STUDENT HANDBOOK 

     

    Gator Family

    Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

     

    A Certified IBJJF

    Academy

     

    The purpose of training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is not for fighting, but to perfect techniques that will enhance your ability to defend yourself.  With the recent popularity of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, often the philosophy and purpose of training are overlooked. At GFBJJ we balance the core philosophy and purpose (self-defense, mental growth and physical health) with the modern evolution of Sport Jiu Jitsu and MMA (Mixed Martial Arts).  We believe that everyone has the right to learn how to defend him or herself and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a proven method to do so.

    Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a Martial Art; inherently martial arts develop discipline, character, work ethic, sound mind and body.  Practitioners soon realize enhancements in other aspects of their lives as a result of their martial arts training.

    Few people make the effort to reach their highest potential, and in understanding that, we take a unique approach to our training methods.  It is our promise to provide high quality instruction along with a safe and friendly environment to learn in. You have taken a life-changing step and we are honored to have you as a member of our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu family.

     

    Thank you,

    Wallace Bailey

     

    Introduction

    Mission Statement

     

     

    The goal of our martial arts program is to build self-esteem, teach goal setting skills, create positive peer groups, provide the students with positive activities, and to eventually produce better-educated, contributing and productive members of our society.  We feel that one of our strongest responsibilities is to empower our students with the confidence, persistence and self-discipline to succeed in school, in sports and in life.

    Gator Family Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

    Our philosophy is simply; Martial Arts has helped mold us into the individuals we are today. Through dedication, respect and an indomitable spirit we have succeeded not only in Martial Arts but also in life. We have grown not only physically but mentally as well.  We strive to change lives through Martial Arts and pass on to others what it has given to us “Success”.

     

    Gator Family Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will be closed on various Holidays. Please visit our Calender HERE  for updated schedule.

     

    Occasionally it may be necessary to close the studio due to emergencies or construction.

     

    Contact Information:

    Gator Family Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

    127 E. New York Ave.

    DeLand, Fl. 32720

    Phone: 386-624-6739

    https://www.gatorfamilybjj.com

     

     

     

     

    Philosophy and Purpose of Training

    Self Defense

    The ability to defend yourself and possessions are imperative. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu levels the playing field in many ways.  With a heightened awareness of leverage, balance and technique your chances of walking away from a threat are greatly increased.

     

    While Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can be physically demanding, all students are encouraged to work within their own ability.  Through regular and constant practice, you will realize increased stamina and usable body strength. You will also find cardiovascular benefits to your training as well.

     

    Equally important are the methods for releasing daily stress through practical application of these techniques. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has its own unique characteristics, which differentiates it from any other form of martial arts. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu allows its participants to train at 100% or more with out the risk of injury.

     

    Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu History

     

    Jiu-Jitsu, the oldest form of martial art, originated in India. It spread through China and eventually settled in Japan.

    In 1914, Mitsuyo Maeda arrived in Brazil to help establish a Japanese immigration colony in that developing country. He was aided by Gastao Gracie, a Brazilian scholar and politician of Scottish decent. To show his gratitude, the oriental master taught the basic secrets of that ancient fighting style to Gastao's son, Carlos Gracie.

    Carlos taught Maeda's techniques to his brothers: Oswaldo, Gastao, Jorge and Helio and in 1925 they opened the first jiu-jitsu Academy in Botafogo, a district of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

    Carlos also taught his son Carlson.

    Helio, the youngest brother, who due to his frail health was forbidden from doing any kind of physical activity, got involved in this martial art at the age of 16 when he began substitute teaching for his brother Carlos. In spite of his small frame and weight of only 140 pounds, he became the mastermind behind the development of the style, creating an art that depended entirely upon technique, rather than strength and speed.

    Helio went a step further than his teachers by introducing techniques that required less strength than the Japanese style. Led by him, the brothers were driven by a constant determination to find effective ways to deal with the very possible aspect of a real fight. Daring to break away from the traditional Japanese style, they began experimenting, modifying and perfecting simple techniques that would be effective regardless of stature. That is how the Gracie family developed this style of Jiu-Jitsu. Though this martial art descended from the ancient Japanese style, the differences are quite apparent. Many of the Japanese facets of the art which depended on physical prowess and stiff motion were tossed aside, leaving only pure technique.

     

    Our Lineage

     

    It’s important to know your lineage. Anyone can claim to be a Black Belt. We are connected directly to the person responsible for Jiu-Jitsu,

     

    Mitsuyo Maeda  (Kodakan Judo Expert, over 2000 professional fights )

    Carlos Gracie (One of Maeda’s first students)

    Carlson Gracie (Carlos’s Son)

    Andre Pedenieras (Co Founder of Nova Uniao, MMA Coach)

    Robson Moura (6th Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, 8X World Champion, 6 Time Brazilian World Champion, IBJJF Hall Of Fame Inductee)

    Wallace Bailey (Black Belt under Robson Moura and 2020 Masters IBJJF World Champion)

     

    School Policy

     

    • Everyone must come to class ready to train and with a positive attitude. Let the academy be your sanctuary, try to leave any hardships at the door.
    • Shirts or rashguards must be worn under uniforms.
    • Foul language is not acceptable at anytime for any reason
    • NO chitchat during instruction and training (if it doesn’t pertain to what we are doing it can wait)
    • Everyone must be treated with respect (talking down to, making fun of or humiliating anyone member of the academy will not be tolerated)
    • This is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, there is No Punching or Kicking unless it is required formal training. Punches or kicks will not be tolerated for any reason. Students may be terminated for violations.

