This week gi study starts to look at how we can pass of defeat the lasso guard. Sometimes I think passing a guard is the best way to find out how to make it stronger. Find our what the other person is looking to do and you'll see opportunities to stop them.

Something I've been learning through other coaches is when kids are getting frustrated is getting them to make promises. Often times promises hold a much higher value to little kids. All that promise needs to be if for them to go out an do their best. They need to understand as coaches or parents that is all we should want. If they are doing their best and lose or can't hit a technique, the moment they step off the mat or field life goes back to normal. The best part is the next practice, game, match, tournament is an opportunity to reset. If we really take the time to explain this and make sure they understand I'm seeing it help.I also think kids seeing their parents out there training is an underrated motivating factor. I've seen it before, going to the gym becomes a special time for the child and parent. Participating in gym sponsored events will also help them gain friends. If they have friends they will want to be there more to at least see their friends.

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Compete at least 1 time, planning to be part of the Tap Cancer Out group again.

Implement some of what I'm learning from coaching youth wrestling into my jiujitsu. 

Visit at least 1 new gym, its a great way to make connections.

Aside from live instruction and rolling I get a lot from YouTube. I actually get more this way than I do from instructionals. 

Im at a point where I'm usually trying to learn or pick apart one specific thing. YouTube or the YouTube short videos really let me hone in on one thing. Plus I'm able to quickly eliminate what I know isn't a good fit for me. Instructionals are great but this let me hyperfocus on a detail or move vs a concept. I will say you need to be careful early on in your jiu jitsu journey if going down the YT rabbit hole. There is definitely some questionable move sets and instructors out there.

Gi study will be another great week. We will be looking at more lasso attacks this week. 

No better way to start off your 2026 than by learning a new position or taking another look at one you've already explored. 

See you all Tuesday!

Tim Jurgovan and Thomas Rozdzynski then why aren't you at advanced for this block that's all about lasso guard?I too find lasso or spider to be effective as most people don't seem to be putting a large focus here. For a submission, I like hitting a triangle when I'm in bottom side control. Maybe technically it's an inverted triangle but still. Seems non-threatening at first.

It's a short week but a good week.Come see me tonight for no gi intermediate opening training.

Then you can switch gears and finish the year strong with some lasso guard in gi study on Tuesday.

Let's finish 2025 strong!

I agree 100% with Tim Jurgovan that if you learn the self defense aspects it carries over. Sure you might not learn some crazy things like worm guard, but I think mastering the self defense aspects might even stop someone from getting to those positions. 

Gi study will continue looking at lasso guard with a focus on sweeps.

Just saying open mat on 12/24 is a great time to test out all of your new lasso guard techniques. If you haven't checked out coach Tim Jurgovan  knee on belly seminar, some lasso sweeps provide a great entry to knee on belly.

Great observation!I feel like an extra gi or rash guard never hurts.