2025 Pan Kids Champion: Sage Cruz's Journey
Sage Cruz, a 13-year-old Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athlete from Guam, achieved an extraordinary milestone by becoming the 2025 Pan Kids Champion. His journey reflects years of discipline, dedication, and a rigorous training schedule that includes early morning and late-night sessions. Sage’s accomplishments in 2025 alone include:
- Over 20 gold medals in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and youth MMA.
- Achieving #1 in the ADCC youth global rankings.
- Winning double gold at the ADCC Open in San Jose, California, where he defeated reigning world champion Ian Mondragon.
Training under Professor Jason Vigil at Atos Guam and Island Jiu Jitsu in Honolulu, Sage’s success stems from his commitment to both kids' and adult classes, sharpening his skills against more experienced opponents. His story proves that athletes from small, remote places can excel on the global stage with hard work and a supportive community. For those inspired by his journey, you can find your perfect BJJ gym nearby to start your own training. Sage now sets his sights on the 2026 ADCC Youth World Championships, continuing to inspire young athletes everywhere.
Sage Cruz 2025 Championship Achievements and Rankings
How Sage Cruz Started in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Discovering BJJ at a Young Age
Sage Cruz first stepped onto the mats of Atos Guam, where professors Mike Carbullido and Byron Evaristo introduced him to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. While many kids his age stuck to youth classes, Sage took a different path, immersing himself in both kids and adult classes. This extra dedication gave him valuable mat time and helped him develop a strong technical foundation early on.
Training alongside older, more experienced opponents wasn’t just about technique - it was a lesson in discipline, humility, and perseverance. Facing larger and more skilled athletes pushed him to adapt quickly, sharpening his skills in ways that traditional youth programs couldn't offer. These experiences laid the groundwork for his success on both national and international stages, preparing him for the next big step in his journey.
Building a Foundation at Atos Jiu-Jitsu
Sage’s time at Atos Guam became the cornerstone of his growth. He trained through a dual-academy system, splitting his time between Atos Guam and Island Jiu Jitsu Atos in Honolulu, Hawaii during his off-island periods. This unique setup gave him access to a diverse range of training partners and coaches, creating a supportive environment that felt like a second family.
"I'm so proud to carry what I learned at Atos with me everywhere I compete. It all started back home on those mats training with Coa, Ethan, Tiana, Rylie and my Atos coaches." - Sage Cruz [3]
This close-knit community also reinforced a powerful mindset: athletes from small, remote places like Guam could hold their own on the global stage. Living on a Pacific island meant Sage had to overcome logistical challenges, like traveling thousands of miles to compete. Yet, his commitment to early-morning and late-night training sessions paid off, giving him the edge he needed to succeed.
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Sage Cruz's Training Regimen and Preparation
Weekly Training Schedule and Practice Drills
Sage Cruz's path to championship success revolved around countless hours on the mat. By participating in both kids' and adult classes, he refined his movement, control, and timing against a variety of opponents, including highly skilled ones. This dual training approach sharpened his techniques and prepared him for elite-level competition [4].
At Atos Jiu-Jitsu, the structured training system is designed to develop finishing instincts and precise techniques, ideal for championship-level performance [4]. Sage's preparation placed a strong emphasis on Gi training, which became a cornerstone of his success in major IBJJF youth championships [5]. This meticulous approach led to an incredible 100% submission rate during the 2025 Pan-American events [4].
"These moments don't happen by accident – they're built on years of hard work, faith, and consistency." – Atos Jiu-Jitsu HQ [4]
This rigorous foundation was further enhanced by personalized coaching that fine-tuned his skills and strategies.
Coaching and Mentorship at Atos Jiu-Jitsu
Personalized mentorship played a pivotal role in Sage's development. Under the guidance of coaches Mike Carbullido and Byron Evaristo at Atos Guam, Sage absorbed core values like discipline, humility, and hard work, which became the backbone of his success in national and international competitions [3].
Training alongside teammates such as his brother Luck, Coa, Ethan, Tiana, and Rylie helped simulate high-pressure tournament scenarios, sharpening his competitive instincts. This supportive and challenging environment, paired with his disciplined routine, propelled Sage to become a four-time IBJJF Pan Kids champion and achieve the #1 ranking in his division in the United States by February 2026 [3]. At the 2025 Pan Kids IBJJF Championship, Atos not only took 1st place in the Mighty Mite division but also secured 2nd place overall with 407 points [6].
Competing at the 2025 Pan Kids Championship
Moving Through the Divisions
Sage Cruz entered the 2025 Pan Kids Championship with a reputation that preceded him - a three-time defending champion ready to take on the best. Competing in the 11 to 12-year-old advanced divisions at 36 kg (80 lbs.) and 40 kg (88 lbs.)[1], Sage faced off against some of the most talented young athletes in the country. By July 2025, he had earned the #3 national ranking across all boys, regardless of age group or weight class - a clear reflection of his stellar performance throughout the season[7].
