Ages 7–10 · Fairfield, CT

Stronger On
And Off The Mats.

Our kids program helps children ages 7–10 build confidence, discipline, focus, respect, and real anti-bullying skills — in a safe, structured environment.

  • Anti-Bullying Skills
  • Confidence & Discipline
  • Beginner Friendly
  • Structured Classes
  • Positive Environment
Claim Your Free Intro Class View Class Schedule
★★★★★ 4.9/5 from Fairfield parents
500+ Families Trained
Beginner Friendly
Safe Environment
Structured Classes
Positive Coaching
Sound Familiar?

Modern Kids Are Facing
Real Challenges.

Too Much Screen Time

Kids 7–10 are spending more time on tablets and games than ever before. Screen dependency is replacing physical challenge, real friendships, and the kind of active problem-solving that builds character.

Low Confidence

Many kids this age struggle to speak up, try new things, or handle rejection. Without a structured environment to be challenged and succeed, that quiet self-doubt grows louder every year.

Bullying

Bullying peaks during elementary school. Kids who haven't been taught to stand their ground — calmly and confidently — are more vulnerable. Awareness, assertiveness, and self-belief matter now more than ever.

Lack of Focus

Teachers say it constantly: kids can't sit still, can't follow instructions, can't stay on task. The structured, demanding nature of jiu-jitsu directly trains the attention and discipline that carries into the classroom.

The Transformation

More Than
Martial Arts.

We don't just teach techniques. We build kids who show up differently — at home, at school, and in life.

Confidence

Every class is a small win. Kids learn to fall, get back up, and try again — building unshakeable self-belief one step at a time.

Discipline

Structure, respect, and accountability are woven into every class. Kids learn that showing up and doing the work — consistently — is how real improvement happens.

Focus at School

Parents tell us constantly: their child pays more attention in class, follows instructions better, and finishes homework faster. Jiu-jitsu trains the brain as much as the body.

Fitness

An hour of active movement, problem-solving, and physical challenge. Real exercise that screens can't replace — and kids actually look forward to it.

Social Skills

Training partners become real friends. Kids learn to communicate, cooperate, compete respectfully, and celebrate each other in a genuine team environment.

Anti-Bullying

We teach kids to set boundaries, use their voice, and when necessary, physically protect themselves — with calm, awareness, and confidence instead of fear.

See It In Action

See Why Fairfield Parents
Love Our Program

BJJ Kids Program Fairfield — click to play YouTube
Kids BJJ drilling class — click to play Kids Success Stories
BJJ belt ceremony — click to play Instagram
Parent testimonial — click to play TikTok
Real Results

What Parents Are Saying

★★★★★

My son was being bullied at school and had become completely withdrawn. After two months here he walks differently — his posture changed, he speaks up, he has real friends. The coaches genuinely care about these kids.

Jennifer M.
Jennifer M.
Mom of Tyler, age 8 · Fairfield, CT
★★★★★

Since joining, my daughter is more focused at school. Her teacher literally commented on it at parent-teacher conferences. She's listening better, finishing her work faster. I didn't expect that from a martial arts class!

David R.
David R.
Dad of Sofia, age 9 · Fairfield, CT
★★★★★

My son was extremely shy — wouldn't raise his hand, wouldn't talk to new kids. Now he introduces himself, makes eye contact, and isn't afraid to try things. This program changes kids in real, lasting ways.

Maria C.
Maria C.
Mom of Carlos, age 7 · Fairfield, CT
★★★★★

We tried soccer, basketball, even piano. Nothing stuck. This clicked immediately. He asks to go to class — he never asks for anything like that. The discipline they build here is something school can't always give.

Kevin T.
Kevin T.
Dad of Marcus, age 10 · Fairfield, CT
★★★★★

I was nervous she'd get hurt. The coaches explained everything — the focus is safety and learning, not rough play. She loves it and hasn't been this motivated about anything in years. Highly recommend.

Amanda L.
Amanda L.
Mom of Ava, age 8 · Fairfield, CT
★★★★★

His self-esteem was really low — he'd say he wasn't good at anything. Six months in and he's earning stripes, helping other kids, and smiling every single class. Worth every penny.

Robert P.
Robert P.
Dad of Ethan, age 9 · Fairfield, CT
Pick Your Day

Class Schedule

Age Group Days Time
Little Champs (4–6) Mon – Fri 4:30 PM
Kids (7–10)This Program Mon – Fri 5:10 PM
Kids (7–10)Saturday Saturday 10:45 AM
Teens (11–14) Mon – Fri 6:05 PM
Book a Free Intro Class

⚠️ Limited spots available — classes fill up fast.

No Surprises

Your Child's First Class

We know the first step is the hardest. Here's exactly what to expect.

Book Online

Pick a day that works for your family and reserve your free intro class in under 2 minutes. No credit card required, no commitment.