    Sanitation

     

    • Cleanliness is a must – Keep yourself and surroundings clean.  Unsanitary gi’s, equipment or persons will not be tolerated. 
    • If you are injured and bleeding occurs, you must leave the mats immediately.  You may continue training once the bleeding has stopped and injury site is covered appropriately.  If blood gets on the mats it is your responsibility. 

     

    NO SHOES ON THE MATS

     

    • Shoes must be worn to class, removed before stepping on mats and placed in cubicles before class. If you have to walk outside the academy or use the restroom, you must wear your shoes. You CANNOT walk outside barefoot then back onto the mat with out cleaning your feet. Repeated offenders are subject to disciplinary action.

    Hygiene

     

    • Fingernails and toenails must be trimmed
    • Gi’s must be clean and free of odors
    • All open wounds must be covered with medical grade tape
    • Frequently inspect your body for skin irritations and infections
    • It is recommended that you have at least 2 gi’s.
    • No Jewelry! 

     General Rules

     

     

     If you are not actively participating in the class you may not engage participants in conversation.

    • Non-students or guest who have not signed a liability waiver are not permitted on the mats.  NO EXCEPTIONS.
    • If you are not training you are not permitted on the mats.
    • Bring your own supplies - Gi, Water/Water Bottle, tape, wraps, etc.
    • Privates Lessons, Seminars – Payments must be made in advance.
    • Private lessons maybe scheduled in advance and payments are to be made at the time of service
    • Seminars are posted in advanced and payments will be collected prior to the start of the seminar
    • Clean up after yourself – Water bottles, tape and/or any other materials must be removed at the end of class.
    • Do not leave your personal items in the studio overnight.  We will not be responsible for lost items.

    Protocol / Procedures

     

    • Leadership will be determined by rank.  The highest-ranking belt controls the floor in the event the head instructor is not present.  

    This means…..

    • The class does not start without the approval of the head instructor or the senior belt if the head instructor is not present.

    Directives and delegation will follow the same protocol.  If the head instructor so chooses to remove himself/herself from their roll on the floor they must delegate their responsibility to the senior belt holder.

    Asking a higher ranked student to roll is not permitted. When grappling you should be aware of your surroundings and yield the right of way to higher ranked students.

    Salutation

    Extreme importance should be attached to the salutation (Salute), which is an important part of training in the martial arts.  Students should bow to their instructor and before stepping onto the mat. Students should not lose self-control, prudence, or composure before, during or after training or competition. The student should always show respect to their instructor or opponent by bowing or a handshake at the end of training or competition. Students should always present themselves before training or competition with a neat, clean and intact uniform.

     

    Starting Class

     

    Students will line up according to rank and seniority.  The higher ranked students will be on the right. The instructor will take the position in the front of the class.  Assistant instructors are to line up in front of the class.

     

    During Class

     

    When instruction is being given students should not be engaged in conversation.  If you have a question, ask the instructor. Everyone should be participating in the warm-ups.  If you are unable to perform an action you may substitute it with something else.

    Late Arrivals

    When a student comes to class late, he or she should quickly join the class.  You will not be permitted to do your own thing while others are training.

     

    Basic Actions

     

    In order to promote improvement in skill, one must learn the basic actions and practice them constantly until they are perfected. Concentration and persistence must also be expended by students to master the various positions. Through regularly spaced training sessions and a high volume of repetition, precise and accurate techniques will result.

    Dismissing Class

    As in the beginning of class, students line up according to rank.  The instructor or senior student gives any closing remarks.

    All students should take part in cleaning the academy since a high degree of cleanliness must be maintained.  All water bottles, tape and other training aids must be removed and disposed of properly at the end of your training session.

    Locker Room

    Gator Family Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is not responsible for items left over night.  Be sure to store your belongings neatly to prevent them from being lost or tampered with.  The locker rooms will be cleaned nightly. To prevent your belongings from being thrown out we recommend you check your bag before you leave to make sure you have everything you came in with.

     

    Private Instruction

     

    Private Instruction Fees:  Minimum $100. / 1 Hour

    Any instruction beyond 60 minutes shall be negotiated with the instructor directly.

     

    Belts and Promotions

     

    Kids and Teens promotions are on a monthly basis. Promotions are based on Attendance of a minimum of eight classes during the testing period. Good Behavior on and off the mats and the Ability to demonstrate the techniques covered during the month to the best of the students ability. If all the requirements are met the student will Earn a white stripe for four months, a red stripe the fifth month and is eligible for a Belt Promotion on the sixth month. No child under the age of eighteen will be awarded a Black Belt. .

     

    Adult promotions are based on Attitude, Attendance and the ability of demonstrating the techniques covered. Promotions are not based on athletic ability, competition success or how many people a student submits. When a student has attended at least sixteen classes the Professor will evaluate for a stripe promotion.

    The Robson Moura Association promotes adult students to Green Belt between White and Blue Belt. Professor Robson’s first teacher Ailson “Jucao” Brites practiced this promotion and Professor Robson carries on the tradition.