But the road to his fourth title wasn’t easy. Hailing from Guam, Sage had to travel thousands of miles to compete on the U.S. mainland. Along the way, he squared off against world champions and national titleholders at high-profile events like the ADCC Dallas Open, Five Grappling Pro, and select wrestling tournaments. These experiences sharpened his skills and prepared him for the intense competition he would face at the Pan Kids Championship.
Standout Matches and Techniques
Sage’s journey to the Pan Kids Championship was marked by precision and growth, particularly evident in his earlier competitions. At the March 2025 ADCC Open in San Jose, California, he showcased advanced techniques that would later define his Pan Kids performance. His ability to dominate was undeniable - he submitted all but one of his opponents during the tournament, underscoring his sharp instincts and technical prowess.
"Guam kids can be the best in the world if we stay disciplined and keep believing. We're proof that it doesn't matter where you come from - if you work hard enough, you can make your dreams real." - Sage Cruz[2]
These moments not only highlighted his skill but also reinforced his standing as one of the top youth competitors in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His performances at these events demonstrated that hard work and determination could overcome any obstacle, no matter the distance or competition.
Sage Cruz's Future Goals in BJJ
Upcoming Competitions and Belt Advancement
With four Pan Kids titles under his belt and the #1 national ranking among all youth competitors in the United States, Sage Cruz is setting his sights on even bigger challenges. His next test comes at the ADCC Open in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, where he'll compete in the advanced divisions for his age group. As of February 2026, Sage is recognized as the leading ADCC youth athlete and a four-time Pan Kids champion [3].
Sage’s versatility in both Gi (IBJJF) and No-Gi (ADCC) formats makes him a standout competitor. This dual focus allows him to refine a wide range of skills, positioning him as a formidable athlete in both styles. When it comes to belt advancement, Sage prioritizes mastering techniques over rushing through the ranks, ensuring his progression reflects true expertise. This balanced approach not only sharpens his technical abilities but also prepares him for the demands of professional-level grappling.
Finding Advanced Training with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gyms Directory
To achieve these ambitious goals, consistent access to high-quality training is a must. For athletes like Sage, who frequently travel for competitions, finding top-tier training facilities on the road is crucial. When away from his home academies in Guam and Hawaii, Sage relies on elite coaching and training partners to maintain his edge. The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gyms Directory (https://bjjacademyfinder.com) provides a practical solution for youth competitors navigating the national tournament circuit.
This platform offers detailed information about academies across the United States, including instructor qualifications, program details, and user reviews. For someone like Sage, preparing for events such as the ADCC Open, the directory makes it easy to locate nearby academies with advanced programs and experienced coaches. Its location-based search feature also helps families plan training sessions around competition schedules, ensuring young athletes stay sharp and ready to perform at their best between tournaments.
12-year-old Florida boy is #1 Jiu-Jitsu fighter in the world for age group
Conclusion: What We Can Learn from Sage Cruz's Journey
Sage Cruz's rise to becoming a four-time Pan Kids Champion and earning the #1 ADCC Youth rank is a testament to the power of hard work and discipline in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). His journey is built on relentless dedication, with early-morning and late-night training sessions shaping his path to success.
"Guam kids can be the best in the world if we stay disciplined and keep believing. We're proof that it doesn't matter where you come from - if you work hard enough, you can make your dreams real." – Sage Cruz, 2025 Pan Kids Champion
Sage's rigorous training wasn’t just about repetition; it was about adaptability. By incorporating wrestling formats like Greco-Roman, Folkstyle, and Takedown divisions into his routine, he expanded his skill set far beyond the mat. This cross-training approach, combined with his BJJ foundation, gave him a competitive edge. In 2025 alone, Sage and his brother brought home over 20 gold medals across multiple disciplines, proving that versatility in competition refines technique and builds unmatched confidence.
Elite coaching played a crucial role in Sage's development. From Guam to Hawaii, access to top-tier instruction helped him master the technical aspects of his craft. A defining moment came at the March 2025 ADCC Open in San Jose, where Sage submitted reigning ADCC world champion Ian Mondragon with a rear-naked choke. This victory highlighted the results of consistent, high-level training and relentless effort.
For families looking to support young athletes on a similar path, the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gyms Directory is a valuable resource. It offers detailed information about academies across the United States, including instructor credentials and program details, helping parents find the right environment for their child's growth in the sport.
FAQs
What did Sage Cruz do differently in training to win Pan Kids?
Sage Cruz's victory at the Pan Kids Championship was a result of his unwavering discipline and sharp focus during training. His commitment to refining his techniques and sticking to a strict practice schedule made all the difference, helping him stand out and secure this accomplishment.
How did Sage balance Gi and No-Gi competition in 2025?
In 2025, Sage Cruz balanced competing in both Gi and No-Gi formats by committing to disciplined training in each style. Through consistent participation in tournaments and a focus on refining skills for both formats, Sage honed technical abilities and flexibility - qualities that proved essential for success in both disciplines.
How can traveling youth athletes find good gyms to train at?
Traveling youth athletes can find quality gyms by diving into resources that highlight reputable academies. For example, tools like the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gyms Directory offer a wealth of information, including program details, instructor qualifications, and user reviews. These insights make it easier to pinpoint the ideal training environment, no matter where you are in the United States.