Led by Professor Jim Thrift, a 5th-degree black belt under Grandmaster Relson Gracie, Calvert MMA Academy® offers authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, practical self-defense, and structured training for kids, teens, and adults.
Whether your goal is confidence, fitness, competition, or real-world protection, our academy provides professional instruction in a supportive, family-friendly environment.
Class availability is limited. Start today.
Getting started should be simple. Our New Student Foundations program is the best way to experience training at Calvert MMA Academy® before enrolling.
Your Foundations trial includes:
Up to 4 beginner-friendly training sessions
14 days to complete your classes
Academy orientation and facility tour
Access to our member app and training resources during your trial
No experience required.
If you join, your $49 is credited toward enrollment.
Call or Text: 410-257-5425
Contact Us
Our curriculum is rooted in the original Gracie self-defense system and taught with a focus on timing, leverage, control, and real-world effectiveness—not just sport.
Professor Jim Thrift has trained directly under Grandmaster Relson Gracie for decades and teaches one of the most authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu programs in Southern Maryland.
Professor Jim Thrift is a 5th-degree black belt under Grandmaster Relson Gracie, a retired U.S. Secret Service gun carrier, and a Navy veteran with more than 40 years of martial arts experience.
He personally oversees instruction and has built a team of experienced coaches known for professionalism, technical ability, and integrity.
Our students learn from a proven instructor team that includes black belts, experienced coaches, and active competitors. That matters—especially for kids, beginners, and anyone looking for quality instruction they can trust.
Train up to seven days per week at both locations:
Calvert MMA Academy® — Sunderland, MD
Lineage BJJ® — California, MD
One membership gives you access to both academies, one curriculum, and one team under the Team LINEAGE® banner.
We serve real people—not just elite athletes. Students of all ages and experience levels train in a structured environment built on discipline, teamwork, and steady improvement.
Beginner-friendly classes with a strong focus on fundamentals, self-defense, control, and confidence.
Our youth programs teach focus, respect, discipline, and real self-defense in a fun, structured setting.
Mat Munchkins (Ages 3–4)
Little Sharks (Ages 5–7)
Junior Grapplers (Ages 8–13)
Youth classes may reach capacity quickly, and waitlists may apply.
Our training emphasizes composure, control, awareness, and practical self-defense—skills that translate directly to the demands of military and first responder work.
Students who want to compete will train with a team that consistently produces champions. Competition is optional. Quality training is not.
Our program is built around Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and practical self-defense for real-world application.
Defense against punches, grabs, holds, and headlocks
Escapes from wall pins and ground attacks
Control positions and positional dominance
Weapon awareness and defense concepts
Wrestling, Judo, and appropriate striking integration
Every technique is designed to work under pressure, regardless of size, strength, or athletic ability.
Team LINEAGE® consistently produces champions across kids, teens, and adult divisions.
2025 Good Fight Submission-Only World Champions — Kids, Teens, and Adults
Multiple Good Fight Team State Championships
Proven results across youth and adult competition divisions
These results reflect the quality of our instruction, the structure of our program, and the commitment of our students.
8 Classes Per Month
12 Classes Per Month
Unlimited Training
Access to both locations
Member app with curriculum videos, training logs, and academy resources
Month-to-month options are available at a higher rate for added flexibility.
Some programs approach capacity quickly. Early registration is recommended.
Visit the academy, meet the instructors, and experience the difference for yourself.
Start with New Student Foundations and see why so many families across Southern Maryland choose Calvert MMA Academy® and Team LINEAGE®.
Call or Text: 410-257-5425
Contact Us
📍 25 Dalrymple Rd, Sunderland, MD 20689
We are not a belt factory. We are not a fight club.
We are a professional martial arts academy built on discipline, respect, accountability, and real results.
From beginners to black belts, every student matters here.
If you live in Calvert, St. Mary’s, Charles, or Anne Arundel Counties, this is your academy.
Calvert MMA Academy® — Where Real Training Begins.
Team LINEAGE® Continues the Legacy.
Open Mat is a time for active members of Calvert MMA Academy® and Lineage BJJ® to train freely outside of structured classes. During Open Mat, students can drill techniques, roll with teammates, work on specific positions, or simply get extra mat time in a relaxed but respectful training environment.
This session is open to all active members, regardless of rank or experience level. It’s an opportunity to improve your skills, ask questions, experiment with techniques, and build camaraderie with teammates.
We welcome visiting grapplers and friends from other academies. However, all guests must be approved in advance before attending.
