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We did it again!

Thank you, Brentwood, for voting us the Best Martial Arts Academy in town for the 14th year.

Your trust and support in our services drive us to excel and strive for perfection daily.

Congratulations to our amazing staff: Crosley, Ryan, Fernando, Okeoma, Sariah, Antonio, Caeleb, Stefan, Javier, Lindsey and Sam. Thank you for your hard work!

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We love meeting new prospective students and showing them the Gracie way to introduce Jiu-Jitsu into their lives.

As a third generation Self-Defense institution, Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is dedicated to preserving the original methods of teaching beginners, developed by Grandmasters Carlos and Hélio Gracie nearly 100 years ago, in 1925, when the first-ever Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy opened its doors in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Loski has since last week tried a class out and enrolled in the Co-Ed Beginners Program.

Thank you for sharing your initial experience, and welcome aboard Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Mr. Eugenio.

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Secret Santa Gift Exchange (drawing) week! 🎅🏼🎁

What will you GIVE this holiday season?

“Christmas Gift Suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect.“

- Oren Arnold

Watch the video.

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Congratulations, Dean Macumber! December 2023’s Student of the Month!

13-year-old Dean started his Jiu-Jitsu journey early in 2020 in our 8-11-year-olds’ Program. He followed the footsteps of his older sister, Audrey, who was a force to be reckoned with on the mat for several years.

At first, Dean was very reserved while in class and still discovering his body’s capabilities. He has always been a kind, well-mannered student who aims to please and doesn’t want to disappoint.

In June of 2023, Dean earned his Yellow Belt after having put in consistent work, and the TRANSFORMATION was underway!

From that day forward, he has been more consistent, focused, diligent worker, confident, skillful, and aggressive in matches, and he is developing friendships on the mat.

Dean is a classic story of one of the superpowers of Jiu-Jitsu, CONFIDENCE! If one doesn’t give up, stays consistent, trusts the system, embraces the coaching, and puts in the time, the MAGIC HAPPENS!

Great job, Dean! We are proud of you!

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Congrats to our female warriors Pia and Liz on earning their third and first stripes, respectively, today!

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Congratulations to the newest members of the Kids Black Belt Club, Reed Thomas (10), Viviana Diaz (, and Jack Baker (7)!

These young Jiu-Jitsu practitioners will bring competitiveness, focused intensity, calmness, fun, leadership, and fearlessness to the room.

Reed has been training for almost three years. He's a hard worker who trains consistently! He's very polite, kind, focused, and always gives his best effort. Reed's always willing to put in extra work before class to improve.

At the end of Summer, Reed entered our Internal Tournament and displayed exceptional calm under pressure. We are excited to witness his growth in his new program!

Viviana is a natural leader who trains with a fearless tenacity. She does a great job helping the younger students and those with less experience. She completed 30 additional hours of training during Summer camp and displayed her fearlessness when in the ring for MMA sparring day.

She recently tested herself at the Jiu-Jitsu World League Tournament and fought with courage and heart for her first time on the...

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Are you a Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu student or a relative of a student? Don’t miss out on exclusive group offers and giveaways! Follow the link to join now: http://bit.ly/2xBXJ3h

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oin us in wishing Professor Fernando Valdes a Happy Birthday today!

Fernando has been training since 2004, and this December celebrates the 7th anniversary of his Black Belt promotion. He is Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu's 4th Black Belt.

Professor Fernando teaches the Adult Intermediate classes on Monday and Friday nights and can typically be seen training on Tuesday and Thursday at the Adult Advanced classes.

Fernando's passion for teaching has taken him beyond the Jiu-Jitsu mat, as since earning his black belt, he took on a career as an elementary school teacher for the Brentwood Unified School District.

Lifelong wishes of good health, peace, and happiness, Professor! Enjoy your day!

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Give the gift of Confidence!

Now through January 2, 2024, purchase this for yourself, a friend, or a relative, and they can try out either one of our adult programs (Jiu-Jitsu or Muay Thai) for one month (two classes a week).

*First-time students only. Purchase now through Jan 2, 2024 and begin taking classes as early as Jan 3, 2024. It must be redeemed before Jan 31, 2024, or it will expire. Call or email for an appointment after purchase. Non-refundable.

Limited packages available! Click here to purchase now.

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Benefits of Private Lessons:

  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Accelerated Learning
  • Targeted Skill Development
  • Personalized Training Plan
  • Sparring Time w/ Instructor
  • Attention to Detail
  • Instant Execution Feedback
  • And Much More!

Purchase up to ten lessons per instructor and utilize them throughout 2024. Click here to purchase now!

*Current students only. Lessons must be booked and attended before 12/01/2024. Non-refundable.

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Seize this rare, time-limited opportunity to enjoy three months of the premiere Jiu-Jitsu program in town, including the uniform and registration, all at an incredible $350 discount (just $599)!

Offer valid for first-time students only. Only 10 available. First class must be attended in December 2023. Three consecutive months from the first class attended. Eight classes per month. Offer expires on 11/27/23 at 11:59 pm.

Click here to purchase now.

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Moms and Dads training with their kids, siblings, neighbors, couples, and co-workers, bonding and investing in their health and well-being.

This is the Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle, and nothing is more rewarding for us than witnessing the strengthening of familiar laces and the development of new relationships through Jiu-Jitsu.

We are thankful for the blessing bestowed upon us to do what we love. We are thankful for our insatiable desire to keep evolving and learning new ways to reach and empower as many individuals as we can.

Thankful to our students, current, past and future ones, for being part of our journey in this lifetime. Happy Thanksgiving!

Watch the video.

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To our wonderful staff, thank you for always going above and beyond to serve our students and making Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu what it is today.

To our students and families, thank you for being part of our tight-knit community.

To our friends and followers, thank you for the ever-growing support!

Happy Thanksgiving!

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We take great pride in introducing new individuals to Jiu-Jitsu training the right away.

In over 18 years of meeting local community members and introducing thousands of them to the training, we have developed an efficient system to learn what each individual is after, what they value, and what they prioritize before enrollment.

And sometimes, that may mean that what they seek is not what we believe in and provide.

While our job is also to educate prospective students and help them pinpoint exactly what they may need, an entitled, impolite, bad-mannered, "the customer-is-always-right" attitude will certainly not help them become students of our Academy, and as a personal opinion, likely won't help them develop the relationships to go as far in life as they could either.

Respect is the ultimate currency, and no amount of money in the world will make us overcome our beliefs, the respect we have for ourselves, our time, and the role our self-improvement institution has in society.

Thank you, Ismael, for the kind words, and we are happy to have you as...

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The biggest SALES of the year!!!

  • New Memberships
  • Returning Members Specials
  • Upgrades
  • Uniforms, Training Equipment & Sparring gear
  • Apparel (up to 50% off select items!)
  • Private lessons and more!

Mark your calendar! This event is taking place from 1:00 to 5:00 PM only!!

Come on in and enjoy some snacks and refreshments while checking off your shopping list!

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Help us collect new toys and gifts for kids up to 18 years of age to benefit the families in need around our community.

