Year in Review: Growth, Competition, and Community in Arlington, VA

As the year comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on what has been one of the most exciting and meaningful years in Kogaion Academy’s history. From expanding our kids programs to competing on some of the biggest stages in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo, this year has been defined by growth, structure, and a deep commitment to our Arlington, VA community.

If you’ve been searching for jiujitsu near me or judo near me in Arlington, this recap highlights exactly what sets Kogaion Academy apart.

Expanding Our Kids Programs: Four New Classes Added

One of our biggest milestones this year was the expansion of our youth programs. We added four new kids classes and fully specialized our kids Brazilian jiu-jitsu and kids judo programs to better serve different age groups and experience levels.

Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all class, we structured our kids programs to focus on:

• Age-appropriate skill development

• Clear technical progression

• Confidence, discipline, and teamwork

• Safe, structured training environments

Families looking for kids jiu-jitsu in Arlington, VA or kids judo near me now have access to programs designed with intention, not just scaled-down adult classes.

Some of our kids after a successful BJJ and Judo belt test this December.

Competition Growth: Representing Kogaion Academy

Competition is never required at Kogaion Academy, but for students who want to test themselves, we proudly support that journey.

We had students represent Kogaion in BJJ superfights at Fight2Win and on the IBJJF major circuit, including IBJJF Pans, Masters Worlds, Europeans, and Nogi Worlds. We also showed up to charity quintets like Grapple4Life, women-only tournaments like Joan of Darce, and local Grappling Industries frequently throughout the year.

From first-time competitors to seasoned athletes, our team showed resilience, sportsmanship, and technical excellence. These experiences help students grow not only as martial artists, but as confident individuals.

Our final tournament of the year: Four gold medals and one bronze with 13 submissions on December 20, 2025

Our Coaching Team’s Professional Accolades

Coach Beatrice capped off the year with elite-level results on the international stage. In the IBJJF adult black belt division, Coach Beatrice finished the year ranked:

• #9 in No-Gi

• #8 in Gi

These rankings reflect years of discipline, high-level competition, and ongoing study, experience that directly benefits every student training at Kogaion Academy. When you train here, you’re learning from a coach actively competing and refining techniques at the highest level of the sport.

We’re also proud to recognize Coach Victor, who earned his International Judo Federation (IJF) UCJI Coaching Certification: a significant milestone that reflects his commitment to world-class instruction. The IJF certification emphasizes modern teaching methodology, athlete safety, long-term development, and technical accuracy, ensuring our students receive coaching that aligns with the highest international standards. For families and athletes searching for judo near me in Arlington VA, Coach Victor’s certification reinforces Kogaion Academy’s dedication to providing structured, credible, and professionally guided judo training right here in the local community.

Looking Ahead in Arlington, VA

As we move into the new year, our focus remains the same:

• Purpose: Structured and goal oriented training and coaching

• Progress: A clear path forward

• People who push you: A welcoming, high-quality training environment

Whether you’re an adult searching for jiujitsu near me in Arlington VA, a parent looking for kids judo, or someone brand new to martial arts, Kogaion Academy is proud to serve the Arlington community with purpose and professionalism.

Thank you to every student, parent, and supporter who made this year possible. We can’t wait to continue building together.