Thomas Rozdzynski

Frankfort, IL, United States

www.rolacademy.com www.rolacademy.tv www.therolradio.com

Posted

09 Jul 12:03

Over the past few months, I’ve been diving deeper into some of the broader concepts in jiu jitsu — stepping back to look at the ideas that connect everything we do on the mats. You may have noticed more videos focused on strategy, positioning, and overall awareness.

I’m excited to share a few brand-new concept videos that I think will add real value to your training. Each one breaks down a fundamental principle that shows up across multiple positions and scenarios.

Inside Control
Over-hook vs Under-hook
Arm Drags

These aren’t just techniques — they’re tools for understanding timing, control, and decision-making on a deeper level.

Check them out and let me know what you think — your feedback helps shape what I create next. Drop a comment, share your thoughts, and let’s keep learning together!

Posted

09 Jul 09:00

What seminar topic would you love to see at RŌL before the end of the year? 🤔🔥

Drop your ideas in the comments—we want to hear from you! 💬👇

Let’s make it something exciting and valuable for everyone on the mats 🥋💥

4

Posted

07 Jul 09:00

On June 28, 2025, Coach Mike Mahaffey returned to RŌL Academy for a highly anticipated seminar focused on the key principles of base — both in standing positions and on the ground. With his deep understanding of balance, posture, and control, Mike guided students through a hands-on experience that emphasized how proper base can dictate the outcome of nearly any exchange in jiu jitsu.

https://rolacademy.tv/programs/2025-06-28-mike-mahaffey

30lbs that’s huge. Congrats 💥 and still so much ahead 

Reply

06 Jul 11:14

This is a tough question for me… because Jiu Jitsu has truly changed my entire life. But if I had to narrow it down, I’d say it comes down to a few big lessons:

Making decisions under pressure—staying calm when everything feels chaotic. 🧠🔥

Embracing the suck—life is hard, but Jiu Jitsu teaches you that you can do hard things. 💪⚔️

And maybe the most unexpected one: learning to be approachable as an instructor. This was incredibly difficult for me, as I’ve always struggled with public speaking and being social isn’t naturally my strong suit. 🎤😅

Jiu Jitsu has challenged me in ways I never expected—but that’s exactly what makes it so transformative. 🙏✨

Reply

06 Jul 10:44

Since we had a short week last week, we’ll be revisiting our intermediate curriculum—but don’t let that fool you! 🔄 We’re actually diving deeper into the details:

Gi Class: Half-Guard Retention 🥋

NoGi Class: Under hook Control 🤼‍♂️

This is a fantastic chance to level up both subjects and sharpen your game! 🚀🔥 See you on the mats!

Reply

05 Jul 18:01

Thank you Pete

Posted

30 Jun 09:00

🧠 Weekly Question Time!

Alright team—let’s get into it! Drop your thoughts in the comments and feel free to tag your training partners 👇👊

How do you mentally reset after a tough or not-so-great training session?

We all have those days—what helps you bounce back and keep moving forward? 💭💪

3

Posted

27 Jun 16:34

Recent addition to the RŌL TV Library

The gift wrap position is one of the most powerful control points in jiu jitsu, and it opens the door to a variety of high-percentage chokes and submissions. Once you’ve secured your partner’s arm across their body and locked your own arm behind their head, you create a dominant angle that limits their movement and exposes their neck.

11:41

Gift Wrap Chokes

The gift wrap position is one of the most powerful control...

23 Jun 12:38

Alright team, this is the week to dig deep and put in that focused work 💪

Gi Intermediate will center around Gift Wrap Attacks — we’ll explore how to control our partner with precision and transition into strong finishing options from dominant positions.

NoGi Intermediate will focus on S-Mount Escapes, emphasizing how to take advantage of small spaces and low-friction opportunities to safely exit a compromised position.

I highly encourage you to review the videos ahead of time and come in with a plan. The more prepared you are, the more you’ll get out of each session. Let’s keep leveling up — see you on the mats!

Reply