If you would like to visit Open Mat:
• You must contact us ahead of time through our website contact form or by phone
• You must train at another academy or be invited by a current member
• Walk-ins are not permitted
This policy helps us maintain a safe, clean, and respectful training environment for our members.
• Open rolling and positional sparring
• Time to drill techniques with teammates
• Gi or No-Gi depending on the session
• A relaxed but respectful atmosphere focused on learning and improvement
Open Mat is a great way to get additional training time, sharpen your skills, and connect with the Team Lineage community.
• Active Calvert MMA / Lineage BJJ members
• Approved visiting grapplers from other academies
If you are a visiting student from another academy and would like to join us, please contact us in advance so we can coordinate your visit.
Call: 410-257-5425
or
Contact us through the website
We look forward to training with you.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+)
This class is designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Techniques are taught with flexibility in mind—beginners will receive simplified instruction to build a strong foundation, while more experienced students will have the opportunity to explore advanced concepts and details.
Each session includes a mix of technique instruction, drilling, and live rolling to ensure all participants can grow at their own pace. Whether you’re just starting your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class provides a dynamic and inclusive environment to meet your training needs.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to improve their skills, refine their technique, and connect with the Lineage BJJ community.
Youth Intermediate-Advanced / Competition Class
This class is designed for experienced youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners who are ready to take their training to the next level. Tailored for intermediate and advanced students, this session focuses on refining techniques, improving strategy, and preparing for competition.
Students will engage in advanced drills, positional sparring, and live rolling to enhance their technical abilities and develop a deeper understanding of Jiu-Jitsu concepts. Competition-specific scenarios and strategies may also be introduced to help students build confidence and performance under pressure.
This class provides a challenging yet supportive environment where youth athletes can sharpen their skills, improve their fitness, and grow as martial artists. Prior experience or instructor approval is required to participate.
Adult Beginner Fundamentals (Ages 14+)
This one-hour class is designed for adults and teens (ages 14+) who are new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or looking to strengthen their foundational skills. The first 10 minutes of class are self-directed, allowing students to choose how they prepare—whether through stretching, calisthenics, light rolling, or working with a partner.
After the warm-up, instructors lead the class through essential techniques, focusing on key movements, positions, and transitions that form the foundation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Positional drilling and practical applications are often included to help students develop confidence and fluidity in their training.
While this class is ideal for beginners, intermediate and advanced students are encouraged to attend to refine their skills and reinforce their fundamentals.
Adult Beginner Fundamentals provides a welcoming and structured environment for learning self-defense, improving fitness, and building confidence on the mats.
Open Mat Training at Calvert MMA
Open Mat is a self-guided training session available to practitioners of all skill levels. Use this time to drill techniques, spar with teammates, and refine your strategies in a relaxed and collaborative environment. Whether you're a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced student preparing for competition, Open Mat provides the flexibility to train at your own pace.
This is an opportunity to explore techniques, problem-solve, and develop your game without structured instruction. Train with teammates, share knowledge, and continue growing as part of the Calvert MMA community.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+)
This class is designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Techniques are taught with flexibility in mind—beginners will receive simplified instruction to build a strong foundation, while more experienced students will have the opportunity to explore advanced concepts and details.
Each session includes a mix of technique instruction, drilling, and live rolling to ensure all participants can grow at their own pace. Whether you’re just starting your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class provides a dynamic and inclusive environment to meet your training needs.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to improve their skills, refine their technique, and connect with the Lineage BJJ community.
Mat Munchkins (Ages 3-4)
This 30-minute class is specially designed for our youngest martial artists, ages 3 to 4. Mat Munchkins introduces kids to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a fun, safe, and age-appropriate environment.
Each session begins with a short warm-up to get kids moving and ready for class. Students will then practice basic movements, learn simple techniques, and engage in activities that promote coordination, listening skills, and teamwork. Classes often conclude with a fun game designed to reinforce Jiu-Jitsu principles while keeping young learners engaged and excited.
Mat Munchkins is the perfect introduction to martial arts, helping children develop confidence, focus, and a love for learning on the mats.
Little Sharks (Ages 5-7)
This 45-minute class is designed for kids ages 5 to 7, introducing them to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a fun and engaging environment. Classes begin with a warm-up to get kids moving and ready for training. Afterward, students will review a previously taught technique and learn a new one, focusing on foundational movements and self-defense skills.
Each class concludes with a game or activity designed to reinforce coordination, functional strength, and the principles of Jiu-Jitsu while keeping young students excited and motivated. Little Sharks is the perfect blend of learning, fitness, and fun, helping kids develop discipline, confidence, and teamwork.
