What GU’s Email Means for You (And Why It’s All Good News)

Clearing the Air After Gracie University’s Email

Some of you have already forwarded me the email that Gracie University sent out, titled “Gracie University Students of Bowie.” I want to take a moment to clear the air so there’s no confusion about what this means for you as a member of Bowie Jiu-Jitsu Academy. You can read our previous blog post thanking GU for the start here. We were disappointed to see GU’s email suggest that leaving their network somehow means our Academy will lack safety, structure, or legitimacy. Nothing could be further from the truth. Bowie Jiu-Jitsu Academy has always prioritized safety, clear structure, and high-quality instruction — and that commitment isn’t changing. In fact, independence has made it easier for us to serve our students better than ever.

Their message framed the transition as a loss. In reality, what you have now are gains — more freedom, more affordability, and more connection to the instructors who actually know you. Let’s break it down.

Safety & Structure Stay the Same

One of GU’s main points was that they will no longer be “monitoring safety practices” here. The truth is, safety has always been a local responsibility — and it always will be. Our classes remain structured, with clear attendance cards so every student knows exactly where they stand in their journey. For kids, we’ve added wristband rewards that recognize focus, leadership, and effort in every class.

Our Own Curriculum, Designed for You

GU mentioned their proprietary programs won’t be taught here anymore. That’s correct — and it’s a good thing.

We’ve replaced them with programs tailored to our students:

• Sweet 16 Fundamentals — a streamlined path for beginners focused on real-world self-defense.

• DefendHer™ — our women’s self-defense program, now with a smoother pathway into advanced classes.

• Bully Blockers™ — our kids’ program with age-appropriate groups and more engaging progress markers.

These programs keep the self-defense focus while making training more fun, affordable, and accessible.

Promotions with Real Connection

GU said promotions here will no longer be “verified by Gracie University.” That’s true — because now, they’re handled by instructors who actually train with you.

Our promotions are guided locally under the support of CAT5BJJ, led by black belts Anthony Nelson and Alberto Da Silva. These instructors, one of which is local, bring decades of experience and ensure your rank is recognized with integrity and real oversight, not just paperwork from California.

Freedom & Affordability

One of the biggest benefits of independence is freedom. Here’s what that means for you:

• Bring any gi — no mandatory brand or patches.

• Lower prices — membership options that GU’s system never allowed.

• Easy cancellation — no long-term contracts or penalties.

We put students first, not corporate policies.

What’s Ahead

We’re currently filming our own video library so you’ll have access to resources created on our mats, with your instructors.

And for both adults and women, we’ve made it easier than ever to experience live rolling (sparring) and move into advanced classes without unnecessary roadblocks.

The Bottom Line

While GU’s email listed what you’re “losing,” what you really have now are gains:

• More safety accountability right here at home

• A curriculum built for you, not for a franchise

• Promotions from instructors who know your journey

• Freedom, affordability, and connection

Bowie Jiu-Jitsu Academy has never been stronger, and the future is only getting brighter.

Want to see the difference for yourself? Check out our programs using the navigation bar above.