Yesterday, the mats of El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu were filled with excitement and pride as we gathered to celebrate a monumental achievement: Scott’s promotion to black belt. This milestone is the culmination of years of dedication, discipline, and perseverance, and it was an honor for all of us to witness.
Scott’s journey in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a testament to his character and work ethic. From the first time he stepped on the mat while he was at CU Boulder, he embraced the challenges of the art with an open mind and an unrelenting spirit. Over the years, he has grown not just as a practitioner but also as a leader and mentor to everyone in our community.
His promotion ceremony was an emotional and inspiring moment, as he shared the story of his father who passed when he was 12 sparked his interest in martial arts. We have seen Scott’s contributions both on the mat through his willingness to help others, his ability to overcome setbacks, and his unwavering commitment to improving himself and those around him.
As a black belt, Scott now joins an elite group that represents the pinnacle of achievement in Jiu Jitsu. It’s not just about technical skill but also about embodying the values of humility, perseverance, and respect.
We are incredibly proud of Scott and grateful for the example he sets for everyone in our gym. His journey reminds us that the path to mastery is long and demanding, but it’s also deeply rewarding.
Congratulations, Scott, on this well-deserved accomplishment! We look forward to seeing how you continue to grow and inspire others as a black belt.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our youth program is about more than just learning techniques and building physical fitness—it’s about creating confident, resilient, and well-rounded individuals. Recently, we’ve been reflecting on the work of Dr. Dan Gould, director of the Michigan State University Center for Youth Sports. Dr. Gould’s research offers invaluable insights into how coaches, parents, and programs like ours can positively influence young athletes.
The Role of Youth Sports in Life Skills Development
Dr. Gould emphasizes that youth sports should be a vehicle for teaching critical life skills like discipline, teamwork, leadership, and emotional resilience. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we see these skills come alive on the mats every day. Whether a young student is learning to persevere after a tough round of sparring or practicing respect through bowing to a training partner, these lessons transcend the sport itself.
As Dr. Gould highlights, sports don’t automatically teach life skills—they must be intentionally woven into training. This is why we hold monthly Mat Chats in our youth program, focusing on values like integrity, humility, safety, and bravery. By combining Jiu Jitsu with meaningful life discussions, we help students make connections between their practice and their daily lives.
Creating a Positive Youth Sports Environment
Dr. Gould’s research stresses the importance of a positive sports environment—one that balances competitiveness with encouragement and learning. For us, this means fostering a culture where mistakes are seen as opportunities to grow. A child may not always hit the perfect technique, but through patient coaching and reinforcement, they’ll learn to embrace challenges rather than fear failure.
We also encourage parents to focus on effort and progress over winning or losing. As Dr. Gould points out, parents and coaches who highlight a child’s personal improvement rather than external results are more likely to keep kids motivated, confident, and happy.
Avoiding Burnout and Keeping Sports Fun
One of Dr. Gould’s most important messages is that sports should be fun, especially for younger athletes. Overemphasizing competition can lead to burnout and cause kids to drop out of sports altogether. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we ensure that fun remains a priority—whether it’s through games to teach new techniques, friendly in-house competitions like Ruckus in the Hills, or celebrating milestones in class.
By keeping Jiu Jitsu engaging and rewarding, we help kids develop a lifelong love for movement, fitness, and personal growth.
The Long-Term Impact of Jiu Jitsu for Youth
Dr. Gould’s findings remind us that the true value of youth sports lies in the long-term impact on a child’s character and mindset. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re proud to contribute to this journey. Every young student who steps on the mat learns to be a little braver, a little more focused, and a little more resilient—skills they’ll carry with them long after they leave the gym.
We’re inspired by Dr. Gould’s vision of youth sports as a transformative experience, and we remain committed to providing the best possible environment for young athletes in our community.
If you’re a parent looking for a program where your child can build physical skills and grow as a person, come visit us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Let’s help your child reach their full potential—on and off the mat.
