Competition News — October 2025

Ground Rules Academy athlete Ruby Duncay poses with Russell Jensen wearing two gold medals from her victories at BJJ Tour in Fremont, CA

Ruby Duncan Claims Double Gold 🥇🥇 at BJJ Tour: A Breakthrough for our Women's Team

In a historic milestone for our academy, Ruby Duncan—our first-ever female adult competitor—dominated the BJJ Tour at Ohlone College in Fremont, CA, over the weekend. After months of relentless training, Ruby showcased her skills in both gi and no-gi divisions, securing double gold in women's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

In the Gi, Ruby went 2-0 against formidable opponent Victoria Ortega in razor-close matches. Trailing 6-0 in the opener, she mounted a stunning comeback, locking in an armbar submission with just 10 seconds left! 😬 Her second bout was a showcase in control, as Ruby's relentless top pressure shut down Victoria's attacks for a decisive points win.

Ruby on top of the podium with game opponent Victoria

The no-gi bracket featured four determined women vying for gold. Ruby dismantled her semifinal opponent by escaping a tight front headlock, then imposed impressive top control to claim a lopsided points victory.

Ruby's 4th match and no-gi finals saw the return of her opponent from the gi bracket, Victoria Ortega. Victoria came out strong, stuffing Ruby's low single leg attempt and ending up on top in Ruby's closed guard. But Ruby's tournament prep paid off: from the bottom, she launched non-stop attacks, sweeping to top position and grinding out a commanding win!

Four BJJ no-gi female athletes posing on top of the podium at BJJ Tour in Fremont, CA

Ruby on top of the no-gi bracket

Huge shoutout to Ruby for those grueling training hours and unbreakable spirit—you're an inspiration! And endless thanks to her family for the unwavering support. As we all know, winning isn't everything... but it sure is fun.

Upcoming Bay Area Tournaments

For those who are adequately prepared and ready for a challenge, BJJ competition can be an extremely eye-opening and rewarding pursuit. Competition forces you to develop tools for facing big challenges, a skill that translates to every aspect in life.

Warm-up at the Solidarity Jiu Jitsu South Bay Fall Invitational

The South Bay Fall Invitational is a small tournament hosted by our friends at Solidarity Jiu Jitsu in San Jose. This cozy, community-driven event is friendly, well-run, and perfect for first-time competitors (or returning athletes looking for a tune up). Please let me know if you or your child is interested in giving it a shot!

Flyer advertising Solidarity Jiu Jitsu South Bay Fall Invitational on Saturday, October 25th, 2025 in San Jose, CA

Step-up at Jiu Jitsu World League Finals NORCAL

One of my favorite BJJ organizations is ​Jiu Jitsu World League​. They hold several events every year that run very smoothly. The next competition will be on Saturday, November 22nd, 2025 at Adventist Health Arena in Stockton, CA. Please reach out to me if believe that you or your child is ready to take jiu jitsu to the next level.

Jiu Jitsu World League registration prices increase as the event date approaches. The current prices ($89 youth/$99 adults) includes a free rash guard and will be available until October 24th. Please don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions!

Next
Next

October Newsletter — Thank you