January 31 - February 2

This week we began our new schedule and belt system.  The first classes were a huge success!  Both groups of kids - Little Champions (3-6) and Juniors (7-12) - did wonderful!  This week we will be focusing on the following techniques:

• achieving the clinch when your opponent strikes at you
• deashi harai (foot sweep)
• scissor sweep

Dear Parents,

This is a very exciting time for us in the Brazilian jiu-jitsu community. Over the last 5 years Brazilian jiu-jitsu has seen a phenomenal amount of growth.  Five years ago many Brazilian jiu-jitsu schools did not even offer kids’ classes. Gracie Barra has always been at the forefront of changing the face of jiu-jitsu in positive ways. As more children became involved with the sport of Brazilian jiu-jitsu we realized that change was needed to keep our children motivated and excited to keep training in jiu-jitsu.  We worked diligently with our Black Belts to implement a plan to improve our belt system for children. We are very happy to announce that these changes are finally here.

The existing belt system consists of 5 belts. Some children, maybe even yours, start as early as 3 years of age.  At that age children could spend as many as 13 years in our future champions program before moving on to adult classes. With only 5 belts available to them, they are not rewarded very often for their hard work and effort. Under the new belt system there will be 13 belts.  We are very excited to implement this system as it will offer much greater rewards for our children and it will allow much more flexibility for our instructors to make sure that the children are wearing the appropriate belt for their age and skill level.

For some of your children you will not even notice the change as the new system is based around the existing system. Some children will have different color stripes on their belts and some will be placed into a different belt altogether.

Also, in order to provide the highest quality of training and safety for your children we will be implementing a new class schedule for Little Champions and Juniors.  Little Champions (ages 3-6) will meet Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 4:15-5:00 pm.  Juniors (ages 7-12) will meet Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 5:05-5:55 pm.

We want to assure that everyone understands the new system and schedule and together with the instructors make the best decision if any adjustments are necessary. We will make this as exciting and fun for the children as possible.  The belt system and the new schedule will begin Tuesday, January 31st.

Sincerely yours,

Professor Magid Hage

GRACIE BARRA ESCONDIDO WILL BE CLOSED

DECEMBER 24 - JANUARY 1

REGULAR SCHEDULE RESUMES January 2, 2012

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

All Gracie Barra Escondido students are invited to attend this year’s Winter Training Camp in Vista, CA at San Shi Judo Club.  USJF members can attend free!  If you’re not a USJF member then you will need to become one at the camp for an annual fee of $50 (membership is good for one year).