El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is proud to celebrate the outstanding efforts of our team at the IBJJF No-Gi Worlds! Competing against some of the best grapplers in the world, our athletes showcased incredible skill, heart, and determination.
Kiet stood out with a stellar performance in the Master 4 Black Belt division, earning a well-deserved bronze medal. His technical expertise and relentless spirit carried him through a challenging bracket to claim a spot on the podium.
Sonja also delivered an inspiring performance, taking bronze in the Master 4 Blue Belt division. Her determination and resilience were evident as she battled through with a podium finish.
Ken and Eliot also represented our team with great effort and determination, competing fiercely in their respective divisions. While they didn’t place this time, their performances demonstrated their dedication to the art and commitment to improvement. Every competition is a chance to learn and grow, and we’re proud of their hard work and perseverance.
These achievements and efforts highlight the strength of our El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu community. Kiet and Sonja’s podium finishes and Ken and Eliot’s grit remind us that the journey in Jiu Jitsu is one of constant growth and camaraderie.
Congratulations to our entire No-Gi Worlds team! Let’s keep training, improving, and supporting each other as we prepare for the next challenge.
If you’ve ever picked up a controller to play your favorite video game, you’re familiar with the thrill of unlocking new levels, mastering challenging skills, and discovering hidden treasures. What if we told you that learning Jiu Jitsu at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu is a lot like playing a video game? Whether you’re a casual gamer or a martial arts enthusiast, this perspective might just change the way you approach training on the mats.
The Beginner Level: Starting Your Journey
Every video game begins with a tutorial level. As a white belt, this is your time to learn the basics—how to grip, move, and defend yourself. Like navigating a new game, you might feel a little clumsy at first, but with consistent practice, those awkward movements become smooth and efficient.
At our gym, we structure our curriculum much like a well-designed game. Beginners work through foundational techniques, like learning guard passes or escapes, similar to earning basic power-ups. Each class is an opportunity to level up and improve your “stats” in strength, flexibility, and confidence.
Earning Experience Points (XP)
Every roll (live sparring session) is an XP boost. Some days, you might “win” by landing a sweep or submission. Other days, you “lose” but gain critical insights into what you need to work on. In Jiu Jitsu, there’s no such thing as failure—only opportunities to learn and grow.
Just like in a game, the more you show up and put in the work, the faster you accumulate XP. The best part? Training with different partners adds variety to your experience, much like encountering new characters or challenges in a game.
Unlocking Advanced Levels and Moves
As you progress through the belts, you’ll notice how your understanding of Jiu Jitsu deepens. Techniques that once felt complicated now seem intuitive, like unlocking a hidden combo or special ability in a game. For example, as a blue belt, you might start chaining moves together—setting up an armbar from a triangle or transitioning from a sweep to a guard pass.
The written standards curriculum at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu helps guide your progress, ensuring that you’re not just randomly mashing buttons but developing a structured, comprehensive skillset.
Boss Battles and Tournaments
Every video game has boss battles, and in Jiu Jitsu, tournaments serve as your real-life equivalent. Facing opponents outside your gym challenges you to apply your skills under pressure. Win or lose, these experiences are invaluable for leveling up.
Even if competing isn’t your thing, every class presents its own “mini-bosses”—those teammates who push you to your limits and force you to problem-solve on the fly.
The Never-Ending Game
Unlike a video game, Jiu Jitsu doesn’t have a final level. Even black belts continue to learn and refine their craft. This endless journey is what makes Jiu Jitsu so rewarding. There’s always a new “move set” to explore, a different “quest” to embark on, and a deeper understanding of the art to unlock.
Join the Game
If you’re ready to start your Jiu Jitsu adventure, we invite you to join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu. Our coaches and teammates are here to help you level up, one step at a time. Whether you’re a white belt just starting out or a seasoned practitioner looking for new challenges, there’s always room for you to press play and continue your journey on the mats.
Let’s train, level up, and have fun along the way!
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our kids’ classes are designed to do more than just teach techniques—they’re about building confidence, discipline, and coordination in a way that’s both fun and effective. By blending structured drills with engaging games, we ensure our young students stay excited about learning while developing essential Jiu Jitsu skills.
