24249 Hesperian Blvd, Hayward, California 94545

Your Child's First BJJ Tournament: A Parent's Guide

Is your child getting ready for their first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament? In this video, Coach David catches up with his sister Lindsay on the day of her son's very first BJJ tournament. Here's what parents can expect, and how to help your child have a great day.

Before the Tournament

  • Make sure your child is registered in the right age, weight and belt division.
  • Pack the uniform or rash guard, water, snacks, and a sweatshirt to stay warm between matches.
  • Get a good night's sleep and arrive early. Tournaments often run behind, so expect some waiting.

On Tournament Day

Kids handle nerves differently. Some are locked in and planning on gold. Others need reassurance. As Lindsay found out, sometimes the best thing a parent can do is let the coaches do the coaching. Your job is to support, encourage, and keep things calm.

Win or Learn

Every match teaches something. Praise effort, not just results: did your child try their moves, stay calm, and keep going? That's a win no matter what the scoreboard says.

How Competition Works at Mindset Martial Arts

Kids who want to compete are invited into our competition class and earn a yellow stripe. After their first tournament, they earn a red stripe. Read more in How Kids Get Promoted in BJJ, and see our kids competition team and upcoming Bay Area tournaments.

Kids Jiu-Jitsu in Hayward

Mindset Martial Arts & Fitness is at 24249 Hesperian Blvd in Hayward, CA, next to Southland Mall, and has been teaching in Hayward for about 16 years. We're a short drive from San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Castro Valley and Union City. Learn more about our kids martial arts program, including our beginner no-gi class for ages 5 to 12 on Mondays from 4:00 to 5:00 PM.

Check the class schedule or reserve your child's first class.

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