Jr. Grapplers (Ages 8-13)
This hour-long class is designed for kids ages 8 to 13, focusing on building a solid foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while enhancing physical fitness, coordination, and confidence. Each session begins with a 5-10 minute warm-up to prepare students for training. Students will then learn 2-3 techniques, followed by positional drilling to reinforce the day’s lessons.
When time allows, classes may conclude with a fun, Jiu-Jitsu-related game or activity designed to improve functional strength, coordination, or introduce elements of competitive grappling. Jr. Grapplers is a well-rounded class that develops self-defense skills, discipline, and teamwork in a supportive and engaging environment.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+) / NOGI
This class focuses on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the No-Gi format, offering a dynamic and fast-paced training environment suitable for all skill levels. Techniques are adjusted to meet the needs of both beginners and advanced practitioners—simplified for those building a foundation and more detailed for experienced students seeking to refine their game.
The session includes instruction on No-Gi-specific techniques, positional drills, and live rolling to help students improve their grappling skills without the traditional gi. Whether you're new to No-Gi or looking to enhance your skills, this class provides the perfect opportunity to explore this exciting style of Jiu-Jitsu.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is ideal for anyone interested in self-defense, fitness, or competition preparation in the No-Gi format.
Open Mat Training at Calvert MMA
Open Mat is a self-guided training session available to practitioners of all skill levels. Use this time to drill techniques, spar with teammates, and refine your strategies in a relaxed and collaborative environment. Whether you're a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced student preparing for competition, Open Mat provides the flexibility to train at your own pace.
This is an opportunity to explore techniques, problem-solve, and develop your game without structured instruction. Train with teammates, share knowledge, and continue growing as part of the Calvert MMA community.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+)
This class is designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Techniques are taught with flexibility in mind—beginners will receive simplified instruction to build a strong foundation, while more experienced students will have the opportunity to explore advanced concepts and details.
Each session includes a mix of technique instruction, drilling, and live rolling to ensure all participants can grow at their own pace. Whether you’re just starting your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class provides a dynamic and inclusive environment to meet your training needs.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to improve their skills, refine their technique, and connect with the Lineage BJJ community.
First Responder Control Tactics Training
ATTENTION: Capt. Mounts retired effective Sept 30, 2025. This class now runs about every other week, depending on instructor availability. Please contact us or join the mailing list before attending to confirm the session.
A one-hour weekly class designed exclusively for active first responders, providing practical self-defense techniques and scenario-based training. This session focuses on control tactics, threat management, and situational awareness, ensuring first responders have additional tools to enhance their safety in real-world situations.
⚠️ This training does not supersede agency policies or state law. Techniques shared are meant to supplement professional training, not replace official departmental procedures.
Class Details:
✅ Open to all active first responders (law enforcement, EMS, fire, etc.).
✅ No cost – this training is offered free of charge as a way to give back.
✅ Athletic wear recommended – just bring a drink to stay hydrated.
This class provides a safe and collaborative environment to refine skills, discuss real-world scenarios, and train with other first responders. Join us each week and continue developing the skills that keep you safe in the line of duty.
Youth Intermediate-Advanced / Competition Class
This class is designed for experienced youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners who are ready to take their training to the next level. Tailored for intermediate and advanced students, this session focuses on refining techniques, improving strategy, and preparing for competition.
Students will engage in advanced drills, positional sparring, and live rolling to enhance their technical abilities and develop a deeper understanding of Jiu-Jitsu concepts. Competition-specific scenarios and strategies may also be introduced to help students build confidence and performance under pressure.
This class provides a challenging yet supportive environment where youth athletes can sharpen their skills, improve their fitness, and grow as martial artists. Prior experience or instructor approval is required to participate.
Adult Beginner Fundamentals (Ages 14+)
This one-hour class is designed for adults and teens (ages 14+) who are new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or looking to strengthen their foundational skills. The first 10 minutes of class are self-directed, allowing students to choose how they prepare—whether through stretching, calisthenics, light rolling, or working with a partner.
After the warm-up, instructors lead the class through essential techniques, focusing on key movements, positions, and transitions that form the foundation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Positional drilling and practical applications are often included to help students develop confidence and fluidity in their training.
While this class is ideal for beginners, intermediate and advanced students are encouraged to attend to refine their skills and reinforce their fundamentals.
