Little Sharks (Ages 5–7)

Little Sharks kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class at Calvert MMA Academy

Little Sharks at Calvert MMA Academy®

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 build confidence, focus, coordination, and discipline while learning authentic Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a structured, family-friendly environment.

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 New Student Foundations

All new students begin with our New Student Foundations Pass. This gives your child a chance to experience class, meet the instructors, and make sure the program is a good fit before enrolling.

New Student Foundations Pass — $49

Up to 4 beginner-friendly training sessions
14 days to complete your classes
Academy orientation and introduction to class structure
Access to our member training app during the trial
Structured introduction to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

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

Reserve Your Child’s Foundations Pass

Call or Text 410-257-5425 | Contact Us

Why Parents Choose Little Sharks

Little Sharks classes combine movement, fun, and structured instruction to help children develop skills that carry over into school, sports, and everyday life.

Age-Appropriate Classes – Built for the attention span, energy, and development of 5–7-year-olds.
Authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu – Kids learn practical self-defense concepts through safe, beginner-friendly instruction.
Confidence & Focus – Students improve listening skills, discipline, and self-confidence.
Experienced Coaching – Instruction is guided by Professor Jim Thrift and Team LINEAGE®.
Proven Program – 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, positive, and supportive environment.

Confidence & Resilience – Kids grow by learning new skills and overcoming challenges.
Focus & Discipline – Students practice listening, following directions, and staying engaged.
Coordination & Balance – Drills improve agility, body awareness, and movement.
Self-Defense Foundations – Age-appropriate techniques drawn from Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and judo.

A Safe and Structured Training Environment

Daily Cleaning – Mats are disinfected regularly with safe cleaning products.
Hospital-Grade Air Purification – Clean air circulation throughout the facility.
Student Hygiene Education – Kids learn responsibility, cleanliness, and respect for the training space.
Clear Behavioral Expectations – Classes stay structured and focused so students can learn effectively.

Two Locations. One Team.

Students train within the Team LINEAGE® system and benefit from a consistent curriculum and coaching philosophy.

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® for kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and self-defense training.

Reserve Your Foundations Pass