Pan Kids
The most important Jiu-Jitsu event for kids goes down this Sunday, Feb. 14, at the Long Beach Pyramid.
The 2016 Pan Kids Championship will be a day-long celebration of the gentle art for children as young as 4 years old all the way up to teenagers.
The IBJJF has released the schedule and the brackets for the event.
As the day of action nears, we have prepared a quick list to help kids and parents to have a great time at the Pyramid.
Here are 5 important rules of etiquette that will almost certainly guarantee an awesome Sunday of Jiu-Jitsu.
1. Check and recheck the schedule for your kids division
The IBJJF is known for following its schedules to the letter. Don’t take chances and make sure you know the exact time your kid(s) are competing. Plan your wake up time and arrival to the venue with plenty of time for a smooth pre-competition routine. Click here for a map and directions for the Long Beach Pyramid
2. Make a check list
Pack on the day before. Remember to include at least two full gis and belts, water, snacks, shoes, etc. Don’t forget your kids IDs. They cannot compete without it.
3. Leave the coaching to coaches
We understand how nerve wrecking a Jiu-Jitsu competition can be, specially when it involves your kids. Even so, resist the urge to coach your kid as he or she is competing. Even if you are into Jiu-Jitsu, leave that job to your kids’ instructors. Multiple instructions can sometimes be confusing.
4. Support, support, support
Doesn’t matter the outcome, always show support for your kid’s effort. No matter what happened during the match, greet him back with a big smile and a “good job!”. The younger the kid, the more important it is for them to feel the support of those who love them.
5. Don’t argue
Don’t argue with other parents. Don’t argue with the referee. Don’t argue with your kid’s opponent. No matter what happens on the mat, remember it’s a children’s competition and that having a positive environment for the little ones is more important than anything else.