Adult Beginner Fundamentals provides a welcoming and structured environment for learning self-defense, improving fitness, and building confidence on the mats.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+) / NOGI
This class focuses on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the No-Gi format, offering a dynamic and fast-paced training environment suitable for all skill levels. Techniques are adjusted to meet the needs of both beginners and advanced practitioners—simplified for those building a foundation and more detailed for experienced students seeking to refine their game.
The session includes instruction on No-Gi-specific techniques, positional drills, and live rolling to help students improve their grappling skills without the traditional gi. Whether you're new to No-Gi or looking to enhance your skills, this class provides the perfect opportunity to explore this exciting style of Jiu-Jitsu.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is ideal for anyone interested in self-defense, fitness, or competition preparation in the No-Gi format.
Open Mat Training at Calvert MMA
Open Mat is a self-guided training session available to practitioners of all skill levels. Use this time to drill techniques, spar with teammates, and refine your strategies in a relaxed and collaborative environment. Whether you're a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced student preparing for competition, Open Mat provides the flexibility to train at your own pace.
This is an opportunity to explore techniques, problem-solve, and develop your game without structured instruction. Train with teammates, share knowledge, and continue growing as part of the Calvert MMA community.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+)
This class is designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Techniques are taught with flexibility in mind—beginners will receive simplified instruction to build a strong foundation, while more experienced students will have the opportunity to explore advanced concepts and details.
Each session includes a mix of technique instruction, drilling, and live rolling to ensure all participants can grow at their own pace. Whether you’re just starting your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class provides a dynamic and inclusive environment to meet your training needs.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to improve their skills, refine their technique, and connect with the Lineage BJJ community.
Mat Munchkins (Ages 3-4)
This 30-minute class is specially designed for our youngest martial artists, ages 3 to 4. Mat Munchkins introduces kids to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a fun, safe, and age-appropriate environment.
Each session begins with a short warm-up to get kids moving and ready for class. Students will then practice basic movements, learn simple techniques, and engage in activities that promote coordination, listening skills, and teamwork. Classes often conclude with a fun game designed to reinforce Jiu-Jitsu principles while keeping young learners engaged and excited.
Mat Munchkins is the perfect introduction to martial arts, helping children develop confidence, focus, and a love for learning on the mats.
Little Sharks (Ages 5-7)
This 45-minute class is designed for kids ages 5 to 7, introducing them to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a fun and engaging environment. Classes begin with a warm-up to get kids moving and ready for training. Afterward, students will review a previously taught technique and learn a new one, focusing on foundational movements and self-defense skills.
Each class concludes with a game or activity designed to reinforce coordination, functional strength, and the principles of Jiu-Jitsu while keeping young students excited and motivated. Little Sharks is the perfect blend of learning, fitness, and fun, helping kids develop discipline, confidence, and teamwork.
Jr. Grapplers (Ages 8-13)
This hour-long class is designed for kids ages 8 to 13, focusing on building a solid foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while enhancing physical fitness, coordination, and confidence. Each session begins with a 5-10 minute warm-up to prepare students for training. Students will then learn 2-3 techniques, followed by positional drilling to reinforce the day’s lessons.
When time allows, classes may conclude with a fun, Jiu-Jitsu-related game or activity designed to improve functional strength, coordination, or introduce elements of competitive grappling. Jr. Grapplers is a well-rounded class that develops self-defense skills, discipline, and teamwork in a supportive and engaging environment.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+)
This class is designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Techniques are taught with flexibility in mind—beginners will receive simplified instruction to build a strong foundation, while more experienced students will have the opportunity to explore advanced concepts and details.
Each session includes a mix of technique instruction, drilling, and live rolling to ensure all participants can grow at their own pace. Whether you’re just starting your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class provides a dynamic and inclusive environment to meet your training needs.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to improve their skills, refine their technique, and connect with the Lineage BJJ community.
Open Mat Training at Calvert MMA
Open Mat is a self-guided training session available to practitioners of all skill levels. Use this time to drill techniques, spar with teammates, and refine your strategies in a relaxed and collaborative environment. Whether you're a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced student preparing for competition, Open Mat provides the flexibility to train at your own pace.
This is an opportunity to explore techniques, problem-solve, and develop your game without structured instruction. Train with teammates, share knowledge, and continue growing as part of the Calvert MMA community.
BJJ - All Levels (Ages 14+)
This class is designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Techniques are taught with flexibility in mind—beginners will receive simplified instruction to build a strong foundation, while more experienced students will have the opportunity to explore advanced concepts and details.
Each session includes a mix of technique instruction, drilling, and live rolling to ensure all participants can grow at their own pace. Whether you’re just starting your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this class provides a dynamic and inclusive environment to meet your training needs.
