As we wrap up our spring gi training cycle at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, it’s time for one of our favorite events of the year—Ruckus in the Hills, our in-house youth tournament! This special event brings together our Peewee, Kids, and Juniors for a day of friendly competition, celebration, and learning.
Scheduled just before our transition into summer no-gi training, the Ruckus in the Hills gives students the chance to apply all they’ve learned over the past few months in a supportive, fun, and safe environment. Whether it’s their first time competing or they’re already seasoned scrappers, each competitor will step onto the mat surrounded by coaches, teammates, and family cheering them on.
And of course—what’s a tournament without medals?
This year’s Ruckus in the Hills features unique custom-designed medals created just for our tournament. These one-of-a-kind awards are more than just metal—they’re a symbol of hard work, courage, and growth. Every child who steps out to compete is a winner in our eyes, and we’re proud to celebrate their effort and attitude.
We warmly invite all families and friends to come out and support these young athletes. Bring your energy, your cheers, and your cameras—this is a moment your kids will remember. The studio will be full of smiles, high fives, and community spirit as our students put their skills to the test one last time in the gi before we dive into a summer of no-gi fun.
We believe competition is one of the best tools for building confidence, character, and resilience. That’s why we keep it in-house and accessible for all levels—no travel, no pressure, just great energy and good rolls.
Are you looking for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) in El Dorado Hills, Folsom, or the Sacramento area? At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our competitors continue to showcase high-level skills in tournaments, proving why our academy is a great place to train in Northern California.
On March 22, our team competed at the JJWL (Jiu Jitsu World League) tournament in Stockton, bringing home two individual championship titles!
Jerel Wins the Black Belt Division
Jerel displayed elite-level technique in the black belt division, defeating tough opponents to claim gold. His dominant performances in passing, guard work, and submissions highlight his skill and dedication he brings to EDH Jiu Jitsu for practitioners of all skill levels.
Sean Takes Gold in the Purple Belt Division
Sean battled through the purple belt division, securing victory with a mix of precision and resilience. His win showcases the high-quality training and competitive mindset he has developed through training in Jiu Jitsunear Folsom and El Dorado Hills.
Why Train at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu?
Whether you’re interested in self-defense, fitness, competition, or just looking for a great place to train BJJ in El Dorado Hills, Folsom, or Cameron Park, our academy offers:
Expert instruction from coaches
Classes for all levels, from beginners to advanced competitors
A welcoming and supportive community
A structured curriculum that helps you improve
Opportunities to compete and test your skills
If you’re searching for “Jiu Jitsu near me” in El Dorado Hills, Folsom, or Placerville, come try a class at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu!
Congratulations again to Jerel and Sean for their victories at JJWL Stockton! If you’re ready to start your own BJJ journey, contact us today and take the first step on the mats!
On March 16, our El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu team made a strong statement at the BJJ Tour Bay Area event, bringing home multiple medals in both youth and adult divisions. Our competitors showcased their hard work, discipline, and technical skill, proving once again that EDH Jiu Jitsu is a force to be reckoned with on the competition scene.
Youth Competitors Dominate the Mats
Our young athletes put on an incredible performance, bringing home a total of four gold medals and four silver medals.
Gold Medalists:
• Hazel
• Brett
• Geoffrey
• Urijah
Silver Medalists:
• Claire
• Koa
• Eli
• Aiden
Each of these young competitors displayed resilience, sharp technique, and outstanding sportsmanship throughout their matches. Their commitment to training at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu was evident in their performances, and we couldn’t be prouder of their achievements.
Adult Division Success: Purple Belt Podium Finishes
Our adult competitors also had a stellar day on the mats in the highly competitive purple belt division.
Sean took home the gold medal, proving his dominance in the division with technical precision and strategic control.
Danny earned a silver medal, displaying resilience and high-level grappling against tough competition.
These results reflect the dedication and hard work that both Sean and Danny put into their training at EDH Jiu Jitsu. The purple belt division is known for its intensity, and securing podium finishes is a huge accomplishment.
The Road Ahead
This event was just another step in our journey. With upcoming tournaments on the horizon, our competitors will continue to sharpen their skills and test themselves on the mat. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just beginning your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey, there’s no better time to train at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu.
Join Us on the Mats
If you’re looking to take your training to the next level or want to get started in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in El Dorado Hills, we invite you to join us for a class. Our experienced instructors, supportive team environment, and structured training approach will help you reach your goals—whether that’s competition, self-defense, or personal growth.
