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Jr. Grapplers

Jr. Grapplers at Calvert MMA Academy®: Building Champions for Ages 8–13

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:

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.