The Structure of Our Kids’ Classes
Our youth program is divided into three age groups to ensure every student receives age-appropriate instruction:
• Peewee (Ages 4-7)
• Kids (Ages 7-10)
• Juniors (Ages 11-17)
Each class begins with a warm-up to get the kids moving and focused, followed by skill-based drills, technique instruction, and sparring for the older age groups. However, what makes our program stand out is the incorporation of games and creative activities to reinforce key concepts.
Skill-Building Through Games
Games are an integral part of our teaching philosophy because they provide a hands-on way for kids to learn while having fun. Here are a few examples:
• Situational Drills: This game helps kids develop situational awareness and improve their positional escapes. One student defends while others take turns trying to achieve a dominant position, building both resilience and strategic thinking.
• Sumo Wrestling: By challenging kids to push or pull their partner out of a designated area, this game enhances balance, grip strength, and core stability—key attributes for success in Jiu Jitsu.
• Jiu Jitsu Freeze Tag: Combining the classic game of tag with Jiu Jitsu techniques, kids practice takedowns and control while staying engaged and energized.
The Power of Drills
While games provide a fun learning environment, structured drills lay the foundation for mastery. We use repetitive, focused exercises to help kids sharpen their techniques, build muscle memory, and improve their overall athleticism.
For example:
• Guard Retention Drills: Students practice maintaining guard against a partner’s passing attempts, developing their defense and timing.
• Takedown Entries: Age-appropriate takedown drills help build confidence and teach the importance of technique over strength.
More Than Just Skills on the Mat
In addition to improving their Jiu Jitsu, our classes instill life skills like teamwork, respect, and perseverance. Whether they’re working with a partner during drills or showing good sportsmanship in a game, our young students grow both on and off the mat.
Come Join the Fun
If you’re looking for an activity that engages your child’s body and mind, our kids’ Jiu Jitsu program might be the perfect fit. Stop by El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and watch a class or let your child schedule a trial class. They’ll have fun, learn valuable skills, and gain the confidence to tackle challenges both on and off the mat!
We are thrilled to announce a significant milestone in the El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu community! On Tuesday, December 17th, at 9:30 AM, Scott will be promoted to black belt, marking a profound achievement in his Jiu Jitsu journey. This event will also include his first-ever seminar as a black belt, where he will share techniques, insights, and the lessons he’s learned over years of dedication.
A Journey of Dedication and Growth
Reaching the rank of black belt is no small feat. It represents years of commitment, perseverance, and continuous learning. Scott’s journey embodies the principles of Jiu Jitsu—resilience, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence. As a teacher, training partner, and competitor, Scott has consistently contributed to the growth and strength of our team.
What to Expect at the Seminar
Scott’s seminar will focus on his signature techniques and training philosophy. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner, this is an incredible opportunity to learn from someone who has invested countless hours into perfecting his craft.
Details of the event:
• Date: Tuesday, December 17th
Time: 9:30 AM
Location: El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu
The seminar is open to all members, and we encourage everyone to join in celebrating this milestone with Scott.
Join Us for This Special Day
This is not just a celebration of Scott’s achievement but a reminder of what is possible through persistence and hard work. Let’s come together as a team to honor Scott and take away valuable lessons to improve our own practice.
Mark your calendars, and we look forward to seeing you on December 17th!
Ken Ravizza, a pioneer in applied sport psychology, transformed how athletes and coaches think about performance, mental resilience, and leadership. His philosophy offers invaluable lessons for coaches in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, where mental toughness and focus are as critical as physical skills.
1. Stay in the Moment
One of Ravizza’s core teachings is the importance of staying present. In his book Heads-Up Baseball, Ravizza emphasized focusing on the current play, not past mistakes or future outcomes. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, this mindset can be applied during sparring or competition. Encouraging students to focus on each roll or exchange, rather than dwelling on errors, fosters adaptability and keeps their minds clear.