This past weekend, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu had a strong showing at the IBJJF Sacramento Open, with competitors stepping up to the challenge and representing the team with skill and determination.
Jerel Steps Up to the Challenge
Black belt Jerel took on a tough challenge by moving down in age and up in weight to compete. Despite the odds, he fought hard and showed why he’s one of the most technical and experienced grapplers in the gym. Though he didn’t come away with the win, his willingness to push himself outside his comfort zone is what makes him such a great competitor and leader on the mats.
Double Gold at Purple Belt
El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu’s purple belts made a statement at the tournament. Both Danny and Ryan had dominant performances, each securing gold in their respective divisions. Their hard work and consistency in training paid off, and they both continue to raise the standard for what it means to be a competitor at EDH Jiu Jitsu.
Youth Competitors Shine
Our youth competitors showed incredible skill and heart as they stepped onto the competition mats. Hazel, Eli, and Adam all fought hard, displaying the technique and resilience they’ve been developing in class. Hazel secured gold, showcasing sharp technique and determination throughout her matches. Eli and Adam also put on strong performances, demonstrating that the future of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is bright.
Building for the Future
Competing at an IBJJF tournament is always a great test of skill and mindset, and our team continues to step up to the challenge. Whether it’s seasoned black belts like Jerel pushing their limits, experienced purple belts claiming gold, or our youth competitors gaining valuable experience, every event is an opportunity for growth.
Congratulations to all who competed and thank you to the teammates who came to support, coach, and cheer! See you on the mats as we continue to train and improve for the next one.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we often see new students come in with mixed feelings about competition. Some are excited by the challenge, while others feel a sense of pressure or anxiety. It’s easy to fall into the trap of seeing competition as a win-or-lose scenario, where victory means everything and defeat feels like a failure. However, Jiu Jitsu teaches us that competition is far more complex—and, when approached correctly, it can become a tool for personal growth and learning how to be competitive in a healthy, sustainable way.
Facing the Reality of Competition
The reality of competition in Jiu Jitsu is that you won’t always win. Even at the highest levels, athletes experience losses. It’s part of the game. But that doesn’t mean failure. Instead, each match—win or lose—is an opportunity to learn more about your technique, mindset, and approach. Whether you’re competing in a small in-house tournament like our Ruckus in the Hills or stepping onto the mat at the IBJJF Nationals, you will always face moments that test your patience, composure, and skill.
What Jiu Jitsu reveals is that success isn’t just defined by standing on the podium but by the progress made on the journey. Every time you step on the mat, you have an opportunity to be better than you were before. Sometimes, the biggest gains come from facing the toughest losses.
Healthy Competition Starts on the Mat
The beauty of Jiu Jitsu is how it teaches you to be competitive in a healthy way. Training on the mat isn’t about dominating your opponent every round; it’s about improving yourself. You develop grit, learn how to handle pressure, and push beyond your limits without sacrificing respect for your training partners or yourself. The competitive environment in Jiu Jitsu fosters camaraderie—everyone is there to help each other get better.
Healthy competition in Jiu Jitsu means that you compete to improve, not to “beat” the other person. Your teammates are your biggest supporters, and together, you lift each other up. By sharpening each other’s skills, you develop a mindset that goes beyond a need to “win at all costs.”
Learning to Lose Gracefully
Jiu Jitsu teaches you that losing is inevitable, but how you handle it can make all the difference. In life, just like in Jiu Jitsu, setbacks happen. What matters is how you bounce back from them. After a tough loss, it’s important to reflect on what went wrong and how you can improve, rather than focusing on disappointment. This process builds resilience, confidence, and a sense of humility that goes far beyond the mat.
For example, one of our members, Jon Chan, faced numerous challenges on his journey to becoming a black belt, including moments where things didn’t go his way. But through perseverance, reflection, and dedication to improving his craft, he not only became one of our top competitors but a role model for what it means to embrace competition with a growth mindset.
Applying This Mindset Outside the Gym
One of the most important lessons Jiu Jitsu can teach is how to apply this healthy competitiveness to life outside of the gym. Whether it’s in your career, relationships, or personal projects, Jiu Jitsu instills a mindset that values progress over perfection, humility over arrogance, and resilience over short-term success. You learn to compete against yourself first and foremost, always striving to be the best version of you, rather than worrying about how you compare to others.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in fostering an environment where students, from our Peewees to our adults, learn how to handle competition in a way that builds them up rather than tears them down. It’s about developing mental toughness, discipline, and an appreciation for the journey, both on and off the mat.
