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.
This weekend, December 12-14, El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu will have four talented competitors representing our team at the prestigious IBJJF No-Gi World Championships in Las Vegas!
Ken blue belt adult division
Eliot black belt adult division
Kiet black belt master division
Sonja: blue belt master division
The IBJJF No-Gi Worlds is one of the biggest stages in grappling, and we are proud to see our athletes competing against the best in the world. Their hard work, dedication, and commitment to improvement have brought them to this moment, and we can’t wait to cheer them on.
If you’re in Las Vegas, come out to support the team! Matches will be live-streamed on FloGrappling for those watching from home. Let’s go, EDH Jiu Jitsu!
Stay tuned for updates on their performances, and send them your encouragement as they prepare to leave it all on the mats.
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!
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we believe that discipline is not just a personality trait—it’s a skill that anyone can develop and refine. Whether you’re stepping onto the mat for the first time or training for a world-class competition, discipline is the key to unlocking your potential in Jiu Jitsu and beyond.
But what exactly is discipline, and how can we cultivate it in our training and daily lives?
What Is Discipline?
Discipline is the ability to stay committed to your goals, even when the journey gets tough. It’s choosing consistent effort over fleeting motivation and prioritizing long-term growth over immediate comfort.
In Jiu Jitsu, discipline means showing up to class even when you’re tired, drilling techniques repetitively to perfect them, and keeping your emotions in check during a match. Off the mat, it can mean maintaining a healthy lifestyle, setting clear goals, and consistently working toward them.
How to Practice Discipline
The good news is that discipline isn’t something you either have or don’t have—it’s a skill you can build with intentional practice. Here are a few ways to develop discipline both on and off the mat:
1. Start Small
Discipline begins with small, manageable habits. For example, commit to attending one additional class per week or set aside 10 minutes a day to review techniques. As you succeed in these smaller goals, you’ll build the confidence and momentum to tackle bigger challenges.
2. Embrace Consistency
Consistency is the foundation of discipline. It’s better to train regularly, even if it’s just a few times a week, than to overtrain sporadically. Consistency helps you establish routines that make discipline feel natural rather than forced.
3. Focus on the Process
Discipline is about falling in love with the journey, not just the outcome. Celebrate the small victories, like mastering a new guard pass or maintaining focus during a challenging roll.
4. Practice Self-Control
Discipline requires controlling impulses. On the mat, this might mean resisting the urge to muscle through a technique and instead focusing on precision. Off the mat, it could mean choosing meal prep over fast food or study time over Netflix.
5. Learn from Setbacks
Setbacks are inevitable, but disciplined individuals use them as opportunities to grow. Missed a class? Reflect on why and recommit. Lost a match? Analyze what went wrong and come back stronger.
Why Discipline Matters in Jiu Jitsu
Discipline isn’t just about improving your skills in Jiu Jitsu; it’s about becoming a better version of yourself. Here’s why it matters:
• Resilience: Discipline helps you push through tough times and bounce back from failure.
• Focus: It sharpens your ability to stay present and intentional in your training.
• Growth: Discipline ensures steady, incremental improvement over time.
• Leadership: As you develop discipline, you inspire those around you to do the same.
A Lifelong Skill
The beauty of discipline is that it transcends Jiu Jitsu. The habits you build on the mat—showing up, working hard, and staying consistent—will serve you in every area of life.
So the next time you tie your belt, remember: every class, every drill, and every roll is an opportunity to practice discipline. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about showing up and doing the work.
At El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu, we’re here to help you develop the discipline to succeed—not just in Jiu Jitsu, but in everything you set out to achieve.
Ready to Start?
Join us on the mat and begin your journey toward greater discipline and self-mastery. Your future self will thank you.
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 in more than just teaching martial arts—we are building a legacy. When we think about the future, we imagine a thriving community where the principles of Jiu Jitsu extend far beyond the mats, shaping lives, families, and the world for generations to come. Our vision is strong, looking 100 years ahead, to a time when the seeds we plant today have grown into something truly extraordinary.
A Legacy of Excellence
One hundred years from now, we envision a school that continues to uphold the highest standards of martial arts education. Our structured curriculum, which already sets a high bar, will evolve to include new techniques, philosophies, and methods, while staying rooted in the timeless principles of Jiu Jitsu: efficiency, mutual benefit, and adaptability.
Generations of students will pass through our doors, each learning not just the art of Jiu Jitsu but the discipline, respect, and resilience that come with it. We dream of black belts who will look back and say, “This is where it all started,” as they carry our legacy forward to new heights.
A Stronger Community
A century from now, our impact on the local community will be immeasurable. El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu will remain a cornerstone for personal growth, leadership, and connection. Families will look to us as a place where values are cultivated and where people of all ages come together to pursue a shared goal of self-improvement.
Through programs like our youth ‘mat chats’ on life skills, adult mentorship, and initiatives like the Guardian Scholarship, we will continue to shape confident, compassionate leaders who make their mark on the world.
Global Reach, Local Heart
In 100 years, we see our school’s influence stretching beyond El Dorado Hills, with alumni teaching and training around the globe. Yet, our foundation will remain steadfastly local—a place where beginners and world champions alike feel at home.
Imagine a network of Jiu Jitsu practitioners, all tracing their lineage back to our small town, each spreading the values we hold dear: integrity, humility, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Innovation with Purpose
The art of Jiu Jitsu is constantly evolving, and so will we. One hundred years from now, we envision embracing new technologies and teaching methods to ensure that the art remains accessible to all. From virtual reality training tools to advances in biomechanics, we will use innovation to preserve the art’s purity while enhancing the learning experience. Who knows what things could look like if we continue to incorporate technology and scientific principles into our program!
A Vision Rooted in Tradition
As we look to the next century, we are inspired by the words of Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo, who emphasized “Jita Kyoei”—mutual welfare and benefit. This philosophy guides everything we do. Whether it’s on the mat, in our community, or in our personal lives, we strive to build a culture where everyone grows stronger together.
Our 100-year vision is bold, but it is also grounded in the daily work we do right now: coaching our students, fostering a positive environment, and building a culture of continuous improvement. Each day, we lay a brick in the foundation of a legacy that will stand the test of time.
Join the Journey
We invite you to be a part of this vision. Whether you’re a brand-new student or a seasoned practitioner, your journey at El Dorado Hills Jiu Jitsu contributes to something much larger than any one of us. Together, we are building not just a school but a legacy—one that will inspire and empower generations to come.
Let’s train for today. Let’s dream for tomorrow. And let’s build for the next 100 years.
Learn More
Curious about how you can be part of our vision? Contact us or drop by for a trial class. Together, we can build a legacy that lasts.
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!
