue their opponent in a safe and humane way without having to rely on kicks and punches if not necessary. Your child will develop physical awareness of balance, reflexes, flexibility and coordination, as well as build on the mental aspects of their personality such as self-esteem, discipline, confidence, compassion, and good work ethic. The classes are taught in a positive, fun, and friendly manner, so your child will enjoy learning the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
About Team GD Jiu-Jitsu
Team GD Jiu-Jitsu is one of the most respected teams in the Nation. Team GD Jiu-Jitsu has been ranked #1 School in the Adult Division at the AZSBJJF (AZ State Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) Ranking in 2009 , 2010 & 2011 and #1 School in the Kids Division at the AZSBJJF Ranking in 2011. Our goal is to build champions on the mat and in life. The child will be able to cope better with fear of failure and anxieties. The competition is not all about the win, it’s about the losses too. Competition will teach them how to deal with failure, to understand that we don’t win every time, and losing is not just acceptable, but is necessary.
The Kids Team competes from 4-6 times a year in their respective age, belt, and weight division. The Kids Team represents the young talent and continued growth of Jiu-Jitsu within Team GD Jiu-Jitsu and Nova Uniao. When competing in state/local events, the name, Team GD Jiu-Jitsu, is used; Nova Uniao is the team name used for IBJJF (national/international) events, helping the team unify with its counterparts located within the US and around the World.
Check out the latest article about GDJJ Academy on GracieMag, #1 Jiu-Jitsu Magazine in the World
Kids Team having fun in competitions
Kids Team after the 3rd AZ Kids Cup
Coaches
About Steve Rosenberg (Head Coach)
Steve Rosenberg is a Black Belt under Gustavo Dantas. Steve has been one of the standout competitors from Team GD Jiu-Jitsu since 2004, winning State, National and International titles. On top of his teaching and training responsibilities, Steve is also a registered E.M.T.
About Kristina Barlaan (Assistant Coach)
Kristina Barlaan is a purple belt under Gustavo Dantas. Kristina is one of the most active and successful competitors from team GD Jiu-Jitsu. Kristina has multiple International titles including 2010 Pan JJ Championship, 2009 & 2010 World Championship Bronze medalist, and 2010 Rio International Open Champion (Brazil). She is also the Women’s program head coach.
About Issa Able (Assistant Coach)
Issa Able is a purple belt under Gustavo Dantas. Issa is a 3x AZ State Champion, 3x U.S. National Champion, 2x Abu Dhabi World Pro Cup U.S. Trials Champion, and Silver Medalist of the 2010 World Championship. Issa, who was also a High School AZ State Runner up, is the Takedown Class coach.
About John Van Buren (Assistant Coach)
John Van Buren is a purple belt under Gustavo Dantas. John is a 2x AZ State Champion, IBJJF Las Vegas International Open Champion, and Silver medalist of the 2011 World Championship.