In Jiu Jitsu, as in life, competition is inevitable. But the way you approach it can shape your experience. At our gym, we encourage students to view competition as an opportunity to learn and grow, rather than just a way to measure success. With the right mindset, Jiu Jitsu can teach you how to be competitive in a healthy, sustainable way—one that helps you thrive both on the mat and in life.
This past weekend, we had our Ruckus in the Hills in-house BJJ tournament, and I couldn’t be more proud of how everything played out. There’s something special about an in-house tournament — a blend of excitement, nerves, and community spirit that’s unlike anything else. But what really stood out to me was the incredible energy and determination displayed by the kids who competed.
Pushing Boundaries and Embracing Challenges
One of the most rewarding parts of the day was seeing the kids push themselves beyond their limits. Competing in jiu-jitsu isn’t just about physical skill; it’s also about mental toughness, handling nerves, and learning from both victories and losses. For many of the kids, this tournament was their first real experience with competition, and they absolutely rose to the occasion. Every match brought out something new in them — they adapted, learned, and improved with every round. By the end of the day, you could visibly see the progress in their confidence and skill level.
The Growth with Each Match
Watching the kids evolve throughout the day was one of the highlights for me. In each round, they applied new techniques they had just learned, adjusted their strategies, and sharpened their instincts. It was clear that every match helped them get better, not just technically, but in terms of resilience and composure. As a coach and referee, it’s inspiring to see how competition can accelerate their growth. In a way, each match was a mini-learning experience, pushing the kids to think on their feet and deal with new challenges.
Fun on the Mats and as a Referee
Having refereed many in house tournaments before, I’ve always enjoyed being in that role, and this event was no different. As a referee, I’m in the best position to see the dynamic exchanges, decision-making, and heart these kids put into each match. It’s always fun to be part of the action and ensure that the competition remains fair and positive, especially when you see kids showing discipline, respect, and good sportsmanship — all key values in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Looking Ahead: Back to the Gi
With the summer behind us, I’m excited for the kids to transition back to Gi training after spending the last few months focused on No-Gi. While No-Gi is fast-paced and full of scrambles, there’s something about the return to Gi that feels like coming home to the roots of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The grips, the control, the chess-like exchanges that come with the gi will add new layers to their game, and I can’t wait to see how the skills they’ve developed over the summer will translate.
This tournament reminded me of how much these young athletes are growing, not just in terms of skill, but as individuals. Seeing them step out of their comfort zones, take on challenges, and come out stronger is what makes coaching so fulfilling. I’m incredibly proud of all the competitors, and I’m already looking forward to seeing what they accomplish in the next phase of their journey.
Here’s to more growth, more matches, and more memories on the mats!
This past weekend, our El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu/ American Jiu Jitsu Syndicate competitors stepped up at the IBJJF Sacramento Open and made us proud with their impressive performances. Here’s a breakdown of the results:
Saturday – Adults/Masters:
Connor had an incredible run, taking home gold in his weight division. He didn’t stop there, earning a hard-fought silver in the absolute division, where he battled against competitors of all weight classes.
Leo also had a standout performance, securing a silver in his weight class.
Sunday – Kids:
Adam represented our kids’ program well, bringing home a bronze medal in the kids’ tournament. His effort, skill, and determination are a reflection of his dedication to the mats.
We are proud of everyone who competed, whether you medaled or not. These events push us to grow and improve, and the effort each competitor put into preparation and performance is what truly matters.
As we celebrate these successes, we look forward to continuing the grind, learning from these experiences, and preparing for the next challenge. Great job, team!
At the IBJJF World Masters and Jiu Jitsu Con, our team showcased remarkable skill and determination, with several standout performances that highlighted our community’s dedication to growth.
Jon made a triumphant return, capturing gold in the brown belt Master 5 division after four hard-fought victories. His journey to the top was especially significant given last year’s disappointment, making this win a testament to his perseverance and progress.
In the black belt Master 7 division, Allan dominated his first two matches, showcasing his technical prowess. Though he fell short in the final, his silver medal reflects his strong performance and the high level of competition.
Ken battled through four challenging matches in the blue belt Master 1 division, reaching the finals with a string of impressive victories. The final match was incredibly close, and despite losing by a referee’s decision, Ken’s silver medal was well-earned.