Meet the Coaches

Arrive a few minutes early. Our coaches will welcome you, answer your questions, and make your child feel comfortable before stepping on the mat.

Try a Class

Your child joins a beginner-friendly session designed for first-timers. No experience needed — we start with the basics and build from there.

Have Fun & Build

Sweat, laugh, high-five new friends, and leave with a real reason to come back. The first class is just the start of something bigger.

Our Founders

Built on Legacy.
Driven by Purpose.

Professor Deborah Gracie and Mestre Marcio Stambowsky
In Memoriam Mestre Marcio 1956 – April 2, 2026 · 7th Degree Red & Black Belt
Founder & Professor

Professor Deborah Gracie

Professor Deborah Gracie is the heart behind Gracie Sports — bringing authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to the families of Fairfield. A dedicated practitioner and teacher, she built this academy with a single mission: to transform lives on and off the mat. Her warmth, discipline, and passion create an environment where every child feels challenged, respected, and celebrated.

7th Degree · In Memoriam

Mestre Marcio Stambowsky

Mestre Marcio was a 7th Degree Red & Black Belt and a true giant of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He dedicated his life to the art and to the people who practiced it — mentoring generations of students and teachers with the same generosity and humility that defined every step of his journey. He passed on April 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy that lives in every class we teach.

"The mat teaches you what life cannot. It doesn't lie, it doesn't flatter — it reveals who you truly are."

♥ Forever on the mats — forever in our hearts

Meet the Team

Experienced Coaches
Who Truly Care

Coach Thyago Ribeiro — BJJ Kids Instructor Fairfield CT

Thyago Ribeiro

Head Instructor · BJJ Black Belt

Thyago brings a rare combination of competitive excellence and genuine care for kids. Having trained hundreds of children in Fairfield, he understands what it takes to build not just skilled athletes, but confident, disciplined young people. His energy on the mat is infectious — and unforgettable.

Coach Ivo Bruno — BJJ Kids Instructor Fairfield CT

Ivo Bruno

Kids Program Specialist · BJJ Black Belt

Ivo has dedicated his career to youth development through martial arts. He has a unique ability to connect with kids who are shy, anxious, or struggling — and turn their hesitation into confidence. Parents trust him completely. Kids grow to look up to him like a big brother.

Every child seen, encouraged, and challenged at their level
Zero tolerance for negativity — team environment only
Safety-first teaching with age-appropriate techniques
Regular parent updates on your child's progress
Why We're Different

Why Parents Choose Us

Other Activities Our Program
Passive learning Active confidence building
Screen-based entertainment Real social interaction
No discipline structure Structured, measurable growth
Temporary fun Long-term life skills
No anti-bullying training Real self-defense awareness
Generic group activities Individual progress tracking
Got Questions?

Frequently Asked
Questions

Not at all — shy kids often thrive the most here. Our coaches draw out quiet children without pressure. The structured environment helps shy kids feel safe, and the small wins build confidence naturally. Many of our most successful students were very shy on day one.
Zero experience required. The free intro class is designed specifically for first-timers. We start from scratch — how to fall safely, basic positions, fundamental movement — and build at a comfortable pace. Your child will not be thrown into something they're not ready for.
BJJ is widely considered one of the safest martial arts for children — there is no striking. Techniques are control-based, and the first thing we teach is how to fall safely and tap (stop) when uncomfortable. Our kids classes use age-appropriate techniques and are supervised at all times.
For the free intro class, comfortable athletic clothing is perfect — shorts or sweatpants and a t-shirt. No shoes are worn on the mat. If your child decides to continue, we'll guide you on getting a gi (uniform) at an affordable price.
Yes! Parents are welcome to watch from our designated viewing area. Knowing you're nearby helps kids feel comfortable and settle in faster. We have a comfortable waiting area — some parents stay for every class, and we love having engaged families.
We recommend 2 classes per week for kids 7–10 — which matches our Tuesday & Thursday schedule. Two sessions per week is enough to build real progress, develop consistent habits, and see meaningful behavioral changes without overloading your child's schedule.
This program is for kids ages 7–10. We also have Little Champs (ages 4–6) and a Teens program (ages 11–14). Each program is built specifically for that developmental stage — different curriculum, coaching style, and class structure tailored to the age group.
Ready to Start?

Give Your Child More
Than Just an Activity.

Help them build confidence, discipline, focus, and real-life skills that carry well beyond the mat.

Start With a Free Intro Class
⚠️ Limited spots — classes fill quickly

Questions? Call: (475) 250-2134  ·  220 Carter Henry Dr, Fairfield, CT 06824

🥋 Beginner Friendly
👨‍👩‍👧 Family Environment
🛡️ Safe Training
⭐ Positive Coaching
🏆 Proven Results
🥋 FREE INTRO CLASS — Book Now