All donations to the Brentwood Regional Community Chest (BRCC) stay within the local area and go straight to more than 500 homes in Brentwood, Knightsen, Byron, and Discovery Bay.

Please stop by the barrel we placed next to the ring and drop off whatever you can. If your children train, involve them by adding the Community Chest to your Christmas shopping list this year and ask them to drop off the gifts themselves. By doing so, they'll feel pride and the positive impact of giving back to their community.

The barrel is set to be picked up on Monday, December 11th

Thank you!

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At Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, we provide our youth students a fertile ground for development and growth to:

  • ✅ Respect themselves
  • ✅ Respect hierarchy and authority
  • ✅ Believe in themselves unconditionally
  • ✅ Trust the self-defense skills they are learning
  • ✅ Trust their ability to execute those skills if needed
  • ✅ Be accountable for their actions
  • ✅ Not to victimize themselves
  • ✅ Solve problems
  • ✅ Not freeze up and panic when facing a difficult situation
  • ✅ Be mentally strong when they may not be physically strong
  • ✅ Grow up without fearing other children
  • ✅ Be polite and well-mannered
  • ✅ Listen when it's time to listen
  • ✅ Stay humble and graceful in victory and defeat
  • ✅ Manage disappointment
  • ✅ Be part of a team
  • ✅ Be positive, cheerful, and kind
  • ✅ Morally prepared to face life’s adversities

What’s the monthly monetary value behind raising children to be equipped with the above?

Priceless.

Martial arts training is an...

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Forty-seven athletes and the coaches' irritated throats the morning after; we are proud of every single student for stepping up to the big stage to not only test their technical skills, but to learn who they are and how they react in the face of pressure and adversity.

On Saturday, 33 Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu students experienced a Jiu-Jitsu competition for the first time. While not every individual has what it takes to succeed in combat sports competition, taking chances to find out who we are is what counts in the bigger scheme of things. And Jiu-Jitsu tells us who we are every day.

Stay attentive to the hidden lessons each time you step on the mat, and embrace the self-discovery process. A new threshold unlocks each time a competitor completes a training camp and competes. The ability to push yourself when exhausted, execute techniques without thought, deal with pressure, and handle your coaches' critiques while trying to balance life's obstacles. PERSEVERANCE.

Your opponent will show you your weaknesses; the homework is to identify the flaws and turn...

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Over the past 22 years I’ve been teaching, it’s become common to hear prospective students say, “I need to get in shape before I sign up.”

While the perception of Jiu-Jitsu by the average Joe is one of aggressiveness, blood, injuries, and violence, due to the UFC and because of its connection w/ the Gracie Family, for most by way of @realroyce’s performance in the first four editions of the event, the fact that you must be in shape to join has become a wide misconception.

First-timers indeed “don’t need to get in shape before getting in shape.” By that expression, I mean that Jiu-Jitsu training will get you in shape, and the most functional type of shape is FIGHTING SHAPE.

HOWEVER, and this is for anyone at any level in their JJ journey, supplemental training for cardio and strength can add not only to your Jiu-Jitsu performance but to your overall health.

After joining @crossfit over six years ago, I’ve been able to find a workout method that supplements my already healthy lifestyle with something new, consistent, and, in my opinion, complete for what...

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Congratulations, Lucy Watson! November 2023's Student of the Month!

11-year-old Lucy is cool, calm, and focused! She has been training for just under two years after patiently waiting for six months on the waitlist.

Consistent from the start, she drills purposefully and always encourages her teammates. Her skill is accelerating rapidly, earning her the rank of yellow belt at our Summer Belt Ceremony in June. That same day, she was invited to the Kids Black Belt Club, where she continues to thrive!

Lucy has participated in our Summer Camp for the last two years. In both years, she did multiple MMA sparring rounds in the ring with calm alertness and executed her techniques with precision.

She stayed calm in the fray, utilizing some of the SUPER POWERS of Jiu-Jitsu: performing under pressure and solving problems under stress as they presented themselves in each match.

Lucy has been a great role model for her younger sister Penelope, who joined her for this year's Summer Camp. Penelope had been waiting for a spot to join the year-round training since...

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This past Saturday, over 80 participants from around the community, varying from 14 to 69 years old, stepped on our mat to empower themselves.

From co-workers (especially nurses, many of whom leave their hospital shifts late), Moms and daughters, grandparents, siblings, and friends, we were pleased with the turnout and the participants' dedication.

It’s no news the world isn’t in harmony. While we can’t control others’ potential tyrannical behavior, we can control how well-prepared we can be should we ever need to reinforce and maintain our mental, physical, and emotional integrity.

In addition to discussing the psychology behind sexual assault by strangers and non-strangers broken down into phases and preventive strategies for each stage, the free two-hour class covered awareness and boundary-setting principles and escaping techniques standing and on the ground.

The class was a lot of fun, and we hope to see everyone back on the mat next time!😃💪🏼

Watch the video.

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Highest Women's Seminar Attendance since we began offering this class to the community in 2010, with participants varying from 14 to 69 years old.

From co-workers (nurses who leave their shifts late), moms and daughters, grandmothers, siblings, and friends, we are pleased with the turnout and dedication of the participants.

This shows women are becoming more and more aware of the fact that setting boundaries but also being able to enforce them physically, if necessary, is an essential skill to have.

The world isn't in harmony, and while we can't control other's potential tyrannical behavior, we can control how prepared we are should we ever need to maintain our mental, physical, and emotional integrity.

A huge shoutout to our booking and teaching staff for running a seamless event. Thank you all who attended!😃

View the photo album.

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Join us in wishing our fantastic instructor, Okeoma, a Happy Birthday today!

One of the most passionate Jiu-Jitsu practitioners we know, when Okeoma is not training or assisting with teaching a group class, you can find him helping the students and teammates between classes.

A true selfless warrior! Enjoy your day, sir, and thank you for all you do for our students!

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Remembering over 15 years of Halloween festivities with our youth students! So many fun memories! 🎃🤩

Happy Halloween!👻

Watch the video.

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This coming weekend’s seminar is sold out! Thank you to all 80 females registrants. We look forward to training with you all this Saturday, starting at 11:00 AM sharp!

See you on the mat!

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Congratulations to the newest Kids Black Belt Club members, William Guevara (7) and Tyler Ng (11).

These students are developing the traits of a champion: They are disciplined, consistent, highly coachable, and make everyone around them better. Natural leaders! William and Tyler were both tournament standouts at this year’s In-House Tournament in August.

William steps on the mat with his fingers taped and always looks like he just left the barbershop! He puts in repetitions before class and is always the first to raise his hand when the Instructor asks a question. He’s exceptional, and his mind works fast!

Tyler spent ten months on the waitlist patiently watching his younger brother Nolan train from the sidelines. Once a spot opened up in our 8-11-year-old program, he took full advantage and rarely missed a class. Tyler is highly focused and kind and is often found drilling repetitions before class.

