06/13/2026
Why I Believe Kids Should Compete in BJJ
After years of coaching kids in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition, I’ve seen firsthand how much they can grow through the experience. While everyone enjoys seeing their child win a medal, the real value of competition is in the lessons it teaches along the way. Here are a few reasons why I believe competition can play an important role in a child’s development (both on and off the mats).
1. Learning to Face Challenges
One of the things I love most about competition is that it gives kids an opportunity to do something hard. Walking onto a mat in front of a crowd takes courage. Most kids are nervous. That’s normal. Learning to compete despite those nerves teaches them that being brave doesn’t mean you’re not scared. It means you’re willing to step forward anyway.
2. Learning That Winning Isn’t Everything
Every child loves to win, but some of the biggest lessons come from the matches that don’t go their way. Competition teaches kids how to handle disappointment, regroup, and keep moving forward. They learn that one bad match doesn’t define them and that improvement comes from showing up, working hard, and trying again. Those lessons are valuable far beyond Jiu-Jitsu.
3. Understanding the Value of Hard Work
Competition has a way of showing kids that effort matters. When they train consistently, pay attention in class, and put in extra work, they usually perform better. When they don’t, they see that too. It helps them understand that success isn’t something you’re given. It’s something you earn through preparation and persistence.
4. Building Respect and Character
At the end of the day, the goal isn’t to raise champions. It’s to help raise good people. Competition teaches kids how to respect their opponents, listen to their coaches, support their teammates, and represent themselves with pride. They learn how to win with humility and lose with dignity. In my opinion, those are the lessons that matter most and the ones that will stay with them long after the tournament is over.