Every Cop a Blue Belt

The Every Cop a Blue Belt program was adopted in 2021 as part of local police reform. Since then, the North Tonawanda Police Department has supported the  program which encourages officers to participate in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and fitness classes to maintain officer readiness. 

The program encourages officers to achieve the rank of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu blue belt, which is an 18-24 month process, that gives officers the ability to show their technical proficiency in BJJ and leadership qualities. 

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a self-defense martial art based on grappling, ground fighting, and control holds. BJJ approaches self-defense by emphasizing taking an opponent to the ground, gaining a dominant position, and using a number of techniques to attain compliance.  

Our BJJ program instructors are NYS IDC certified defensive tactics and fitness instructors. 

As the program continues to grow, it is now hosted at Lumber City Combat Sports in North Tonawanda ( 27 Main Street). The facility offers fitness and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes for children and adults and is opened to the public. Discounts are offered to veterans, first responders, and family memberships. The instructors are certified by the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and are NYS law enforcement physical fitness and defensive tactics certified. All area law enforcement and first responders are encouraged to take part in the program. For more information visit Lumbercitycombatsports.com.