These two warriors will bring much energy and value to their new program! Keep it up, boys! We are proud of your hard work and look forward to witnessing your...

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Congrats to our Muay Thai coach Javier Bong for winning his fight at last weekend’s IKF point Muay Thai event in Alameda, Ca.

Bong noticed his opponent’s strength was throwing knees from the clinch, so he used teeps and angles to keep his opponent within striking range of kicks to keep scoring.

In the second round, Bong picked up the pace with aggressive forward movement, adding a variety of hand combinations, knees, and kicks to earn the W.

25-year-old Bosah has been training since the Summer of 2021 and decided to join the competition at the last minute. He remained aggressive and composed throughout the entire fight, utilizing all of his weapons.

Bosah landed multiple clean straight crosses with body and leg kicks. He also swept his opponent a few times at the beginning of each round. In the clinch, Bosah dominated with a barrage of knee strikes to the body to seal his victory.

Well done, sirs!

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The fact that the average male will always be stronger than the average female will never change.

But the belief that women cannot physically enforce their boundaries and come out on top against a stronger attacker, anywhere, anytime, has been outdated since the Gracie Family developed and shared Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with the world in the early ‘90s.

Be like Danielle and Krista. Break the pattern of old-school thinking and invest 2-hours of your time to learn REAL and MODERN self-defense and situational awareness skills.

Stay current with what’s available in regards to your safety and peace of mind. In two Saturdays, learn not only a handful of escaping techniques from standing and on the ground but also proactive preventive measures to avoid becoming a target in the first place.

Over 60 women have registered for our annual Self-Defense Seminar on November 4th. Don’t wait, it will sell out!

Follow the link to learn more :...

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The passionate and talented Jiu-Jitsu student and instructor Okeoma testing for his black belt

  • First class in 2011
  • Blue Belt promotion in 2013
  • Best Attendance Award in 2015 (185)
  • Purple Belt promotion in 2016
  • Best Attendance Award in 2017 (189)
  • Brown Belt promotion in 2019
  • Best Attendance Award in 2021 (226)
  • Black Belt promotion in ….?
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A family that trains together…

  • Sets the example for their children
  • Strengthens trust and respect
  • Builds quality family time
  • Develops yet another way to bond
  • Learn more about one another
  • Motivate and encourage each-other

Parents Jessica and Yan started their martial arts journey in the Summer of 2018 in the Muay Thai program. One year later they both decided to start their Jiu-Jitsu journey and made it their primary self-defense class.

Jessica and Yan stayed tethered to the training during the pandemic when many quit, religiously attending the classes we hosted live via Zoom.

Last summer, Jessica and Yan enrolled then 9-year-old Aria, and 15-year-old Amelia, who have always been wonderful students. Both were very dedicated from day one, always showing up with a smile on their faces and ready to work.

Such willingness to challenge herself has earned Aria the Student of the Month award for the month of June this year! Just a little over a year ago when beginning her journey, she had made very clear...

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Denver Seminar as part of the annual @roycegracienetworkofficial gathering. Thanks to all brothers and sisters of the sword for attending, and sharing your energy. Always an exciting time reuniting with old friends and making new ones. Watch the video.

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Join us in wishing our incredible administrative coordinator, Lindsey, a Happy Birthday today!

Often, the success of a martial arts academy is measured by the consistent quality of instruction, its instructors’ skill level, and the welcoming and supportive atmosphere on the mat.

But no success would be possible without the diligent hard work behind the scenes done by the front desk staff.

Thank you for your excellent work ethic and dedication in being not just the bridge between the local community’s interest in our programs and the instruction on the mat but also for being the positive, reliable, attentive, and kind staff member to our current students and their families.

Enjoy your day!

P.S.: Lindsey is now a blue belt and will squeeze your neck for an extra second if your dues are late

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"Activities and sports like Hockey, Baseball, Soccer, Gymnastics, Girl/Boy Scouts, etc... are all great hobbies and pass-time activities, and I let my kids choose whatever activities they want.

I categorize swimming lessons differently; swimming is a life skill and non-negotiable in my house.

Sooner or later, my children will be exposed to water (be it a pool, lake, river, or ocean), and not having basic swimming skills and confidence around the water will hold them back and could be potentially fatal. They don’t need to be Olympic swimmers, but they need enough basic skills to tread water and survive ideally and are competent enough not to be nervous or fearful around water.

Now, apply that same filter to martial arts. It’s a great sport with all the benefits of traditional sports, but it also teaches self-defense, which is an essential life skill. In your child’s lifetime, they will almost certainly face the threat of physical violence (often unavoidably and through no fault of their own).

When you are attacked, just like in the water, it doesn’t matter...

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“Giving your son a skill is better than giving him one thousand pieces of gold.”

On her last day as a 13-year-old, I’m proud beyond words of my sidekick for embracing the lifestyle, the networking with others on the same path as her, and the “invisible” growth she may not yet able to see but will most definitely feel as an adult.

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Great times on the mat last night in Denver! Thank you to all who attended my seminar as part of the Annual Royce Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Network Gathering.

It’s always an inspiring experience to be surrounded by so many passionate practitioners from around the country and abroad.

Click here to view the photo album.

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CONSISTENT TRAINING is, without a doubt, the most important aspect of athletic success and forward progress. Even a poorly designed or random training program will produce results if followed consistently and training occurs regularly.

A four-day-per-week plan followed with energy and precision is better than a 5-day-per-week plan that leaves you tired, and unmotivated and adversely affects other areas of your life.

Consistency doesn't just apply to the frequency of workouts, but how consistently you adhere to the workout format. It's no surprise that those who follow their plan precisely are the ones who see the greatest improvements in performance.

SCHEDULE time for your workouts as you would any other appointment. Don't try to fit them in haphazardly; put workouts on your calendar or have a set time each day. A good Instructor will help you make the most efficient use of your training time and can customize a plan to fit your needs and lifestyle.

Each workout must have a purpose, consistently moving you forward.

Train HARD, train SMART, and...

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2023 Annual Defensive Tactics and Weapons Retention Seminar. Thank you all LE officers who attended the class this past Saturday.

Watch the video.

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Two Black Belt Club warriors who met the age/skill parameters being welcomed by their new teammates of the 12-14-Year-Olds’ Program 🤝🏼

Welcome to the more advanced Teens Program, Kevin Loadholt, and Jayden Parks!💪🏼👏🏼

Watch the video.

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A few promotions last night in the 6-8 Year Olds’ Program :

  • Faith Phan (, training since Jan 2022
  • Mason Scroggins (7), training since June 2021
  • Grace Rivera (7), training since Feb 2023

Well done, ladies and sir!

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Next Saturday, 09.30.23 from 1100-1300 hours‼️

2023 Annual G.R.A.C.I. E.™ Defensive Tactics & Weapons Retention Seminar.

This seminar is exclusive for active duty law enforcement and military personnel. It’s the perfect opportunity for officers who have never trained in Jiu-Jitsu before to get a feel for what the Jiu-Jitsu approach can do for you on the field.

