Where EveryBlack BeltBegins.
Dojo Youth Martial Arts League — competitive tournaments for ages 6–16. Kata, sparring, weapons forms. Saturday mornings, orange slices included.
Three Ways to Compete
Every division is designed with age-appropriate rules written in plain English — because parents deserve to understand what their kid is competing in.
Kata
Forms & Technique
Solo performances of prearranged movement sequences. Judged on precision, power, focus, and spirit. Think of it as the martial arts equivalent of a gymnastics floor routine — every stance and strike tells a story.
- Timed 60–90 seconds
- Judged on form & kiai
- Open & traditional divisions
- Both feet must stay on mat
Sparring
Point Fighting
Controlled point-fighting where competitors score with clean, controlled strikes to legal target zones. Full protective gear required. Referees stop action after every scored point — safety is rule #1.
- Full gear required (helmet, chest, gloves)
- No contact to head below yellow belt
- 2-minute rounds, best of 3
- Weight classes strictly enforced
Weapons Forms
Bo, Nunchaku & More
Traditional weapons kata using foam-safe equipment for younger divisions. Bo staff, nunchaku, and kama forms showcase control and showmanship. Crowd favorite at every tournament.
- Foam/safe weapons under 12
- Scored same as empty-hand kata
- Creative & traditional divisions
- Drops result in point deduction
Real Kids, Real Moments
Every photo below is from an actual Dojo tournament. Belt levels and division results are real — no stock photos of "martial arts" here.
Beyond the Kicks & Punches
Conflict Resolution
Before any sparring match, competitors bow to each other and to the judges. After every match — win or lose — they bow again. Kids learn that respect is not conditional on outcome.
"After six months, his teacher told us he was the first to walk away from arguments. That's the mat teaching him, not us."
Goal-Setting
Belt advancement is the world's most tangible goal system. Each stripe and each color requires specific demonstrated skills — no participation awards, no shortcuts. Kids set, work toward, and achieve visible goals.
"She cried when she failed her first belt test. Then she practiced every day for six weeks and passed. I couldn't have scripted a better life lesson."
Respect Protocols
Every class begins and ends with a formal bow. Instructors are addressed by title. Opponents are thanked after every match. These aren't hollow rituals — they're practiced habits of dignity that transfer into school and home.
"My son started holding doors open for adults and saying "yes ma'am" without being prompted. His grandfather cried. I'm not exaggerating."
The Dojo Parent Guide
Not ready to register yet? Download the 12-page PDF covering safety protocols, scoring systems, what to pack on tournament day, and a complete belt advancement chart. Everything a first-time tournament family needs.
No email required · PDF · 12 pages
Find Your Next Tournament
All events are one-day tournaments. Bring your gi, your gear, and your loudest cheering voice.
Spring Invitational 2026
🌸Riverside Sports Complex
Metro Regional Championship
🏆Oak Park Athletic Center
Little Dragons Beginners Cup
🐉Elmhurst Community Center
Summer Showdown
☀️DuPage Sports Center