TEAM HANDBOOK
Welcome to the 2026 Elite Competition Team, a dedicated group focused on maximizing potential through sacrifice for long-term success. Our philosophy centers on building a strong physical foundation, moral qualities, and ethical conduct that extends to all aspects of life.
Expectations
As a team member, you are expected to take ownership of your decisions and results, cultivate self-discipline, overcome resistance, maintain self-motivation, manage time effectively, show respect, cultivate a winning and resilient mindset, be consistent, persevere, be a leader, cultivate patience and focus, act with confidence, and display sportsmanship.
Time & Attendance
Competitive Jiu Jitsu is a year-round commitment; the 2026 season runs from January to October. Competition training is continuous, excluding the first week after PANS and the last two weeks of December. Attendance at all scheduled practices is compulsory. Competition classes are supplementary and not a substitute for regular classes. Communicate immediately with the Head Coach regarding any lateness or absence; occasional absences for school, family, work, vacation, or sickness are understood. Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to tape any necessary injuries prior to the start of practice.
Financial Obligations
All competitors must maintain an annual IBJJF membership ($40.00). Tournament entry fees range from $95 to $230 (Gi, No-Gi, or both). Fees are non-refundable. Athletes are responsible for all travel costs for out-of-state/country competitions.
Uniforms
Uniform use is mandatory for practice, seminars, and tournaments. Wear the Houzn white Gi and/or black rash guard/shorts for practice/in-school seminars, and the Houzn black Gi and/or Houzn rash guard/shorts for tournaments. Note that IBJJF requires a rash guard matching the athlete's belt rank. Athletes must wear a Team T-shirt and/or Hoodie upon arrival at tournaments, changing into competitive gear from warm-up through awards.
Competitions
Elite Team members must participate in at least 80% of scheduled tournaments, aiming to compete monthly. Tournaments are typically on Saturdays/Sundays with morning weigh-ins. Competition times/brackets are usually posted on the tournament website one day prior. Prioritize proper rest and only consume routine food/drink. If cutting weight, contact the Head Coach at least two weeks in advance for a proper diet plan. Bring water and healthy snacks, as concession options are often unhealthy.
Competition Requirements: Remain in uniform for awards; do not wear jewelry; arrive at the tournament in a Team T-shirt/jacket at least 15 minutes prior to weigh-in; be respectful to judges and opponents.
Tournament Selection
The Head Coach selects all mandatory tournaments and will distribute a link to the annual schedule in early January. Athletes must notify the Head Coach immediately if unable to attend a scheduled tournament or if they wish to compete in an unscheduled one. Tournament selection prioritizes progressive confidence building by considering challenge level, probability of success, and potential for growth. The Head Coach is responsible for all competition preparation programs.
Advancement
Advancement criteria are determined by the Professor based on behavior, skill level, effort, work ethic, and likelihood of success at the next level. Promotions are generally determined at the end of the year.
Injuries and Emergency Procedure
Communicate any pain or injury to the coach immediately. The coach will determine if the athlete can work through minor pain or if the activity must be replaced. If an injury prevents attendance for over a week, keep the Head Coach informed throughout rehabilitation. Monthly tuition rates will not be altered due to injury if the athlete plans to remain on the Team post-rehab. For minor injuries, we will apply ice; for major injuries, paramedics may be called. Coaches are CPR and First Aid Certified. Parents will be notified of minor injuries after practice and immediately for major injuries.
Nutrition
Maintain good nutritional habits by choosing nutrient-dense foods over heavily processed options. Proper nutrition is essential for mental clarity and physical fueling for training and performance.
Team Communication
We maintain an open communication policy via email, TeamSnap, or text for fast responses. Address any concerns or questions directly with the Head Coach immediately. Brief conferences can occur after practice; schedule an appointment for full progress discussions.
Voluntary Termination
If an athlete decides to leave the Competition Team, inform the Head Coach as soon as possible. The program requires significant commitment (time and money), and it is unfair to coaches and teammates if attention is divided by an uninvested member.
Athlete Expectations
Joining the Elite Competition Team requires handling advanced training and building strength through deliberate, repeated practice. Be patient, enthusiastic, and understand that consistent practice, not single sessions, drives development.
Competitive Team members must:
- Be coachable: Listen, ask questions, and accept constructive criticism.
- Be respectful of the facility, coaches, and teammates. Talking back to coaches results in removal from class; three occurrences lead to suspension.
- Be a good training partner.
- Attend practices regularly and on time. Athletes arriving more than 15 minutes late will not train.
- Strive to do their best, display good sportsmanship, take ownership of results, and stay focused. Goofing off (3 strikes) results in class removal.
Parent Obligations
Before committing, please confirm that your child can handle the accelerated pace, increased training time, required commitment and discipline, and genuinely desires to pursue Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Also, ensure you understand the financial commitment (tuition, tournament registration, travel) and trust the coaches with a portion of your child’s development.
Your role is to be your child’s biggest cheerleader, despite the difficulty of detaching from their performance. Do not attempt to 'coach' your child or make technical corrections. You chose Houzn for development, problem-solving, and overcoming obstacles; your child will be challenged.
Once your child is training or competing, they are our responsibility, and interference with coaching is not allowed. All development questions or concerns must be addressed by requesting a conference with the Head Coach.
Houzn Competitive Team Commitment
By committing, you confirm understanding of the Team rules, responsibilities, and financial commitments, and believe the program aligns with your child’s goals. You commit to supporting the program and fulfilling your parent role.
Any disagreement or problem with the instructors or program must first be directed to the Head Coach for resolution. If you decide the program is no longer the best fit, you will notify Houzn Jiu Jitsu Academy and withdraw your child. You also understand that actions or words detrimental to the program will result in the removal of your child from the school.