DETAILS

The seminar is 100% hands-on and will last approximately two hours. Wear comfortable workout clothing (bring your duty belt).

MATERIAL

  • ✅ Closing the distance and clinching on a suspect who’s trying to hit you
  • ✅ Takedowns
  • ✅ Escapes & defensive strategies from the bottom position
  • ✅ The “21-feet rule”
  • ✅ Transitioning from submission holds to cuffing

👉🏼 To register, call (925) 634-6958 or click here to register online now.

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Jeremyah, Danny, Noah, and Kivians, teammates of the 12-14-Year-Olds’ Program, are tearing it up in middle-school Wrestling! They are about to get on the mat at Edna Hill for their last competition this season for Bristow MS. — at Edna Hill Middle School.

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Congratulations to the newest Kids Black Belt Club members!

  • Caroline Scroggins
  • Noah Bedgood
  • Caleb Bedgood
  • Mackenzie Ventura

These students have put in the work! They have all taken the training seriously since enrolling, maintained consistent attendance, and made Jiu-Jitsu a priority while participating in other competitive sports.

Caroline (9) has had extreme focus and has been a remarkable student since joining in June 2021. She carries herself with poise and strives for perfection. Caroline always has well-thought-out technical questions. She is always thinking! She does a great job of balancing her Jiu-Jitsu training with her competitive dance schedule.

Noah (11) has made tremendous progress since day one! He’s learned about respect, worked hard on improving his technical skills, and has developed an extremely coachable mindset. He’s become a leader in the Beginners 8-11 year old Program. You can always find Noah getting in more repetitions before class. He's highly competitive, doesn't miss a class, and often, he and...

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Join Professor Crosley Gracie on Friday, October 13th, as he teaches another one of his world-class seminars as part of the 2023 Annual Royce Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Network Gathering.

Royce returns to Denver to host his annual gathering 30 years after stepping into the Octagon on November 12th, 1993, for the first-ever UFC.

The 4-day event will be held at the Embassy Suites Downtown Convention Center at 1420 Stout St, Denver, CO 80202.

Other greats who will be sharing their combat sports knowledge are:

- Kenny Johnson (Thurs, 10/12 at 6:00 PM)

HS/College All-American Wrestler/MMA Coach

- Royler Gracie (Fri, 10/13 at 10:00 AM)

ADCC/IBJJ Hall of Famer

- Leticia Ribeiro (Sat, 10/14 at 10:00 AM)

Multiple-time Jiu-Jitsu World Champion/ IBJJF Hall of Famer

- Fabricio Morango (Sun, 10/15 at 10:00 AM)

Jiu-Jitsu World Champion/Former UFC Fighter

To register, please get in touch with Chandra Wheeldon at chandra4ksports@gmail.com.

Embassy Suites group rate:...

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Thank you, students and families, for joining us for our annual Potluck Party at the park! It was a blast!

For us at Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, the only other equating feeling that comes from knowing our students are feeling more confident and empowered with the training every day is witnessing all the relationships that are being built amongst them in the process.

Click here to view the photo album.

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13-year-olds Kivian Gracie, Noah Binsol, and Danny Castorena demonstrate 26 escaping techniques from some of the most common street attacks, such as punches, kicks, bear hugs, and chokes, during our In-House Tournament.🥋

Well done, guys!👏🏼

Watch the video.

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Congratulations, Thane Bray! September 2023's Student of the Month!

6-year-old Thane has had great focus since his first trial class over one year and a half ago. Thane steps on the mat with the attitude, "I'm here to work!" He shakes the Instructors' hands and looks directly into their eyes with a serious and prideful glare, displaying quiet confidence.

Thane immediately puts in extra work before class. Sometimes, he is working on break falls, drilling with a partner, or continuously jumping jacks until it's time for class to start. ALL BUSINESS!

Thane's focus is infectious; his focused mindset spreads throughout the class. He is respectful to his teammates, is always up for challenges, and perseveres when things become difficult. He is one of the first students with their hand raised to answer a question or to demonstrate a technique.

At our Belt Ceremony in June, Thane was awarded the rank of Grey/White belt, and more recently, he received the Gold medal at this year's Internal Tournament. Hard work and focus get results!

Great job, Thane! We...

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12-14-Year-Olds Program’s student Danny Castorena bringing in his “unorthodox” Jiu-Jitsu style to middle school Wrestling🥋

Watch the video.

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One of the most beautiful aspects that young students enjoy when they join our Jiu-Jitsu programs is the camaraderie created among the team.

Camaraderie instills mutual respect, trust, and a sense of well-being in a team. It brings a sense of closeness that forms a strong bond between teammates. Ultimately, it is this friendship and loyalty that they have for one another that helps them work together towards a common goal.

As instructors, one of our primary goals is to cultivate camaraderie within our students. The mutual trust and friendship that they develop while training will give them positive memories that will last a lifetime, allowing them to build strong relationships in the future.

Our students spend hundreds of hours practicing on their teammates per year. They work and play hard together, get tired, and sweaty, and share emotions of failure and success daily. Many times making friends through Jiu-Jitsu leads to lifelong relationships with teammates from childhood, high school, and college. Some of my closest friendships to date developed through the...

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20 years ago today, on August 31st, 2003, I stepped into the ring to be part of @pancrase_official’s 10th Anniversary Event held at the historic Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Arena in Tokyo, Japan to realize a personal dream, enter an MMA ring to fight and continue my family’s legacy.

Facing the current welterweight champion (non-title fight) and the #2 ranked middleweight who had a record of 29-15-9 at the time on my debut was, in every sense of the word, a challenge.

But I knew when starting preparation for the fight three months before that he was not hungrier than I was, that he would not train harder than I was planning to, and that he would not sacrifice more than I was willing to during training camp.

The thrill of accomplishing my second life goal (the first being earning my black belt) was unexplainable.

Watch the video.

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JIU-JITSU FOR MOMS

Moms are awesome for many reasons. They are selfless and put everyone in the household ahead of themselves. They give and give without expecting much in return.

But sometimes, this selflessness and dedication to others can create stress and anxiety that sometimes can’t be cured with just regular exercise.

Feeling awkward and out of place in a male-predominant activity is absolutely normal. But like everything else in life, you’ll get over these mental obstacles over time.

Jiu-Jitsu training is the ideal activity for any Mom, not just because it’s the most realistic and effective self-defense system in the world today, but because it is purpose-giving, stress-relieving, physically empowering, and helps improve physical, mental, and emotional health. It’s also challenging and fun, allowing Moms to have their own “me time.”

Moms are passing things down to their kids all the time. Why not give them the gift of a confident role model with a healthy dose of self-respect? Why not show them through your actions how a leader...

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Another memorable Saturday at Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is on the books! 😃

Congratulations to all the competitors who challenged themselves at our Annual In-house Tournament yesterday. It was a great day of Jiu-Jitsu display in Brentwood, and we are proud of our warriors for challenging themselves in competition!💪🏼

Special congrats to the award winners:

  • 🏆Arthgin De La Cruz (Fastest submission)
  • 🏆Farrah Pique (Tournament standout)
  • 🏆Makena Mathews (Match of the day)
  • 🏆Cole Webb (Match of the day)

Shout out to our sponsors:

  • Campos Development
  • Mata Leao Real State Investments
  • Grant & Lewis Lease Administration

Watch the video.