2. Trust the Process
Ravizza advocated for athletes to trust their training and preparation, even under pressure. As a coach, this means reinforcing confidence in students’ techniques and game plans. By consistently building skills and emphasizing discipline in practice, students develop trust in their abilities, especially in high-stress moments like tournaments.
3. Embrace Mental Skills Training
Ravizza’s approach involved teaching athletes to manage stress and maintain composure. Techniques such as controlled breathing, visualization, and creating pre-competition routines can help students perform at their best. Incorporating these tools into warm-ups or post-class discussions can benefit Jiu Jitsu practitioners of all levels.
4. Control the Controllables
In Ravizza’s philosophy, athletes are taught to focus only on what they can control—such as their attitude, effort, and reactions. For Jiu Jitsu, this could mean staying calm in difficult positions and focusing on technique rather than external factors like the referee or opponent’s behavior.
5. Develop Leadership and Resilience
Ravizza contributed to the Positive Coaching Alliance’s concept of the Triple-Impact Competitor®, which emphasizes personal mastery, leadership, and honoring the game. Coaches can encourage these values by modeling respect, fostering teamwork, and holding students accountable for their behavior both on and off the mats.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe in cultivating not just skilled grapplers, but well-rounded individuals. Integrating Ravizza’s principles into coaching can inspire students to achieve personal growth, resilience, and excellence—qualities that extend beyond the mat.
For more on Ravizza’s approach to coaching and performance, explore resources like his book Heads-Up Baseball or the Positive Coaching Alliance.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that learning is best achieved through experience. Whether you’re drilling an armbar, learning a new guard pass, or rolling during open mat, every moment on the mat is an opportunity to grow. David Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle provides an excellent framework for understanding how we learn from these experiences and apply them to improve over time.
Kolb’s model consists of four stages that form a continuous loop: Concrete Experience, Reflective Observation, Abstract Conceptualization, and Active Experimentation. Let’s explore how these stages connect to Jiu Jitsu training.
1. Concrete Experience
The journey begins with hands-on experience. In Jiu Jitsu, this could be your first attempt at a technique, like a scissor sweep, or your first live roll with a training partner. These experiences provide the raw material for learning.
• On the mat: You try a sweep during sparring but end up losing positioning and getting your guard passed. While it might feel frustrating, this moment is crucial because it sets the stage for growth.
2. Reflective Observation
After the experience, it’s time to reflect. What went well? What didn’t? This stage is all about analyzing what happened to uncover patterns, strengths, and areas for improvement.
• On the mat: You think back to your failed sweep attempt. Was your opponent’s weight too centered? Did you forget to block their arm? By observing and questioning, you begin to identify the reasons behind the outcome.
3. Abstract Conceptualization
This is where you form theories or strategies based on your reflections. You might discuss the technique with your coach, watch instructional videos, or visualize how to make adjustments for the next attempt.
• On the mat: You realize that controlling your opponent’s posture and momentum is critical for a successful sweep. You commit to focusing on these elements during your next practice.
4. Active Experimentation
Now it’s time to test your new understanding. Armed with your insights, you apply the updated strategy during your next training session. This stage completes the learning cycle and begins it anew, as each experiment becomes another concrete experience.
• On the mat: You try the sweep again, this time controlling your opponent’s posture. It works! Even if it doesn’t, you’ve gathered more data to refine your approach further.
The Cycle in Action
Kolb’s cycle emphasizes that learning is not a one-time event but a continuous process. In Jiu Jitsu, this loop repeats every time you step on the mat. Each mistake, success, and adjustment propels you forward.
Why Kolb’s Cycle Matters in Jiu Jitsu
• Individualized Learning: Everyone progresses through the cycle at their own pace. Whether you’re a white belt or a seasoned black belt, the process remains the same: experience, reflect, conceptualize, experiment.
• Building Resilience: The cycle normalizes setbacks as part of the journey. Mistakes are not failures—they’re opportunities to learn.
