Description
Kids BJJ Round Robin – Rules Made Simple
We want every child to feel safe, confident, and excited to compete! Below is a simple version of the rules we’ll be using at the event. These are common rules used in many kids' Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournaments. Our referees and coaches are here to help and make sure everyone has a fun and positive experience.
🕒 Match Length
Matches usually last 3 to 4 minutes, depending on age.
The referee will let you know when the match starts and ends.
🏆 How You Score Points
You can earn points by using good technique and getting into strong positions:
Takedown – 2 points
Guard pass (moving around your opponent’s legs to a strong position) – 3 points
Mount position (sitting on your opponent’s belly/chest) – 4 points
Back control (hooks in, controlling the back) – 4 points
Sweeps (reversing from bottom to top from guard) – 2 points
Points are only awarded if you hold the position for 3 seconds with control.
✋ How You Can Win
Submission: If you make your opponent tap by using a safe and allowed technique.
Points: If time runs out, whoever has the most points wins.
Referee decision: If it’s a tie and no points were scored, the referee will choose the winner based on activity and control.
All competitors will get multiple matches—even if you lose, you keep going!
⚠️ Techniques That Are NOT Allowed
Some moves are too dangerous for kids and will result in an immediate stoppage or disqualification:
❌ No neck cranks
❌ No heel hooks or twisting leg locks
❌ No slamming out of submissions or guard
❌ No scissor takedowns
❌ No striking or aggressive behavior
❌ No submissions that aren’t allowed for your age/belt group (example: no wrist locks for kids)
✅ What Is Allowed?
The allowed submissions depend on the child’s age and belt level, but some common legal techniques include:
Armbar
Triangle choke
Rear naked choke
Straight ankle lock
Kimura / Americana including omaplata
Arm triangles, anaconda and d'arce chokes
Ezekiel
Gi chokes (only in gi divisions)
North south chokes
Guillotine (on the ground)
The referee will always prioritize safety. If a submission is close and the opponent isn’t tapping, the match may be stopped to prevent injury.
🤝 Be Respectful
Shake hands or bump fists before and after each match.
Always listen to the referee and coaches.
Win or lose, show good sportsmanship—cheer for each other and have fun!