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There's a new Gracie in the Middle school Wrestling circuit! I am proud of my warrior princess for stepping up to learn and compete in the world’s oldest sport. 🤼‍♀️

With only seven practices before the competition, she showed she’ll be a force to be reckoned with! I’m excited about all the benefits this incredible combat sport will bring her, including improved mental toughness, durability, athleticism, and grit.

Her imminent improvement in Jiu-Jitsu will be nice to see as well.🥋

If your child has the chance to wrestle, don’t think twice. Enroll them. It’ll be a great supplement to their Jiu-Jitsu training and character. 💪🏼

- Professor Crosley Gracie

Watch the video.

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A pleasant memory from 1999, months after my relocation to the U.S. from Brazil to pursue my dreams.

From L to R, Uncle Carlson, Troy, now the head instructor of @carlsongracieoc, Franco de Camargo, one of the pioneers of Jiu-Jitsu in Orange County-Ca, and myself as a purple...

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Teens’ Jiu-Jitsu program students Noah, Jeremyah, Kivian, and Danny getting ready for their first Wrestling tournament at Bristow this afternoon. Go get them, guys!

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13-year-olds Kivian Gracie, Danny Castorena, and Noah Binsol practice a street Self-Defense routine they’ll demonstrate this Saturday during our Kids' In-house Tournament. Great job, lady and gentlemen!😃👏🏼

Watch the video.

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Coach Javier "Bong" Ramos and his two sweet yet fierce teenage daughters, Aubrey (L), and Addy (R).

Bong was born and raised in the Philippines until his parents moved the family to Guam at 9, then to California at 10 years of age.

As a highly active child, he played sports every day. He remembers being inspired by the Street Fighter video game character Ryu, a worldwide hit in the early 90s.

Bong's Martial Arts journey started at 13 when he began training under the Grand Master Lay Wing Sung at Buk Sing Choy Lay Fut Kung Fu Academy in Fremont, CA.

While a student, he learned multiple forms, weapons (long staff and spear), and the demonstrations necessary to attain his Green Sash in 3 years.

Bong played High School Basketball and Football and wrestled for Mission San Jose in Fremont, CA.

With much dedication and hard work, he was a finalist at every wrestling tournament.

While in college for Engineering at San Jose State University, Bong started weightlifting to supplement his athleticism.

After becoming a Dad at 22, he did...

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Concluding another Adult No-Gi Summer Camp. Two months, 16 classes, and 20 hours of pure Jiu-Jitsu for Street Self-Defense.

This year in special we witnessed couples, Dads and sons, and a 68-year-old grandma join her 14-year-old granddaughter join the course and strengthen their relationship bonds by learning together.

We are now back to our regular Gi curriculum for Beginners on Tuesday and Thursday from 7:15-8:15 PM.

Check out the photo album here.

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It’s PARTY TIME!

Join us for a day of great company, good food, swimming, and lots of fun at the Veterans Park in Brentwood on Saturday, September 9th, for our annual Potluck Party!

This event is open to students, families, and friends of Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. It's rain or shine, and we'll be there from noon to 5:00 PM on Structure Group A.

Make sure to bring your bathing suit!

  • Rain or Shine
  • All Ages Welcome
  • BBQ Area
  • Music, Food & Fun
  • Sand Volleyball Court
  • Children’s Play Structure
  • Balloon/Face Paint Artists

If you plan to attend, RSVP and sign up for POTLUCK at the front desk.

The Veterans Park is located at 3841 Balfour Rd. in Brentwood, Ca.

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Monday, August 14th, 2023. THE “GOOD OLD DAYS” ARE NOW!🥋

Enjoy the process, enjoy the camaraderie of your teammates, enjoy your instructors, enjoy the beatings, the victories, and the daily lessons.

Enjoy whatever stage in your Jiu-Jitsu journey you are in.

From beginners to advanced, you are exactly where you should be; the good old days are now! 🤩

Watch the video.

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Dear students, friends, and followers -

Thanks to you, we have won the Best of Brentwood Gold Medal award for the past several years, and now we need your help to do it again! Please take a few minutes to follow the link below to award the best businesses in Brentwood, including Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, under the "BEST MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY” category.

Obrigado!

Begin voting here

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Purple belt Reed Wilson supplementing his already strong Jiu-Jitsu game with some strength and conditioning training, w/ @_gabby_smith Smith at @greygroupfitness_cftakedown

He now joins another 6-8 students who joined the nearby Crossfit affiliate and are embracing the LIFESTYLE outside the mats.

Being fit is a mindset first and foremost. Live a fit physical and mental lifestyle 24/7, not just Jiu-Jitsu twice weekly. Don’t just come to class; train hard and give your all, and ruin it all by not staying on the path when outside the mat. Use your Jiu-Jitsu training to motivate you to stay on course after the class ends, and you walk out the door.

Train Jiu-Jitsu, do other forms of cardio, weight...

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Become a beacon of inspiration.

Elizabeth, Aaliana, and Pia after class this morning.

Congratulations, Aaliana, on completing the 12-week beginners’ program and earning your first stripe!

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11-year-old Colt has been a dedicated student from the start. He has maintained an enthusiastic attitude in the five years he has been a student at the Academy. COMMITMENT!

Colt is coachable, a great teammate, kind, and has been a positive role model for his younger sister Mattingly, who is currently thriving in our 4-6-year-old class. He paved the way!

Colt is always eager to do the right thing and takes pride in putting in the work. He has a way of quietly encouraging his teammates and getting the best out of them during drilling sessions.

Colt has progressed through the Youth Programs. Starting in the 6-8-year-ols, moving on to the 8-11-year-olds, and most recently moving into the 12-14-year-olds' program. Colt also balances his Jiu-Jitsu training with his competitive baseball schedule.

We have witnessed Colt's focus, athletic ability, and confidence continue to evolve year after year. He puts in the work, and he is seeing the results!

Great job, Colt! Keep up the outstanding work!

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“Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.”

It is with Dr. Seuss's quote in mind that we say goodbye tonight to our long-time student (13 years) Vandit as he moves away from the Bay Area.

We are grateful for your company on the mats all these years. May the Jiu-Jitsu force be with you!

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It’s on, Saturday, August 26th!

We are back building another generation of competitors with our Annual Kids In-House Tournament!

We are looking forward to seeing all beginning Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu warriors “getting their feet wet” in this small-scale Jiu-Jitsu competition.

Invite your relatives, and bring your cameras to catch all of the action! It will be a great day of fun, with a Self-Defense demo, sport Jiu-Jitsu rules recap, lots of matches, awards, and more!

Follow the link for registration here.

*Exclusive to CGJJA students

Thank you to our sponsors:

- Campos Development

- Mata Leão Real Estate Investments

- Grant & Lewis Lease Administration

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Tomorrow! The Adult No-Gi Self-Defense Camp continues with Lesson 14/16.