• Encouraging Curiosity: By reflecting and experimenting, students become active participants in their learning, fostering a deeper understanding of techniques and concepts.
Putting It Into Practice
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we encourage our students to embrace this cycle:
• Experience: Attend classes regularly and immerse yourself in drills and sparring.
• Reflect: Take time after training to think about what you learned. Keep a journal or discuss your experiences with teammates.
• Conceptualize: Watch videos, ask questions, and think critically about how to improve.
• Experiment: Come back to the mat ready to test your ideas, knowing that every session is another step forward.
Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle reminds us that mastery in Jiu Jitsu is a journey shaped by experience and reflection. Whether you’re a beginner learning your first guard pass or a seasoned competitor refining your game, the process never ends.
Ready to start your own learning cycle? Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu and discover how learning through experience can transform your Jiu Jitsu.
Winter break is the perfect time to refocus, refine, and recharge on the mats. That’s why we’re excited to announce a special 2-day workshop at El Dorado Hills Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, designed specifically for young practitioners ages 7-15. Over two focused sessions, we’ll dive into key areas of the game: guard passing systems and back attacks.
On Monday, December 23, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, we’ll explore guard passing systems. This isn’t just about individual techniques but understanding how to link passes together into a system that works against various guards. Students will learn how to break through their opponent’s defenses with efficiency and control, gaining the tools to maintain pressure and dominate from the top position.
On Thursday, December 26, also from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, we’ll shift focus to back attacks. This session will cover not only how to secure the back position but also how to maintain it and execute high-percentage finishes. From controlling your opponent with precision to setting up devastating submissions, students will leave with a deeper understanding of how to make the most of one of Jiu-Jitsu’s most dominant positions.
Each session is $20, and you can register directly with Coach Danny to reserve your spot.
These workshops are designed to help young athletes take their Jiu-Jitsu to the next level by focusing on systems and strategies that are essential for success. Whether your child is just starting out or looking to elevate their game, this is a great opportunity to build confidence, refine technique, and learn in a supportive environment.
If you’d like to sign up or have any questions, please reach out to Danny directly. Let’s make this winter break a time for growth on the mats. See you there!
In today’s fast-paced world, finding a way to unwind and manage stress is more important than ever. For many adults, traditional methods like yoga or jogging may not fully scratch the itch for both physical activity and mental clarity. Enter Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), a martial art that not only strengthens the body but also provides a therapeutic outlet for the mind. At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’ve seen firsthand how this unique discipline can transform lives.
A Full-Body Workout That Clears the Mind
Jiu Jitsu is often called “human chess” because of the strategy and problem-solving it involves. As you train, your mind becomes laser-focused on the techniques and counters, leaving little room to dwell on work stress or personal worries. The added bonus? A full-body workout that improves strength, flexibility, and endurance.
Building Resilience and Confidence
One of the most powerful aspects of Jiu Jitsu is its ability to teach resilience. Whether it’s learning how to escape from a tough position or mastering a difficult technique, BJJ fosters a mindset of perseverance. This resilience doesn’t just stay on the mat—it carries over into your daily life, helping you tackle challenges with a newfound confidence.
A Community of Like-Minded Individuals
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, our adult classes are filled with people of all ages and backgrounds who come together for a shared goal: self-improvement. The camaraderie and support you’ll find here create a sense of belonging that’s hard to find in other fitness environments. Whether you’re rolling with a fellow beginner or sparring with a seasoned practitioner, every interaction helps build meaningful connections.
Accessible for All Fitness Levels
You don’t need to be in peak physical condition to start Jiu Jitsu. Many of our members are in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, and they find the sport not only accessible but life-changing. Our instructors are skilled at tailoring techniques to suit your abilities, ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment.
Take the First Step
If you’ve been searching for a way to combine fitness, stress relief, and personal growth, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu might be exactly what you need. Join us at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu for a trial class and experience the benefits for yourself.
Your journey to a healthier, more balanced life starts here.
Ready to begin? Our adult classes meet at convenient times, including early morning and evening sessions. Contact us today to schedule your first class!
