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The premier kids event of the year has officially wrapped up in Kissimmee, Florida. Next-generation talent was on full display. An incredible collection of bright young prospects displayed a truly impressive blend of preparation, technique, and competitiveness. It is fascinating to witness such committed effort from competitors, parents, and coaches. The 2026 Pan Kids served as a tremendous exhibition of jiu-jitsu and a reminder of the promising future of jiu-jitsu. The competition showcased tremendous talent throughout all divisions, with a number of standout performances from elite prospects and dominant academies.

AOJ

AOJ secured the Pan Kids team title with an astounding 437 points. The Mendes led association has long been known for their prowess in mentoring and building young champions. The 2026 Pan Kids event further proved this notion. Athletes such as Icaro Moreno, Arthur Fontes, Sahara Wells, Steven Ortiz, Hadley Weber, and Alek, Ace and Ayla Mendes represented their academy under the brightest lights. Astoundingly, of the 100 athletes competing, AOJ placed seventy-seven on the Pan Kids podium over the weekend. AOJ continues to reap the rewards of their elite professionalism and dedication within the youth ranks.

“I always wanted to have a good kids team because it’s the foundation of this sport.” - Gui Mendes

Gracie Barra

Gracie Barra captured second place in the overall team awards. The powerhouse association earned 366 points and delivered 104 athletes to the Pan Kids podium. The Jiu-Jitsu For Everyone slogan that has affected so many individuals around the world was on full display in Florida this weekend. A phenomenal collection of young champions represented themselves and their academies with admirable vigor. Outstanding prospects such as Kyara Barral, Charley Caballero, Kaitlyn Klein, Blake Russell, Adam Farneti, and so many other young warriors exhibited their skillsets on the world’s biggest stage. Through the work of these next-generation prospects, Gracie Barra claimed another strong performance at a youth major event. 

Alliance

Another major association claimed a podium placement in the overall team category. Alliance secured the third place position with a narrow, nine-point lead over CheckMat. Fifty-two athletes combined for 206 points at the 2026 Pan Kids event, highlighting the fascinating talent within the Alliance youth ranks. Saiteia Dias, Gabriel D’Agostino, Dohyun Kang, Cassandra Gallegos, and Branca Lago among so many other unnamed champions delivered strong performances on the year’s biggest stage. The international Alliance organization continues to deliver outstanding results at the biggest events in the sport. Their continued dedication to forging a remarkable youth program is evident not only in performances such as the 2026 Pan Kids, but also in their incredible adult division prowess.

Congratulations to all the 2026 Pan Kids competitors. The sacrifice, dedication, and courage to step onto the competition stage is apparent. The skill and competitiveness is appreciated. The 2026 Pan Kids is officially in the books, and the entire jiu-jitsu community recognizes the young warriors who make the event so special.