We’ll see you on the mat!

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Are you in your 30s or 40s and think you are too old to start training? We bet that purple belts Roy Rios (70) and Joe Vernazza (59), seen here chatting after yesterday’s morning class would disagree!

If you train, how old were you when you started your Jiu-Jitsu journey?

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Sixty empowered children with a plan of action against verbal AND physical bullying.

In over three hours, we:

  • Worked out
  • Listened to stories and gave advice
  • Discussed the psychology behind bullying
  • Shared ways to improve situational awareness
  • Gave tips to help minimize the chances of getting picked on
  • Talked about carrying ourselves w/ honor and confidence
  • Went over easy-to-follow steps to address verbal bullying
  • Reiterated to NEVER ignore a situation that makes them feel uncomfortable
  • Watched videos of the techniques in action in real-life street fights
  • Drilled controlling techniques standing and on the ground
  • Did full-resistance partner drills

Well done, ladies and gents!

Click here to view photo album.

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12-year-old white belts Ethan, Arthgin and 13-year-old yellow belt Noah earned their stripes upon completing the 30 hours of Summer Camp training last month.

The dedication and hard work of these three fellas since enrolling in the program is admirable.

Not only did all three of them hold an attendance record above the average for the Youth Program, they learned to embrace the culture of showing up, and giving their all during conditioning, technique-drilling, and sparring.

They are the epitome of success, as shy teens who had no skills and have transformed themselves into respectful, hard-working, confident, and skillful Jiu-Jitsu practitioners less than 12 months later.

Well done, sirs! We are proud of you!

Keep it up!

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Congrats, Ella (Yellow/Black belt), Josh (Orange/White belt), and Ethan, Arthgin, and Noah (stripes), on your promotions following the completion of all 30 hours of training in the Summer Camp! Well done, everyone!

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Join us in wishing a Happy 15th Birthday to the former US Open Champion, Student of the Year award winner, and the latest addition to the teaching staff, Caeleb Stanovich!

Caeleb is a Jiu-Jitsu lover who, since starting training at the age of 7, displayed consistent work ethic, politeness, and a desire to excel.

After completing the 100-hour Instructor Certification Program in the Spring and officially becoming a Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Assistant Instructor, he’s now sharing his passion for Jiu-Jitsu with the younger generation and sharpening his own skills in the Adult Program.

Enjoy your day, champ!

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Click here to view photo album.

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What a month for 8-year-old Nolan Ng. First, July’s Student of the Month award, and now an invitation to the Kids Black Belt Club.

Nolan will bring a diligent work ethic to the program and is sure to catapult his skills in our elite Youth Jiu-Jitsu Program!

Well done, buddy!

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Join us in wishing a Happy Birthday to our founder, program director, and head instructor, Professor Crosley Gracie! Thank you for being a true inspiration and visionary leader for our team. Have a delightful day! Cheers!

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Congratulations, Nolan Ng! July 2023’s Student of the Month!

Eight-year-old Noland is a student who has discipline! He enters the mat and greets the Instructors with a shy smile and calm demeanor, all with the watchful eye of Mom, Dad, older brother, and little sister, who is a star at the Academy.

Shortly thereafter, his classmates crowd around him. When we give Nolan a task, we can count on him putting in the work to master the skill. He is a great teammate who doesn’t get distracted when others are off track.

Nolan is always quietly doing the right thing. His focused mindset is contagious! Nolan is respectful, kind and makes everyone around him better. This is why everyone lines up to be Nolan’s partner. They know he is on the path of discipline.

After ten months of training and consistently attending all classes, Nolan’s skills and confidence have grown tremendously. We are excited to watch him continue to excel.

Great job, buddy! We are proud of your hard work and commitment!

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Click here to view the photo album.

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Concluding our 15th annual Youth Summer Camp yesterday with a crowd’s favorite, MMA Sparring Day!💥🥊

After 5 weeks and 30 hours of pure street readiness training, our warriors have improved their fitness levels, confidence, and self-defense skills, learned/reviewed the plan of action for bullying, should they ever become victims, AND had a blast (like us)!😃

Giving every child that comes to us the weapons to help them fight against the potential tyranny of other children and the world in a disciplined, supportive, and safe environment is our #1 mission.💪🏼

Thank you, all participants!

Watch the video.

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19-year-old Aaliana Miranda first started her Jiu-Jitsu journey with us nearly 15 years ago when she trained for about a year. Yes, she was little! 👧🏼

She returned to Jiu-Jitsu three months ago and has been attending the Adult No-Gi Summer Camp religiously. 💪🏼

Here, she’s seen working on establishing side control as part of Class #9 of our 16-class camp with long-time purple belt student @kbake307, helping her with the technique.

Kyle is helping her with adjusting her body weight distribution, shoulder pressure on the jaw, and knowing when to brace and post when losing her balance as a result of her opponent’s efforts to flip her over.

We are always thrilled to meet new students and excited to guide them through the Jiu-Jitsu journey, but there’s something special about seeing former members return to the training. No matter how old they were then and are now, or how long their hiatus was.🤩

Watch the video.

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“By working hard, you get to play hard, guilty-free.” - Jim Rohn

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Join us in wishing a Happy 21st Birthday today to our beloved student and assistant instructor, Sariah Hoffman!!

Thank you for being so dedicated to our mission of empowering our youth students to be their best version every day! Our littles couldn’t have a better role model to look up to!

Enjoy your day!

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The post-Summer Belt Ceremony 12-14-Year-Olds

Standing L to R:

  • Professor Ryan Murphy
  • Farrah Pique
  • Sophia Spreng
  • Cody West
  • Colt Johnston
  • Gabriel Avecilla
  • Vinny Ramirez
  • Clay Andrews
  • Maria Clara Rebordao
  • Allie Phan
  • Cole Webb
  • Arthgin De La Cruz
  • Greyson Cervantes
  • Ethan Larosa
  • Michael Ventura
  • Jay Bryant
  • Professor Crosley Gracie

Knees L to R:

  • Caeleb Stanovich
  • Barron Saeparn
  • Ella Ausmus
  • Genevieve Brown
  • Dominic Yeom
  • Leila Milhous
  • Lincoln Milhous
  • Daniel Ludwig
  • RJ Harrell
  • Sofia Anderson
  • Christine Nguyen
  • Kamila Aldaco
  • Dean Macumber
  • Makena Mathews
  • Juliette Rush
  • Olivier Marti
  • Danny Castorena

Not pictured:

  • Zachary Matthews
  • Kivian Gracie
  • Charlotte Busman
  • Madeline Wilson
  • Noah Binsol
  • Mateo Schwab
  • Jeremyah Villanueva
  • Hailey...
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Our Youth Summer Camp continues on! Class 5 of 9 is in the books.

We are proud of the 50 warriors putting in 3.5 hours of work each time, and getting results!

Check out the photo album here!

