Lineage News Letter - November 2024
Free Women's Self-Defense Seminar
Date: November 16
Time: 11 AM - 12 PM
Location: Lineage BJJ, 44723 St. Andrews Church Road, California MD 20619
We're excited to offer a free women’s self-defense seminar on November 16! Space is limited, so please register here to secure your spot. Our last seminar was a great success, with over 50 participants and staff joining, and we're looking forward to another empowering event.
Volunteers: If you’re a member interested in helping out, please reach out to a staff member.
Click here or Scan QR Code to Register
Holiday Gear Prep: Get Your Lineage BJJ Merchandise in Time for the Season!
As the holidays approach, we’re gearing up to make sure you have everything you need from Lineage BJJ! To ensure we have your favorite merchandise in stock—or can place any special orders in time—please let our staff know what you'd like as soon as possible. Whether you're looking for gear, apparel, or gifts, we’re here to help you prep for the season!
Important Dates This Month:
Closures:
November 11 (Veterans Day):
Lineage BJJ: Closed.
Calvert MMA: Instructor-led open mat at 10 AM. All other classes are canceled for Veterans Day.
November 23 (Thanksgiving Day):
Both locations closed on Thanksgiving Day only. We hope everyone has a wonderful time with family.
If anyone finds themselves spending the holiday alone, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our teammates and staff. They would be glad to open their homes and invite you to share in the holiday.
Upcoming Competitions:
Good Fight:
Date: November 9, 2024Location: Benfield Sports Center, Millersville, MD.
New Jersey Fall IBJJF International Open:
Date: December 7-8
Location: Meadowlands Exposition, Center 355 Plaza Drive, Secaucus, NJ 07094
We have two competitors signed up so far! The event will be available to watch on FloGrappling.Good Fight Worlds:
Date: December 14, 2024Location: Olympic Hall at Spooky Nook, Manheim, PA.
Note: Free admission for Youth and Adult competitors who won at States. Choose “pay at door” when registering.
Congratulations to October Belt Promotions:
Natalie P. promoted to Grey / Black Belt
Grey / White: Brox B.
Grey / Black: Natalie P.
Blue Belt: Avram N.
Congratulations to all on your promotions!
Featured Technique of the Month: Self-Defense – Defense Against a Hair Grab from Behind
Technique Description:
This month, we’re diving into a self-defense technique for when someone grabs your hair or ponytail from behind—a common scenario. (And yes, it may be funny because I’m bald, but this is exactly what you’d do if you had hair!)
Steps to Execute:
Reach Back and Secure: Reach back to grab the attacker's hand, pinning it firmly against the back of your head with both of your hands.
Step Back and Duck Under: Step back with one leg, keeping their hand secured as you duck under it, maintaining control.
Raise and Apply a Wrist Lock: Raise your head to apply a wrist lock by pressing their hand downward against the back of your head.
Additional Tip (Real-Life Situation): For added control, kick the back of the attacker’s calf. This will collapse their stance, reducing their height and enhancing the wrist lock’s effectiveness, preventing them from escaping.
This technique is straightforward but powerful, offering an effective defense while immobilizing the attacker.
Member Spotlight:
This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight a family training together at our St. Mary’s location: Ava, Avram, and young Avram Jr.! They have quickly become an integral part of our community, each bringing their unique energy, commitment, and enthusiasm to the mat.
Why did they start training with us?
Avram enrolled his two children at Lineage BJJ with a clear vision: to provide them with a foundation in self-defense, keep them active, and build confidence. Since joining, the positive energy from our coaches and staff has provided Ava and Avram Jr. with a fun and constructive outlet, transforming their “roughhousing” into skilled, focused training.
How long have they been training?
This family began their journey with us on February 22, 2023. Nearly two years later, they’re just as enthusiastic as they were from their very first class!
What do they enjoy most about Jiu-Jitsu?
Ava says her favorite part is simply “fighting”—she laughs as she says it, enjoying the challenge of learning new moves and putting them into practice. Avram Jr. loves the camaraderie of open mat sessions, filled with grappling, wrestling, and mini-games led by their favorite teenager at the gym (special shout-out to James!). They often celebrate these sessions with a family treat afterward.
What benefits have they noticed as a family?
Jiu-Jitsu has brought them closer together, sparking lively dinner conversations filled with move recaps. They’ve also built connections with other families, forming friendships both on and off the mat. The kids’ focus and discipline have improved, carrying over into schoolwork and routines. They’ve also noticed the physical benefits, like increased strength, conditioning, and better sleep!
Any favorite submissions?
Each has a favorite: Avram Jr. is skilled at the Americana and Kimura arm locks, with his hard work shining through in competitions. Ava, on the other hand, loves rear-naked chokes and arm bars, which she calls her “special hugs.” For Avram, it’s the “Family Double Arm Bar”—when he’s on the couch and finds himself in a playful “attack” by both kids. He admits, “I used to escape, but now? Too risky!”
This family embodies the heart of our Lineage BJJ community: strength, family, and a shared passion. We’re honored to have them training with us!
Stay Connected
Follow us on Social Media:
Lineage BJJ:
Calvert MMA:
Join our private Members-Only group: Facebook Group
For Coaches and Helpers: Join our Coach’s Corner
Contact Us
Lineage BJJ
Email: info@lineagebjj.com
Phone: 301-377-8773
Address: 44723 St. Andrews Church Road, California, MD 20619
Calvert MMA
Email: info@calvertmma.com
Phone: 410-257-5425
Address: 25 Dalrymple Road, Sunderland, MD 20689
Ready to Improve Your Fitness and Learn Real Self-Defense?
Whether you want to get fit, learn effective self-defense, or compete, Lineage BJJ has something for everyone, from ages 3 and up. Join the largest and most successful martial arts community in Southern Maryland! As the only certified Gracie Jiu-Jitsu school in the area, we offer authentic training directly from the Gracie family and provide programs that build confidence, skills, and community.
Our fun and supportive environment is perfect for all ages and skill levels. Members of the Gracie family visit us throughout the year, enhancing our students' training experience with direct insights from the source. Try a class for free—it’s completely risk-free. Gain strength, mobility, confidence, and a community that supports your growth, on and off the mats. Contact us today to get started!
