BLUE BELT MINION
Huge congrats to Wyatt on earning his Blue Belt! Wyatt has been with us for a little over two years and has grown so much in the last year in particular. Wyatt has become such an integral part of our academy and culture, always bringing the heat on the mats and a very positive and open attitude with it! I think Wyatt is such a great example of someone who can train hard, train intentionally, but always keep it fun and positive. It’s always good vibes with Wyatt on the mats, and we look forward to many more years of training!
IBJJF
Just a reminder that the IBJJF Spring Chicago Open is this weekend: Saturday the 5th, and Sunday the 6th. Best of luck to Jack, Paul, Kevin, Alyson, Valerie, Kaleo, Sam, Liam, Andre, Andrew, Karen, and Ryan! Regardless of the outcome, I’m incredibly proud of everyone for challenging themselves and stepping out onto those blue and gold mats!
If you’re interested in coming to this event, let me know! It is totally free to spectate and I have room for three in my vehicle (the only caveat being you have to stay as long as I stay, which will be until everyone is done competing!). I will be going down and back both days, so reach out to me if you want to ride along!
Fundamentals: last week in our Fundamentals classes we studied both the Bus Driver sweep and attacking the Triangle from Spider Guard; passing to the Mount ad utilizing the Backstep or High Step to pass the SLX; and finished out the week by drilling the Upa escape from the Mount position – including punch defense!
Advanced: in Advanced class we studied how to force our partner into RDLR while passing so we can set up our Long Step pass. We also briefly drilled bottom RDLR concepts including recovering a more defensive guard and attacking the Tripod sweep from RDLR.
No Gi: in No Gi this week we drilled Turtle Side Control escapes and attacking the Belly Down sweep and G-Roll from the Half Guard Shin Shield.
This week in kids’ class we worked on spider guard attacks, including the bus driver sweep and a triangle. In no gi, we worked on mount escapes, focusing on choosing our escape based on how our opponent is playing mount. Congrats to Gwen for leveling up her belt. Gwen brings a playful attitude to her Jiu-Jitsu which makes her a great training partner!