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Class #3 - Taking the back & Rear naked choke

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Being a Dad is taking on a divine and eternal responsibility.

It’s to plant roots.

It’s to be the warrior who takes on the mission to love, discipline, protect, and watch over the formation of the nation's future.

A Happy Father’s Day to all Dads out there who do what’s right, not what’s easy.

It’s our responsibility to lead by example and raise strong humans for this less-than-harmonious and fair world.

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Feeling too old for Jiu-Jitsu?

Six years ago yesterday (06/14/17), then 8-year-old Calleigh was enrolled in the Youth Jiu-Jitsu Program by her Grandma Candy.

Since then, Candy has become one of the most frequently seen faces in the school as Calleigh participates in EVERY extra-curricular activity we host, such as our annual Summer Camps and individual lessons, and rarely misses a group class.

Such commitment has earned Calleigh an unprecedented Highest Attendance Award for four years in a row.

Now at 14, and having been part of three different Youth Programs (Beginners 8-11 yo, Kids Black Belt Club, and the 12-14 yo), Calleigh was recently moved up to the Adult Program.

This past Tuesday, Grandma enrolled Calleigh in our 8-week No-Gi Camp to get extra training and learn the No-Gi curriculum.

While praising Calleigh to Candy that day for her dedication, Candy joked around that she should join Calleigh in the 16-class course. Or was she joking?

Regardless, that was all I needed to hear!

After a little push, Candy joined the class...

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39-year-old Chelsea Burgo’s Jiu-Jitsu journey began when she was 6 years old at her Dad’s Brad Burgo Dojo, Bay Isle Judo & Jiu-Jitsu Club, where she trained until she was 13.

Fast forward to her 20s in 2010, and working as a front desk receptionist at the UFC gym in Concord, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program was launched. She found a friend to join the program with, and she never looked back.

In 2017, Chelsea started her own Jiu-Jitsu program in Alameda, where she lives and has since submerged herself in learning the intricacies of running her own martial arts academy, @gracie_jiujitsu_alameda, and morally preparing students of all ages to serve society.

Chelsea was a fierce competitor during the first half of her journey and has acquired extensive experience in that aspect of Jiu-Jitsu. Among her main achievements in competition are:

  • 2011 American Nationals:🥇
  • 2011 US Open:🥇
  • 2013 Abu Dhabi Trials:🥇
  • 2013 All-Stars:🥇
  • 2013 American Open:🥇
  • 2013 US Open:🥈
  • 2014 US Open:🥈
  • 2014 US Open...
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Congratulations, Aria Qu! June 2023's Student of the Month!

10-year-old Aria started her Jiu-Jitsu journey at last year's Summer Camp with encouragement and guidance from her parents, who are both Jiu-Jitsu blue belts.

The combat sports world was completely new and foreign to the then-timid and soft-spoken Aria. She was very nervous, but faced her fears, was optimistic, and was willing to give the camp her best (with one condition, she didn't want ANYTHING to do with live training)!

Throughout the camp, we noticed Aria's confidence building, and she started believing in her technique. Her coordination, athletic ability, and conditioning improved after every session.

After completing the 30 hours of Summer Camp and earning her first stripe, Aria joined our year around Jiu-Jitsu program. She was more confident and comfortable on the mat since completing the Summer Camp as long as she didn't have to spar!

Three months later, it all changed! The much more confident Aria decided to challenge herself and test her skills by jumping in for sparring!...

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Thank you to all families who have expressed interest in our Summer Camp. We are sold out!

Make sure to hurry up & register for the Adult No-Gi Summer Camp while spots remain available!

  • 8 weeks
  • 16 lessons
  • 20 hours of material

Follow the link to learn more, and sign up today!https://bit.ly/GracieCamps

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Congratulations to the eight students who earned their Kids Black Belt Club invitations this past weekend at our annual Summer Belt Ceremony!

From L to R:

  • Lucy Watson (11)
  • Julius Tapia (7)
  • Camille Grant (
  • Noah Magpantay (7)
  • Gwen Diethelm (9)
  • Evah Efros (9)
  • Jase Macfarlane (9)
  • Hudson Macfarlane (10)

Criteria to enter the Kids Black Belt Club

  • Above-average attendance
  • Technical proficiency
  • Diligent work ethic
  • Positive attitude and behavior
  • Willingness to help others in class
  • Be a team player
  • Never-quit attitude
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Summer 2023 Promotion Gauntlet, featuring two new Black Belts!🥋

Congratulations to (in order as appears on the video):

  • Randy Pearson (66)- Black Belt
  • Chelsea Burgo (39) - Black Belt
  • Troy Tamashiro (41) - Purple Belt
  • Anthony Fama (24) - Blue Belt
  • Jenica Wilson (39) - Blue Belt
  • Karla Peña (17) - Blue/White Belt
  • Johnny Salmeron (27) - Blue Belt
  • Zach Dawson (15) - Orange Belt
  • Miguel Rodriguez (39) - Blue Belt
  • Dustin Ruddell (51) - Blue Belt

Watch the video

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We are blessed to have the most rewarding job in the world. We are inspired every day by our students’ drive, passion, and willingness to be vulnerable on the mats day in and day out.

We witness children of all ages overcome their fears and insecurities and develop the confidence needed to succeed in this less-than-harmonious world.

We witness teens with little to no social skills, some victims of bullying, become assertive, self-assured athletes and respectful and patient young adults.

We witness adults ranging from 18 to 70-year-olds taking chances, overcoming personal difficulties, challenging and learning about themselves, and becoming their best version while pursuing mastery of Jiu-Jitsu.

Truly the best job in the world. We thank our students for their resilience, perseverance, and commitment lessons. We are lucky to be surrounded by many outstanding citizens from all walks of life on a daily basis.

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Well done, everyone! We are very proud of each of our students. A quick shout-out to our staff for working diligently to prepare for the event and ensure it ran smoothly. Thank you, students, parents, and relatives, for your continued trust and support in our work. See you in December for the Winter Belt Ceremony!

Click here to view the photo album

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Congratulations to our beloved long-time student Randy Pearson on his Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt!

66-year-old Randy attended his first class in 2010, and despite being one of the oldest students in our Academy, he has displayed tremendous consistency and dedication to the training since day one.

In the last year and a half, Randy could be seen drilling the required Street Self-Defense curriculum diligently before and after his group classes, helping fellow brown belts master the material before testing for their Black Belts.

His discipline is admirable and has inspired all of us at Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, the staff and students.

Thank you for being an example, Randy; we are very proud of you! This achievement is nothing short of amazing!

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Concluding another productive day improving public health in East Contra Costa County.

Thank you to our students and the local community for trusting and supporting our work year-round.

Your belief in our ability to guide you through the Jiu-Jitsu path, allied with your unmitigated faith in yourself, is all that is needed for success.

The saying Jiu-Jitsu isn’t for everyone is false.

Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone.

What is not for everyone is the willingness to pay its price.

The willingness to stay patient and trust the process.

The willingness to sacrifice comfort.

The willingness to embrace the discouraging days and understand that without accepting and being at peace with them, the rewarding days will never come.

