Black Sails BJJ Waiver and Release of Liability

Location:
9746 54 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T6E 0A9

1. Assumption of Risk

I, {FirstName} {LastName}, acknowledge and fully understand that participation in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and related activities at Black Sails BJJ involves inherent risks of physical injury, including but not limited to sprains, strains, contusions, broken bones, concussions, or more serious injuries, up to and including death. I voluntarily accept and assume all such risks, whether anticipated or unanticipated, even if arising from the negligence of others.

2. Waiver and Release

In consideration for being permitted to participate in classes, training, or events at Black Sails BJJ, I hereby release, waive, discharge, and agree to hold harmless Black Sails BJJ, its owners, instructors, employees, agents, volunteers, sponsors, promoters, operators, hosts, associations, schools, directors, officials, and all other participants (collectively, "Releasees") from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, or causes of action whatsoever arising out of or related to any loss, damage, or injury, including death, that may be sustained by me or to any property belonging to me, whether caused by the negligence of the Releasees or otherwise, while participating in any activity or while in, on, or around the premises or traveling to or from any event.

3. Health and Fitness Acknowledgment

I certify that I am in good physical condition and have no known medical conditions or disabilities that may prevent or limit my participation in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or related activities. I agree to inform Black Sails BJJ of any medical conditions or injuries that may affect my participation. I further agree that I am not under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any intoxicating substances while participating.

4. Compliance with Rules

I agree to follow all instructions given by instructors and staff, and to comply with all posted safety rules and regulations. I understand that failure to do so may result in my removal from participation without refund.

5. Media Release

I grant Black Sails BJJ permission to take and use photographs, audio, or video recordings of me during training, classes, or events for promotional, educational, or commercial purposes, in any media now known or hereafter developed, without compensation or further consent.

6. COVID-19 and Infectious Disease Acknowledgment

I understand that participation in group activities may increase the risk of exposure to COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. I agree to comply with all health and safety protocols required by Black Sails BJJ and local authorities.

7. Minors

If the participant is under 18 years of age, this waiver must be signed by a parent or legal guardian, who agrees to be bound by its terms and conditions.

Black Sails BJJ Gym Etiquette & Rules

At Black Sails BJJ, we are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for all members. Please review and follow these rules to help maintain our community standards.

General Etiquette

• Respect: Treat everyone with respect—teammates, instructors, and visitors.

• Learning Over Winning: Focus on learning, not “winning.” Injuries hinder progress for everyone.

• Punctuality: Arrive early enough to change and be ready for class. If you are late, notify the instructor and wait for permission to join.

• Mat & Footwear: Bare feet only on the mats. Wear shower shoes, sandals, or flip-flops off the mats.

• Personal Hygiene:

  • Arrive clean and in freshly washed gear (gi, belt, and undergarments).

  • No strong perfumes or scents.

  • Keep fingernails and toenails trimmed.

  • No holes or rips in your gi.

  • Instructors may send students home for poor hygiene.

• Jewelry & Piercings: Remove all jewelry and piercings before training. If something cannot be removed, inform the instructor.

• No Bragging: Nobody cares who you tapped or who tapped you. Focus on your own improvement.

• Stay Home if Sick: Do not attend class if you are unwell or have a contagious condition.

• Mouthguards: Strongly encouraged during rolling.

• Safe Space: Help keep the mats a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

• Banter & Bullying: Friendly banter is welcome if everyone is comfortable, but bullying is never tolerated.

• Technique Over Strength: Use technique, not brute strength. If you don’t know an escape, ask for help—wild flailing is not acceptable.

• Size Awareness: Be mindful of your size and strength, especially when rolling with smaller or lower-belt students. Focus on learning, not overpowering.

• Injuries: Report any injuries to the instructor immediately.

• Rolling: Anyone can refuse to roll. However, consistently sitting out may hinder your progress. Learning to manage energy and protect yourself when tired is part of your growth.

Submissions & Safety

• Banned Techniques (All Levels):
  No striking, slamming, hair pulling, eye gouging, or small joint manipulation (fingers/toes).

• Jumping Techniques:
  Jumping guard, scissor sweeps, flying submissions, etc., may only be drilled when specifically taught or for competition practice with partner consent—not during open mat.

• Tapping:
  Tap early, tap often. Always respect your partner’s tap immediately.

Gi & No-Gi Rules