Thomas Rozdzynski

Frankfort, IL, United States

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

 Very specific. I like it. Let’s develop a plan to make you successful 👊🏻

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As a Jiu Jitsu instructor, I’ve never been big on New Year’s resolutions, but I strongly believe in setting clear goals as part of continuous growth and improvement. Progress in Jiu Jitsu doesn’t come from a calendar date, it comes from consistent effort and reflection.

This year, I’m making a conscious effort to connect with each team member individually and to be more available for my students. Building those relationships is just as important as what happens during training.

From a Jiu Jitsu perspective, I’m also focused on refining my own teaching and understanding of the art. I’m currently developing instructional systems centered around specific topics, designed to simplify learning and create clearer pathways for progress. Those will be released later this year, and my goal is for them to add real value to our students’ development on and off the mats.

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03 Jan 11:51

This is a very good question! 

As a Jiu Jitsu instructor, I see this often, and the key is understanding NOT pressure. When a child or student doesn’t want to train, start by asking WHY. Fatigue, frustration, or a drop in confidence are usually the real reasons, not a lack of interest.

Open communication with coaches and instructors is very important. Sharing concerns early allows us to adjust training, provide support, and keep the experience positive.

Shift the focus away from winning or being good and toward effort, consistency, and small improvements. Giving one simple goal per class helps success feel achievable.

Private lessons are a powerful tool as well. They offer individual attention, build confidence, and allow students to progress at their own pace, often reigniting motivation.

Encourage ownership and social connection, and above all keep Jiu Jitsu positive. When students feel safe, supported, and capable, motivation naturally follows.

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That’s a good question. Why am I not at your class 🤔 

29 Dec 20:37

If I had to choose one guard, it would be the lasso. While there’s nothing unconventional about it, at least in my book, I’ve consistently found it to be highly effective.

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29 Dec 10:55

Let’s finish 2025 strong 💪🏻 

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Posted

23 Dec 09:00

On December 13, 2025, RĹŚL Academy had the pleasure of hosting a special workshop with Tim Jurgovan, centered around one of the most dynamic and demanding control positions in Jiu Jitsu: knee-on-belly. The workshop explored the position from a complete systems perspective, beginning with mobility, balance, and pressure, and progressing into effective attacking sequences.

Now available on RŌL TV -  https://rolacademy.tv/programs/2025-12-13-tim-jurgovan

21 Dec 21:08

I believe this is one of the most important questions in Jiu Jitsu. Both aspects play a significant role in the art. Developing the ability to protect yourself and escape compromised positions is essential, whether in a self-defense context or in competition. At the same time, the sport component brings creativity, exploration, and enjoyment to training, allowing practitioners to express Jiu Jitsu in a dynamic and playful way.

I wonder what Jimmy Sinclair or Patrick Morton  thinks about this. 

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Posted

18 Dec 17:01

2025 Graduation Event is now available on RŌL TV 

 https://rolacademy.tv/programs/rol-graduation-2025

I guess I'm the only one crazy enough to have more than 7 gis 🤔

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