Quintet-Style Jiu Jitsu. Navigating The Business, Rules, Risks, and Insurance of these competitions.

Quintet-style "Team-Based" Jiu Jitsu competitions have been gaining popularity in recent years, catching the attention of martial arts enthusiasts. This article serves as a friendly guide to help you grasp the ins and outs of these events. We'll take a closer look at the buzz within the community, pointing out the good and not-so-good sides. Moreover, we'll highlight the importance of being aware of potential injuries and exploring the essential rules involved. Whether you're considering organizing one of these events or participating as a fighter, we'll explain how insurance can be a valuable safety net. We'll also touch on options for athletes looking to ease the financial burden of medical bills in case of an injury. As we embark on this journey, remember that this article can serve as a general outline of awareness, particularly important for promoters who need a risk management plan to host these exciting competitions.

How do Quintet Winner-Stays-On Bjj events work?

In the captivating realm of Quintet, the essence revolves around endurance and the mastery of submission, all with the ultimate objective of outlasting rival teams. This format exhibits remarkable flexibility, seamlessly adapting to a myriad of scenarios. For example, it's quite common to witness Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) gyms organizing their teams and hosting local events, often extending invitations to three neighboring gyms. Typically, each of these teams consists of five participants, all converging for intense submission grappling showdowns.

It's worth noting that these teams are usually composed of five competitors who collectively adhere to a weight limit of 430kg, roughly 950 pounds. However, teams retain the freedom to structure their rosters as they see fit, provided they remain beneath this specified 430kg threshold as a cohesive unit.

The rules governing these captivating Quintet-style Jiu Jitsu competitions are, in essence, straightforward. Here, one representative from each team steps onto the mat, regardless of their size. Their primary objective? To secure a submission victory, granting them the opportunity to continue on the mat. This dynamic can set the stage for an awe-inspiring scenario where an exceptionally skilled grappler may embark on a mission to single-handedly dismantle the entire roster of opposing teams through a succession of submissions.

To shed more light on the competitive dynamics, the action initiates with a face-off between two fighters, each proudly carrying the banner of their respective teams. The victor of this initial battle proceeds to take on the next challenger from the opposing team. In the event of a match ending in a tie, both contenders momentarily step aside, making way for the next pair of fighters to step into the gripping arena.

It's worth emphasizing that this unique format extends beyond the boundaries of competition. Beyond the takedowns and submissions, it serves as a fantastic platform for building community and fostering camaraderie in the BJJ world. As one Redditor, @Kinghob, aptly noted, some benefits of this format is a great way to build community and camaraderie in the BJJ world. He mentioned a recent event called "Submission on the Shore," where individuals from different gyms, who already cross-train together, formed teams to engage in quintet-style battles. Here, "the focus wasn't on bruised egos but rather on coming together as squads and aiming to create memorable highlights in the spirit of friendly competition".

What are The individual Quintet match Rules ?

In a Quintet match, scoring points or gaining advantages is not a part of the game. The rules are pretty straightforward: there are just two ways to secure a victory and move on to the next match. A competitor can emerge victorious through either a submission, where they force their opponent to give up, or through disqualification, which occurs when their opponent uses an illegal move or accumulates three stalling penalties in a single match.

It's worth noting that Quintet differs from other major BJJ promotions like IBJJF or ADCC in its approach to stalling calls. In Quintet, referees are more lenient in making these calls. They may however flag an athlete for stalling from any position if they are not genuinely trying to advance the fight, making it a unique aspect of this competition.

Fighting out of a choke at a jiu jitsu event.

How Long Are Quintet BJJ Events?

Typically, individual matches in Quintet-style events consist of a single 8-minute round. Some reviewers, such as @GrapplingRewind on Reddit, have addressed the time expectations of this format, shedding light on its potential for extended durations. This format, even with a three-on-three setup, demands a minimum of 3 matches and can extend to as many as 5 matches within a single group. Moreover, the rules often lead to a significant number of draws, resulting in many matches going the full allotted time, making the events quite time-intensive.

While Quintet-style events undoubtedly offer excitement and intrigue for spectators, it's important to acknowledge the time-related concerns that accompany this format. The review accentuates that while the format has its merits, the outlined time-related issues persist as an integral part of the experience.

Are injuries higher for this style bjj events?

In the exploration of injury rates in Quintet-style events, it becomes evident that several factors may contribute to the possibility of elevated injury occurrences. One of the key elements in this dynamic is the variability in skill levels, experience, and weight differences among participants. The very nature of these team competitions, where fighters are under high-pressure scenarios to perform for their teams and enthusiastic audiences, could create an environment that raises the odds of injuries.

An illustrative example of this is the case of Cub Swanson facing Jake Shields in a Quintet Ultra event. During a semi-final match between team UFC and team WEC, the two fighters encountered a precarious situation when Jake Shields, despite being in a knee-reap position, executed a leg lock sweep that placed immense pressure on Swanson's knee. This specific maneuver, typically considered illegal in various grappling styles, resulted in an injury, with Cub Swanson revealing later that he suffered a torn ACL and meniscus. The examination of incidents in Quintet-style events underscores the increased susceptibility to injuries due to the distinctive dynamics and techniques involved, contributing to higher injury rates compared to traditional competitions. Recognizing this heightened risk, competitors in such events may find it prudent to explore supplemental injury insurance programs. These programs, with a nominal monthly cost of approximately $25, offer insurance coverage that directly compensates grapplers in cash when injuries occur, irrespective of their existing insurance coverage.

