Description
The tap is back.
Join us for a true round robin, submission-only no-gi tournament designed for reps, finishes, and leveling up. This event is open to all ages and all skill levels — from white belts stepping onto the mats for the first time, to experienced competitors looking for exciting scraps and controlled wars.
Our goal: maximum mat time, minimum chaos. Expect organized brackets, respectful pacing, and real-time results, all run through Smoothcomp.
✅ True Round Robin Format (Everyone gets multiple matches)
✅ Submission-Only (No points, no advantages — tap or time)
✅ All Ages & Skill Levels (Kids, Teens, Adults, and Masters 36+)
✅ Custom medals, podium photos & pro atmosphere
This isn’t just a tournament. It’s a challenge. Let’s see who makes ‘em tap.
Event Information
🗓 Date & Time
Saturday, August 2nd, 2025
Doors open at 7:30 AM
First matches begin at 9:30AM
📍 Location
Hero Athletics
11214 Outlet Drive
Knoxville, TN 37932
Format and Ruleset
This tournament uses a True Round Robin + Submission Only format. Every athlete is guaranteed multiple matches.
Round Duration: 5 minutes adults and masters 4 minutes kids and teens
Victory Condition: Submission only
If no submission is achieved, a modified EBI-style overtime will be used.
RULES OVERVIEW
ADCC-inspired rule set (No points — submission-only)
No slams in any division — this includes slams *to escape* submissions or *to initiate* takedowns.
No guard jumps allowed in any division — all entries must come from standing engagement or pull with contact to seated guard.
No heel hooks but reaping is ok on the ground, in kids and teen divisions.
Sportsmanship and safety are top priority. Please bring the attitude, the talk, the confidence! We love that, however, any unsportsmanlike behavior will result in an immediate dq.
Unsafe techniques or unallowable subs or failure to listen to the ref or table judge will result in an immediate dq.
Overtime Format (If No Submission)
If a match ends without a submission, we move into a modified EBI overtime
1. One (1) Round Only
2. One round of Rock-Paper-Scissors will be used to decide who goes first.
3. Overtime starts from back mount with hooks in, under hook arm under over hook arm in the air.
4. The defending athlete has *1 minute* to submit their opponent or they fully escape and return to standing . Once the opponent is fully disengaged and standing, the clock stops.
5. The second athlete then takes their turn from the same position.
6. Fastest escape time wins, unless one competitor secures a submission during their round. Is a sub happened in the first minute, the opponent still has their chance to beat them.
Divisions
Age Groups: Kids (4–12), Teens (13–17), Adults (18–35), Masters (36+)
Skill Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Beginner 1 years or less | Intermediate 4 years or less | Advanced 5+ years
Weight Classes will be grouped in brackets based on registration to ensure competitive and safe matchups. Refs will call the match if they believe the opponent is in danger of having an injury. We are a small tournament at our home gym. Safety over everything.
Custom medals and podium photos will be awarded to the top competitors in each bracket.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the venue open?
- Doors open at 7:30 AM
- Weigh-ins begin at 8:00 AM or 2 hours before your division's scheduled start time
How do weigh-ins work?
- You can weigh in at 8:00 AM
- If you miss weight, you will be bumped up to the next appropriate weight class
- Teens must be weighed in by 12:00 PM
- Adults must be weighed in by 2:00 PM
What’s the match schedule?
- Kids divisions begin at 9:30 AM
- Teen divisions begin at 2:00 PM
- Adult divisions will not start before 4:00 PM
- A rules meeting for adult competitors will be held at 3:00 PM Or kids 9am teens noon
Athletes are welcome to leave and come back — just keep an eye on your match times in Smoothcomp. We will not start adult matches before 4:00 PM, no exceptions.
How much are spectator tickets?
- $15 per person
- 3-pack for $35
- 5-pack (team or family) for $50
- Kids 12 and under get in FREE
Will there be food and drinks?
- Yes — concessions and drinks will be available for purchase
- Bottled water will be provided for all athletes and coaches
- This venue is an open air gym, with fans, it can be hot.
How do coach passes work?
- Each gym will receive 1 free coach band
- Additional coach passes are $10 each and can be picked up at the check-in table