Open to ages 14 and up, this class is perfect for anyone seeking to improve their skills, refine their technique, and connect with the Lineage BJJ community.
Youth Intermediate-Advanced / Competition Class
This class is designed for experienced youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners who are ready to take their training to the next level. Tailored for intermediate and advanced students, this session focuses on refining techniques, improving strategy, and preparing for competition.
Students will engage in advanced drills, positional sparring, and live rolling to enhance their technical abilities and develop a deeper understanding of Jiu-Jitsu concepts. Competition-specific scenarios and strategies may also be introduced to help students build confidence and performance under pressure.
This class provides a challenging yet supportive environment where youth athletes can sharpen their skills, improve their fitness, and grow as martial artists. Prior experience or instructor approval is required to participate.
Boxing & Muay Thai Striking Class with Bill Duff
📅 Schedule: Every other Friday at 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Calvert MMA, 25 Dalrymple Road, Sunderland, MD
This class focuses on technical striking, emphasizing Western Boxing and Muay Thai fundamentals. Instruction covers precision striking, footwork, power development, and strategic application. The class structure is designed for all experience levels, from beginners to advanced students refining their technique.
Required Equipment:
All equipment must be properly cleaned and disinfected after each use.
Open Mat Training at Lineage BJJ®
Step onto the mats and take your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey to the next level with Open Mat Training at Lineage BJJ®. Open to practitioners of all ages and skill levels, this self-guided training session allows you to drill techniques, roll with teammates, and refine your strategies in a relaxed and collaborative environment.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced student sharpening your game for competition, Open Mat Training offers a flexible way to improve your skills and connect with our welcoming BJJ community.
Why Join Open Mat at Lineage BJJ®?
Check our schedule for the next Open Mat Training session and experience the freedom to train, learn, and grow in a supportive environment. Whether you’re here for fitness, competition, or self-defense, Open Mat is an essential part of your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey.
Little Sharks (Ages 5-7)
This 45-minute class is designed for kids ages 5 to 7, introducing them to the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a fun and engaging environment. Classes begin with a warm-up to get kids moving and ready for training. Afterward, students will review a previously taught technique and learn a new one, focusing on foundational movements and self-defense skills.
Each class concludes with a game or activity designed to reinforce coordination, functional strength, and the principles of Jiu-Jitsu while keeping young students excited and motivated. Little Sharks is the perfect blend of learning, fitness, and fun, helping kids develop discipline, confidence, and teamwork.
Jr. Grapplers (Ages 8-13)
This hour-long class is designed for kids ages 8 to 13, focusing on building a solid foundation in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu while enhancing physical fitness, coordination, and confidence. Each session begins with a 5-10 minute warm-up to prepare students for training. Students will then learn 2-3 techniques, followed by positional drilling to reinforce the day’s lessons.
When time allows, classes may conclude with a fun, Jiu-Jitsu-related game or activity designed to improve functional strength, coordination, or introduce elements of competitive grappling. Jr. Grapplers is a well-rounded class that develops self-defense skills, discipline, and teamwork in a supportive and engaging environment.
Adult Beginner Fundamentals (Ages 14+)
This one-hour class is designed for adults and teens (ages 14+) who are new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or looking to strengthen their foundational skills. The first 10 minutes of class are self-directed, allowing students to choose how they prepare—whether through stretching, calisthenics, light rolling, or working with a partner.
After the warm-up, instructors lead the class through essential techniques, focusing on key movements, positions, and transitions that form the foundation of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Positional drilling and practical applications are often included to help students develop confidence and fluidity in their training.
While this class is ideal for beginners, intermediate and advanced students are encouraged to attend to refine their skills and reinforce their fundamentals.
Adult Beginner Fundamentals provides a welcoming and structured environment for learning self-defense, improving fitness, and building confidence on the mats.
Open Mat Training at Calvert MMA
Open Mat is a self-guided training session available to practitioners of all skill levels. Use this time to drill techniques, spar with teammates, and refine your strategies in a relaxed and collaborative environment. Whether you're a beginner looking to build confidence or an advanced student preparing for competition, Open Mat provides the flexibility to train at your own pace.
This is an opportunity to explore techniques, problem-solve, and develop your game without structured instruction. Train with teammates, share knowledge, and continue growing as part of the Calvert MMA community.
Relson Gracie
James Thrift
Mike Tran
Kevin Southworth
Jack Sudduth
Seun
Porter Foley
Bill Duff
Kim Breedlove