08/10/2026
This weekend was the kids and the adults to shine at Chicago Open IBJJF !!
Our kids stepped onto the mats today and performed amazingly. With just 11 competitors, we took 2nd place overall as a team!🥈
For many of our adult white belts, this was their first time competing. They stepped onto the mats, faced the challenges and problems that competition brings, and continued to fight forward—even when they found themselves in bad positions.
That’s what Jiu-Jitsu is about.
It’s not about everything going perfectly. It’s about learning to trust yourself, staying calm when things get difficult, solving problems, and continuing to move forward when your body and mind are telling you to stop.
We could not be prouder of this team. Watching these kids step out there, trust themselves, and put their training to work is what makes all the hours in the academy worth it.
A huge thank you to all of our parents, teammates, coaches, and supporters who took time out of their day to come support the team. Your encouragement makes a difference.
Together, we are stronger.
Now it’s time to get back to the lab. Monday, we sharpen our skills, learn from today, and get ready for the next challenge.
Catherine | Jiu Jitsu Black Belt | Team Checkmat |
Martial Arts Software 🥋