Southern Maryland’s Premier Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, BJJ, and Self-Defense Program for Young Leaders
Ready to give your 8- to 13-year-old more than just an after-school activity? Our Jr. Grapplers program develops confident, disciplined young leaders through authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Designed specifically for this critical age group, our training goes beyond sport—equipping kids with real-world self-defense skills, strong character, and a champion mindset.
Led by Jim Thrift, a fifth-degree black belt under Grandmaster Relson Gracie, Calvert MMA Academy® is Southern Maryland’s only certified Gracie Jiu-Jitsu school—and the region’s most trusted name in youth martial arts.
Try Our Exclusive 5-Day VIP Trial Package: 2 Free Classes
Call: 410-257-5425 | Email: info@calvertmma.com
Why Jr. Grapplers?
Jr. Grapplers is a transformative program for 8- to 13-year-olds, offered at both our Sunderland (Calvert MMA) and California, MD (Lineage BJJ®) locations. Our program blends dynamic training, real self-defense, and personal development in a safe, structured environment. Students train only at their signup location unless otherwise approved.
Age-Appropriate Training: Structured classes that nurture responsibility, emotional resilience, and mental focus.
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu & BJJ Fundamentals: Authentic techniques including strikes, wrestling, and judo, with both self-defense and competition applications.
Life Skills That Stick: Build lasting confidence, discipline, teamwork, and the ability to overcome challenges.
Championship Proven: 2024 winners of 1st place at the Maryland State Championships (all categories) and 1st place at the World Championships for kids and teens.
Convenient Membership: One membership grants access to both locations—with classes based on where you register.
What Your Child Gains
Our structured yet fun environment fosters growth in body and mind:
Confidence & Resilience: Learn to navigate pressure, setbacks, and success.
Discipline & Focus: Stay on task with high-energy drills and clear instruction.
Strength & Coordination: Improve agility, balance, and strength in a controlled setting.
Real Self-Defense: Age-appropriate techniques drawn directly from Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and BJJ.
Progress Tracking: Families get access to our Online Members App with at-home drills, a full curriculum, and Gracie games.
A Safe, Supportive Environment
Our instructors create a structured but welcoming training space:
Clean & Healthy: Daily mat sanitation with non-toxic products.
Hospital-Grade Air Purification: Healthy air quality at all times.
Positive Accountability: We teach hygiene, manners, and sportsmanship.
Clear Expectations: Kids in this age group are expected to follow class guidelines. We partner with parents to maintain focus and progress.
Why Parents Choose Jr. Grapplers
Clear Results: Parents report improved confidence, discipline, and emotional strength.
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Certified: Not just BJJ—we’re the region’s only certified Relson Gracie school.
Optional Competition Track: Students may train for tournaments, but it’s never required.
Better Than Karate or Taekwondo: Unlike point-based or scripted martial arts, our system teaches practical, real-world self-defense from day one.
Foundation for Life: Jr. Grapplers students learn lessons they carry into adulthood.
How to Start
Classes often fill quickly—here’s how to begin:
Bring Comfortable Clothing: (T-shirt, shorts, or leggings). We’ll provide guidance on purchasing a Gi after registration.
Flexible Memberships
Monthly or Annual Plans: Choose what works for you.
Both Locations, One Price: Train at Calvert MMA (Sunderland) or Lineage BJJ (California, MD) as part of one team.
Value-Added Tools: InBody scans, the Online Academy, and nutrition tips support progress.
Join Southern Maryland’s Gracie Jiu-Jitsu & BJJ Leader
Since 2007, Calvert MMA Academy® and Lineage BJJ® have helped young leaders across Calvert County—from Sunderland to Prince Frederick—build confidence through real Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Gracie self-defense. Don’t settle for sport-only martial arts. Give your child the tools to grow strong in every way.
Try Our Exclusive 5-Day VIP Trial Package
Call: 410-257-5425 | Email: info@calvertmma.com
Calvert MMA Academy®
25 Dalrymple Rd, Sunderland, MD 20689
Want to learn more about how our youth Jiu-Jitsu programs work? Read our guide for parents on what to expect in class and discover how we support your child’s success—on and off the mats.