Groundwork Foundation partnered with the Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY) and Dominio Combat Club in Mérida to help establish the first university-accredited Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program in Mexico.
What began as a student-run club, led by coaches from Dominio Combat Club, grew steadily over several years as student interest and participation increased. Athletes trained both on campus and at the academy, creating a strong bridge between the university and the local Jiu-Jitsu community.
With Groundwork’s financial and strategic support, discussions were held with Rector M. en C. Carlos Alberto Estrada Pinto and Prof. José Normando Rivas Cantillo, Director of the Institutional Program of Physical Culture and Sport. The proposal highlighted not only the athletic value of Jiu-Jitsu, but its role in education, leadership, and community development. As a result, UADY officially recognized Jiu-Jitsu as an accredited athletic program.
This program now serves as the foundation for building a university team with the goal of competing nationally and internationally. Groundwork continues to support the project through resources such as mats, equipment, competition registration, travel support, and curriculum development.
Long term, this initiative is designed to create a self-sustaining pathway for students—developing athletes, coaches, and leaders who can carry Jiu-Jitsu beyond the university and into their communities. By empowering students with structure, education, and opportunity, the program helps expand access to Jiu-Jitsu for younger generations, strengthens the sport throughout southeastern Mexico, and establishes a model that can be replicated by universities across the country.
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