Athletes at QuanWessels Academy in Sunninghill were put through their paces during a Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) grading event, where progress was measured not only by technique, but by discipline, consistency, and resilience.

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Coach Guy Lazarus explained that, by the time learners step onto the mats for grading day, much of the hard work has already been done. “The grading itself is more of a formality and a tradition. At this point, they’ve already passed. They’ve completed their attendance cards and their skills test, which includes teaching a class to their peers.”

In the weeks leading up to the grading, students were required to prepare and present classes, testing both their technical understanding and confidence. “We call it a touch in the fire. They roll with everyone in their class for one or two minutes. It puts them through a bit of hardship so they can feel like they’ve earned their belt, that it has real meaning and value.”

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The belt system progresses through white, grey, yellow, orange, and green, with three stages per colour, a white stripe, solid colour, and black stripe, allowing for gradual development over time. “The more they train, the quicker they progress, as with any skill.”

Lazarus said, beyond physical ability, the grading plays a significant role in personal development. “What it does is give them motivation and understanding of what they’re working towards. It helps build resilience and resolve, that ability to see something through, even when it’s difficult.”

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