The Groundwork Foundation recently had the opportunity to host a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu seminar at Aguila Jiu-Jitsu in Midland, Texas, marking our first-ever visit to the Permian Basin and West Texas. Sharing Jiu-Jitsu in locations we’ve never visited is central to our mission, and it was an honor to connect with the Midland community through training, learning, and shared experience on the mats.
The seminar was divided into two sessions, beginning with kids ages 10–11 from 10:00–11:00 AM, followed by an adult session from 11:00 AM–12:00 PM. While the material was tailored to each group, the underlying theme remained the same throughout the day: building strong fundamentals and understanding how Jiu-Jitsu connects from standing to submission.
Kids Seminar: From Standing to Offense
The kids’ session focused on introducing Jiu-Jitsu as a complete system rather than a collection of isolated techniques. We explored standing techniques that led directly into attacking positions, helping students understand the importance of balance, timing, and initiative.
We started off with a guard pull that led immediately to an effective angle to execute a fast armbar.
A major portion of the session centered on collar drags, using them as a way to off-balance an opponent and immediately transition into attacks on the turtle position, particularly through high-percentage chokes. Emphasis was placed on movement, awareness, and making smart decisions—skills that translate well both on and off the mats.
From there we focused on concepts to maintain and strengthen understanding of closed guard, a position that offers both defensive and offensive advantages,
The level of engagement from the students was outstanding. Their curiosity, effort, and enthusiasm reflected a strong foundation being built within the Aguila Jiu-Jitsu youth program.
Adult Seminar: Structure, Control, and High-Percentage Attacks
The adult seminar built on the idea of efficiency and intention in Jiu-Jitsu. We started with standing concepts that flow directly into attacking positions, reinforcing the importance of dictating the engagement rather than reacting to it.
From there, we spent significant time on closed guard structure, breaking down posture control, proper grip placement, and angles that allow the position to function offensively. A major technical focus was the cross-choke, with attention given to details that make the technique reliable at every level—including tension, alignment, and common errors that limit effectiveness.
Several additional trademark techniques and concepts were shared during the session – including the Calimbas Lock, giving participants practical tools they could immediately incorporate into their training, regardless of experience or body type.
First Visit to West Texas — and More to Come
This seminar represented the Groundwork Foundation’s first stop in the Permian Basin and West Texas, but it certainly won’t be the last. Our goal is to travel to towns and communities across the United States, sharing both our knowledge of Jiu-Jitsu and the values that make it such a powerful vehicle for personal growth, discipline, and connection.
Every new region we visit strengthens our understanding of how Jiu-Jitsu impacts people from all walks of life, and the welcome we received in Midland reaffirmed our commitment to expanding this mission nationwide.
A Look Ahead: Aguila Jiu-Jitsu’s New Facility
Following the seminar, I had the opportunity to tour Aguila Jiu-Jitsu’s upcoming new location, located just nearby. The new facility represents a major step forward for their academy and their community.
With expanded mat space, dedicated recovery and fitness areas, ample locker room capacity, and additional features such as a parent’s lounge, outdoor play area, and a podcast studio, the new space promises to be a significant upgrade. It’s clear that Aguila Jiu-Jitsu is deeply invested in building a welcoming, forward-thinking environment for its members and families.
Gratitude and Community
The Groundwork Foundation is grateful to Aguila Jiu-Jitsu for hosting and to everyone who attended the seminar. Events like this are about more than techniques—they’re about building relationships, strengthening communities, and sharing knowledge that extends beyond the mats.
We look forward to continuing our travels, visiting academies across the country, and spreading the message of Jiu-Jitsu as a tool for empowerment, resilience, and lifelong growth.
Our Partners
Prof Mike! Thank you for bringing your talents out here to West-TX! It was a pleasure to share what we’ve been working on out here! We looking forward to continuing our support of the Groundwork Foundation and we’re always in your corner!