At Jiu Jitsu Con, our young competitor Colin delivered an outstanding performance, winning three dominant matches to take gold. His achievement is a sign of his bright future in the sport.
We also had strong showings from Kiet, Jerel, Aaron, Ryan, Brad, Danny, Raina, and Leo, who all gave their best efforts on the mat. Although they did not medal this time, their performances reflected significant improvements and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
But beyond the medals and accolades, what truly stands out is the sense of camaraderie and commitment to improvement that permeates our gym. Whether competing on the world stage or training at home, everyone is focused on making continuous improvements to each other’s game—be it in technique, competition strategy, or overall performance. This collective dedication ensures that, as a team, we are always growing and pushing each other to new heights.
El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu / AJJ Syndicate cheering on Allan after his victory
The IBJJF San Jose Open Gi tournament is a battlefield where skill, strategy, and sheer determination collide. Among the countless warriors who step onto the mats, two standouts emerged, showcasing the essence of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in its purest form: Jerel, a seasoned black belt, and Ryan, a rising purple belt from El Dorado Hills jiujitsu.
Jerel, a black belt with years of experience woven into every technique, approached the tournament with the calm demeanor of a seasoned veteran. For him, every match was a canvas on which to paint his mastery of the art. With precise movements and an unwavering focus, Jerel, despite being two weight classes up to gain compete, fought with precision and tenacity. His journey was a testament to the countless hours spent honing his craft on the mats.
Ryan, on the other hand, brought the hunger and tenacity of a purple belt eager to prove himself on the competitive stage. With fire in his eyes and determination in his heart, Ryan approached each match as an opportunity to push his limits and test his skills. Despite the adversity, Ryan refused to back down, using his agility and technical prowess to outmaneuver his adversaries and secure victory after victory.
As the tournament progressed, both Jerel and Ryan faced formidable opponents who pushed them to their limits. Every match was a test of their resolve, a battle of wills where victory hung in the balance with every sweep, submission attempt, and escape. In the end, their perseverance and dedication paid off, as Jerel and Ryan found themselves standing on the podium.
But beyond the medals and accolades, what truly defined Jerel and Ryan’s journey was the camaraderie and spirit of sportsmanship that permeated every match. In victory and defeat, they showed respect for their opponents, recognizing the shared love for the art that brought them together on the mats.
The IBJJF San Jose Open Gi tournament was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the human spirit and the boundless potential of those who dare to pursue their passion with unwavering dedication. Jerel and Ryan’s journey serves as a reminder that in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the truest victory lies not in defeating others, but in overcoming oneself, one match at a time.
Are you ready to experience the rush of a thrilling in-house tournament? Look no further than the El Dorado Hills Ruckus in the Hills event happening on May 19th! Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, this tournament promises an unforgettable day filled with fun, competition, and camaraderie.
What is Ruckus in the Hills? Ruckus in the Hills is a semi annual event hosted by the vibrant community of El Dorado Hills. It’s a celebration of athleticism, teamwork, and sportsmanship, bringing together players of all ages and skill levels for a day of intense competition. From friendly matches to heated showdowns, this tournament has something for everyone.
Why Attend?
Unforgettable Experience: Get ready to immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of competitive sports. Whether you’re participating or cheering from the sidelines, every moment is sure to be memorable.
Community Bonding: Connect with fellow enthusiasts and build lasting friendships within the local sports community. Ruckus in the Hills is more than just a tournament—it’s a gathering of like-minded individuals united by their passion for the game.
Skill Enhancement: Sharpen your skills and learn from some of the best players in the region. Competing in a tournament setting is a fantastic way to challenge yourself and take your game to the next level.
Family-Friendly Fun: Bring the whole family for a day of entertainment and excitement. With food vendors, activities for kids, and thrilling matches to watch, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Support Local Sports: By participating in Ruckus in the Hills, you’re not just playing a game—you’re supporting the growth of grassroots sports in your community. Your involvement helps sustain and strengthen the local sports scene for future generations.
Join the Ruckus: Don’t miss your chance to be part of the action at the El Dorado Hills Ruckus in the Hills In-House Tournament on May 19th! Whether you’re a player, a spectator, or a supporter, your presence helps make this event a success. Mark your calendars, gather your team, and get ready for an epic day of sportsmanship, excitement, and fun. See you on the mat!
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Gold Medalists:
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