We’ll see you on the mat tomorrow!

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13-year-old Kivian Gracie (L) and 14-year-old Calleigh Maldonado posing for a picture after sparring for 10 minutes, immediately after their class.

These two Jiu-Jitsu BFFs have been training together since Calleigh was invited to the Kids Black Belt Club back in late 2019, which Kivian was already part of.

Since then, they both have been direct training partners in that program, then the Teens Program, and now also in the Adult Program.

To see these ladies’ passion and determination to improve by often sparring after the class (in a class that’s already physically demanding) is admirable.

As it is in life, when we surround ourselves with those on the same mission as us, the tendency is for the path to become less difficult, more fun, and more rewarding.

Calleigh has been training since the Summer of 2017 and has maintained an impressive attendance record since enrolling, participating in every Summer Camp we hosted, attending dozens of private lessons a year, and earning the best attendance award for the Youth Program the last four years in a...

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Smiles from the warriors of the 4-6-year-olds’ program.

You can try to teach children anything you want, but unless they understand what’s expected of them behaviorally during learning time, they will never retain the material. Most importantly, they will never respect the environment they are in.

We teach our youth students to learn by enforcing (every single time there’s a “slip”) what we allow and what we don’t allow on the mat. Children are children, and while the training should always be fun, there must be a very clear message about when it’s time to play and when it’s time to learn.

Earning their respect, first and foremost, is paramount for building an organized and successful youth team. That respect is earned by staying consistent with the rules, praising them when praise is earned, holding them accountable when they make wrong choices, and rewarding them for their efforts.

Historically, youth students at Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, 99% of the time, end up accepting what’s expected of them and get used to behaving that way for as long as they...

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12-year-old Jayden started his Jiu-Jitsu journey six years ago. Jayden is a kind-hearted young man, easygoing, soft-spoken, and patient. He has a good sense of humor, is a math Wizard, and has shown tremendous grit and dedication along his journey.

Jayden has always been a good teammate, hard worker, and his focus has improved immensely over the years. He always enters the mat with a smile and radiates kindness.

During the lockdown in 2020, Jayden stayed tethered to Jiu-Jitsu by participating in our online Zoom classes. He would practice with his younger sister and patiently wait for her as she ran around the room and randomly attacked him! DEDICATION.

In June 2021, Jayden was invited to the Kids Black Belt Club. After joining this elite group, Jayden increased his focus and intensity and developed stronger bonds with his teammates. He and Barron Saeparn enter the zone when partnered together during class. They drill at a fast pace, with perfection, while giving each other feedback.

With Jayden’s high-intensity drilling, he is now reaching a higher skill...

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Caeleb Stanovich started his Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2016 at the age of 7.

His kind and thoughtful characteristics were quickly noticed when he joined our 6-8 year olds. He was coachable, a hard worker, and a good listener. He improved the class dynamics by always doing the right thing and being on task.

Eight months later, Caeleb's exceptional behavior, consistency, and work ethic earned him an invitation to the Kids Black Belt Club. A rare feat for any white belt student to accomplish.

He immediately paid his dues; being a smaller student with less experience, he was the nail for a while. During this phase of his journey, he started developing a passion for Jiu-Jitsu and a deeper bond with his teammates. Seven years later, Caeleb is still close with many of them; he is even in contact with a couple who have left the state.

In 2017 Caeleb's hard work and grit started to surface when he won gold at the American Jiu-Jitsu Cup after testing the waters at the U.S. Open in 2016.

A inspirational experience for Caeleb early on in his journey was attending...

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Crosley Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy Mother's Month Special

Get one month of jiu-jitsu training + uniform for $199 ($380 value). Special ends May 31st, 2023.

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The Jiu-Jitsu community serves a much more meaningful purpose than most understand. With that said I recorded this video to explain what that means, especially after losing a beloved friend and Jiu-Jitsu black belt to depression this week.

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Our beloved Dave has lost the most important “match” of his life, to depression.

While many of us can’t and probably will never comprehend how anyone with so many positive things in life going for themselves can fall victim to it, the fact is that anyone can.

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I am very sad to see that the great Robson Gracie Snr, father of my teacher, Renzo Gracie, has passed away. Years ago Mr Robson Gracie would periodically come up to New York to see his son and stop by the blue basement. When he came we were all expecting a fire-breathing dragon given the nature of his sons! We were completely wrong.

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Thank you, Dustin, for taking the time to share your training experience. We are happy to have you as part of of our student-body!

51-year-old Dustin Ruddell has now been training for about 18 months and has become one of the highest-attendance students of the Adult Jiu-Jitsu program.

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Join us in wishing our beloved youth student turned assistant instructor Antonio Fortier a Happy Birthday today!!🎉🎈

What to say about Antonio? Check out a post we made a month ago

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Congratulations to the newest Kids Black Belt Club member, Laney Waters!

8-year-old Laney joined our program in August of 2021. She has been consistent, coachable, a hard worker, and an excellent teammate. Laney enters the Academy with a huge smile regardless of the kind of day she is having and politely suggests to the Instructor different warm-up options or game options for the day. 😁

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G.R.A.C.I.E. Defensive Tactics and Weapons Retention Seminar for Law Enforcement

May 20, 2023 | Saturday at 11:00 AM

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Exciting news! 🎉 Registration for the most popular Self-Defense Summer Camp in Contra Costa County is NOW OPEN! Head to the link to learn more, and sign up today! 👉🏼 http://bit.ly/GracieSC23

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“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Happy Easter!🙏🏼

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Kivian, Smile!😆

Tomorrow at 11:00 AM, @roylergracie brings a lifetime of combat sports knowledge and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu history to Brentwood, Ca!

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Today marks #WorldHealthDay, an event dedicated to highlighting the importance of human health.

However, in truth, your health should be a priority EVERY day!

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Congratulations, Frankie Thomas! April 2023's Student of the Month!👏🏼

Frankie started her Jiu-Jitsu journey just after her 5th birthday. She was very soft-spoken and somewhat hesitant about Jiu-Jitsu.

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Join us in wishing our beloved instructor Ryan Murphy a Happy Birthday today! 🥳🎈

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Growing up in the Gracie Family, was growing up w/ a unique philosophy about food.

The Gracie Diet was created by my grandfather Carlos Gracie to ensure our bodies’ PH was maintained at a slightly alkaline state, inflammation-free, making it practically impossible for diseases to occur and thrive.

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Soothing the soul in my birthplace with nature, family, childhood friends, workouts, fruit-filled meals, and tranquility.

It is my personal philosophy that the more time I spend by nature, be it by breathing the cold air from the mountains while snowboarding or jumping in a lake or the ocean for a quick energy cleanse no matter the temperature, the stronger and more well-balanced my body, mind, and spirit become.

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Very few things in life equal to the feeling of training with childhood friends. @glauciomota8 @helisamurai

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A Dad asks another: “Why do you spend so much money with training and tournaments and are always running around to make your son learn how to "fight" Jiu-Jitsu?"

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