Level I · This Program
Ages 8-12
The Foundational Program
This Fall 2026 cohort - the foundation the rest of the program builds on.
Team Fudoshin Youth Leadership Academy
Level I — The Foundational Program
A 3-class program for kids ages 8-12 that pairs Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu-based physical challenges with lessons in discipline, adversity, and leadership.
- Dates
- Sep 14 · Sep 21 · Sep 28
- Time
- Mondays · 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- For
- Ages 8-12
- Cost
- Free
“Improve Yourself Every Day So You Can Better Serve Others”
Improvement with a purpose
Fitness
Train the Body
Resilience
Train the Mind
Leadership
Train the Character
Service
Train the Purpose
Program schedule
Class 01
Learn, Discipline & Health
Monday, September 14, 2026 · 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Kids build the foundation for the whole program: how to learn, the difference between being told what to do and choosing discipline for yourself, and the basics of staying healthy in mind and body.
What they'll learn
- How to learn
- Discipline vs. self-discipline
- Three pillars of health for mind and body: nutrition, exercise, and rest
Physical challenges
- Relay races
- Team obstacle courses
- Partner drills
Class 02
Adversity & Leadership
Monday, September 21, 2026 · 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Growth requires adversity. This class works on finding the courage to step forward, taking responsibility instead of making excuses, and looking out for teammates under pressure.
What they'll learn
- Adversity is required for growth
- Courage to step forward
- Taking responsibility
- Caring for others
Physical challenges
- Team carries
- Problem-solving events
- Leadership rotations
Class 03
The Team Fudoshin Challenge
Monday, September 28, 2026 · 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Everything from the first two classes comes together in one team challenge, closing with the 10% Rule and a service mindset kids can carry off the mat.
What they'll learn
- Review all concepts
- 10% Rule
- Service mindset
Physical challenges
- Multi-station team event
- Leadership scenarios
- Graduation challenge
Outcomes
What Your Child Will Develop
The goal goes beyond physical training. These are qualities kids can carry into school, sports, and everyday life.
01
Confidence
Speak up, step into new challenges, and trust the work they've put in.
02
Self-Discipline
Choose the harder right over the easier wrong, even when no one's watching.
03
Leadership
Lead by example and take responsibility instead of making excuses.
04
Resilience
Recover from adversity and keep moving after setbacks.
05
Service
Look out for teammates and lead with a service mindset.
06
Accountability
Own their actions and follow through on commitments.
The Path Forward
What Comes After Level I
Level I is the foundation. As kids grow, Team Fudoshin continues with Level II and Level III - each stage building on what came before.
Level II
Ages 13-15
The Emerging Leader Program
- Personal responsibility & accountability
- Goal setting
- Peer pressure
- Mind/body connection
- Communication skills
- Confidence under stress
- Team leadership
Physical training demands increase. The hard things get harder.
Level III
Ages 16-18
The Young Leader Program
- Decision making & follow through
- Character & identity
- Post high school planning
- Public speaking
- Organizational leadership
- Personal physical standards
- Fudoshin Mindset
- Mentorship
At this point, young leaders begin helping coach younger participants - the transition from student to mentor.
For Parents
What to know before you register
Attendance
Parents must attend the final 30 minutes of the final class and are encouraged to attend all sessions.
Waiver
I understand that a parent or guardian must complete the required participation waiver in person before my child participates.
Graduation
Every graduate receives a Certificate and a Wristband. A Team Fudoshin patch and a Challenge coin may be added in a future cohort.
Registration
Ready to join?
Team Fudoshin Youth Leadership Academy
- Program
- 3 Classes
- Ages
- Ages 8-12
- Price
- Free
- Dates
- Sep 14 · Sep 21 · Sep 28
Exurb Fitness / Ratcliffe Park
Cancellation & Refund Policy
If your child can no longer attend, please contact us as soon as possible so we can offer the spot to another family.
Registration
Free
Registration is required to reserve a spot.
FAQ
Questions parents ask
What ages is this program for?
Team Fudoshin Youth Leadership Academy Level I is for kids ages 8-12. It's the foundational program in the Team Fudoshin series.
Do I need to register more than one child at a time?
No. You can register one child or add multiple children to the same registration.
What happens at the final class?
Class 3 reviews everything from the first two classes and closes with the Team Fudoshin Challenge - a graduation event. Parents must attend the final 30 minutes of this class, and are welcome at every session.
Is there a liability waiver?
Yes. A parent or guardian completes the participation waiver in person before a child's first class. Registering online reserves your child's spot and collects an acknowledgement of this requirement - it is not the waiver itself.
Where does the Academy train?
Sessions are primarily outdoors at Ratcliffe Park, close to our regular training home at Exurb Fitness.
How much does the program cost?
There is no cost to attend. Registration is still required because space is limited.
Does my child need any Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience?
No prior experience is needed. This is a foundational program designed to introduce kids to the physical and character-building sides of training together.