Little Sharks (Ages 5–7)

Little Sharks at Calvert MMA Academy®: Building Confidence for Ages 5–7

Southern Maryland Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Self-Defense Program

Little Sharks is our beginner Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program designed specifically for children ages 5–7. At Calvert MMA Academy®, home of Team LINEAGE®, students develop confidence, focus, and discipline while learning authentic Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Our academy is led by Professor Jim Thrift, a 5th-degree black belt under Grandmaster Relson Gracie, and one of the most experienced instructors in the region.

Start with the New Student Foundations Pass

All new students begin with our Two-Week New Student Foundations Pass. This allows your child to experience real training, meet the instructors, and make sure the program is a great fit before committing to membership.

New Student Foundations Pass — $49

4 beginner-friendly training sessions
14 days to complete your sessions
Academy orientation and facility tour
Access to our member training app
Structured introduction to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

If you enroll, the $49 Foundations fee is credited toward membership.

Reserve Your Child’s Foundations Pass

Call: 410-257-5425 | Contact Us

Why Parents Choose the Little Sharks Program

Little Sharks classes combine movement, games, and structured learning so children develop skills that help them succeed both on and off the mat.

Age-Appropriate Classes – Designed for the attention span and development of young students.
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Fundamentals – Kids learn practical self-defense concepts through fun drills.
Confidence & Focus – Students build discipline, listening skills, and self-confidence.
Elite Coaching – Instruction guided by Professor Jim Thrift and Team LINEAGE®.
Championship Team – Home of multiple state champions and 2025 Good Fight Submission-Only World Champions.

What Your Child Will Learn

Little Sharks introduces the fundamentals of Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a safe and supportive environment.

Confidence & Resilience – Kids gain confidence by learning new skills and overcoming challenges.
Focus & Discipline – Students practice listening and following structured instruction.
Coordination & Balance – Drills improve agility, strength, and body awareness.
Self-Defense Foundations – Age-appropriate techniques drawn from BJJ, wrestling, and judo.

A Safe and Structured Training Environment

Daily Cleaning – Mats disinfected with safe cleaning products.
Hospital-Grade Air Purification – Clean air circulation for every class.
Student Hygiene Education – Kids learn responsibility and cleanliness.
Clear Behavioral Expectations – Classes remain structured and focused for effective learning.

Two Locations. One Team.

Students can train within the Team LINEAGE® system at both academies.

Calvert MMA Academy®
25 Dalrymple Rd
Sunderland, MD

Lineage BJJ®
California, Maryland

Ready to Get Started?

Begin with the New Student Foundations Pass and see why families across Southern Maryland trust Calvert MMA Academy®.

Reserve Your Foundations Pass