In light of the growing popularity of these supplemental insurance programs, competitors may be inclined to consider them as a proactive measure to mitigate the financial impact of injuries. Notably, these programs often extend their coverage to include organized competitions, such as Quintet-style events, providing an added layer of protection tailored to the unique risks associated with this specific style of competition. The allure of receiving direct cash benefits, independent of other insurance coverage, further enhances the appeal of these programs among grapplers seeking comprehensive and accessible financial protection in the event of injury. As the landscape of competitive grappling evolves, the adoption of such supplemental insurance programs reflects a pragmatic response to the distinctive challenges posed by Quintet-style events.

Quintet the Future of BJJ Events? Insights for Competitors and Organizers.

A reviewer, Mike_Re on Reddit, well-versed in Quintet-style events, shed light on several factors that event promoters might want to consider. First and foremost, they noted that team events like Quintet could introduce a unique layer of pressure, especially for hobbyist competitors who might grapple with the apprehension of letting down their club. While this concern may not always be entirely rational, it undeniably holds significance for certain individuals within the community.

Additionally, the reviewer posed a thought-provoking question regarding the event's viability, particularly from an organizer's standpoint. They pondered whether Quintet-style competitions should primarily aim to establish themselves as spectator sports, potentially necessitating substantial ticket sales for financial sustainability. An alternative approach could involve integrating Quintet with a traditional elimination competition. However, this path comes with its set of logistical challenges, such as determining the optimal timing for Quintet in relation to the main event, ensuring sustained audience engagement, and addressing the potential involvement of participants as coaches, all of which present unique hurdles for event organizers to navigate.

In the reviewer's perspective, the key to the success of this competition format lies in its potential for audience growth and the development of professional streaming capabilities. As the demand and viewership expand, larger organizations or local competitions seeking greater exposure might find Quintet-style events an appealing form of promotional content, possibly embracing them on platforms like YouTube. This forward-looking approach could pave the way for a more sustainable future for these events, offering event promoters a strategic avenue to explore.

Can I add Quintet style event coverage to my gym liability insurance policy?

Organizing Jiu Jitsu events, especially tournaments like the Quintet-style competitions, can be an exhilarating experience, but ensuring the safety and well-being of participants and protecting against potential liabilities is paramount. It's crucial to understand that your regular Jiu Jitsu gym insurance policy may not automatically extend coverage to your event. So, does your BJJ gym liability coverage cover an in-house event like this? The process involves requesting permission from underwriters, who may issue you an 'endorsement' to include the event under your existing policy. These Quintet-style event policies typically cost around $5 per participant, but the specific premium may vary based on location and activity risk.

What if I don't have a gym liability policy that can endorse this type of jiu jitsu event?

This is particularly relevant if you plan to host your event in alternate venues outside of an jiu jitsu gym. In such scenarios, most Jiu Jitsu school liability insurance programs typically don't encompass competitions or tournaments. Therefore, it becomes imperative to obtain a separate event policy tailored to BJJ events. In the case of offsite events, such as those held in a middle school gym, a bar, a community center, or an outdoor festival, a specialized BJJ event policy is a necessity. If you decide to go for an event-only policy, which operates independently from a school policy, it's essential to be aware that it often includes "minimum required premiums." These minimums typically hover around $100 for the accident plan and roughly $500 for the liability portion of the insurance.

To obtain comprehensive coverage, it's advisable to work with specialized insurance brokers like those at JiuJitsuInsurance.com. They can assist in submitting applications to underwriters for review, ensuring participant liability and accidental medical coverage.

We hope that this guide has provided you with some awareness surrounding some of the dynamics inherent in these growing Quintet style bjj events and emphasizing the importance of injury awareness. With the growing popularity of Quintet tournaments, it becomes crucial for competitors to prioritize personal protection by considering supplemental injury insurance before they compete. Simultaneously, event promoters are encouraged to prioritize comprehensive coverage, safeguarding not only the event but also their schools, brands, and reputations. If you find yourself in the role of a promoter gearing up to host such thrilling competitions, we recommend scheduling a call with our seasoned BJJ insurance agents. Our expertise can guide you to the necessary insurance policies, ensuring that your Quintet-style Jiu Jitsu competitions are well-prepared, and fully covered.

*If you're considering hosting events at your own Jiu Jitsu school, adding them as an endorsement to your school policy for a reasonable fee of approximately $5 per participant, with no minimum premiums, can be a strong incentive to review your current insurance policy through our brokerage. Comparing it with specialized insurance providers offering comprehensive coverage for these events at an affordable cost, alongside insuring your gym's day-to-day business operations, is a prudent step. Prioritizing participant safety and reducing liability risks is paramount when venturing into the realm of Jiu Jitsu competitions.

What kind of insurance do I need to host jiu jitsu events?

A few tips that you need to know when getting BJJ event insurance.

You have everything set for your first BJJ tournament. You figured out the ruleset, you know of a great venue that you can rent, there are participants ready to compete, you've created waivers for them to sign, and you are good to go! Still, you have one question in the back of your mind. Do I really need extra insurance for my event?

The answer is simple. Yes. You will need event-specific insurance which is usually purchased standalone for just a single event, or multiple events can be bundled over the course of a year and at a lower cost. That said, not all event insurance policies are going to cover everything you might need in that policy when you buy it online, so it is advised that you speak with an insurance broker before you add anything to the shopping cart online if you are not exactly sure. 

It’s important to understand that even though you may feel like your event will be covered under a personal insurance policy, a gym liability policy, or you might feel that the venue is already covered, the insurance coverage you have (or think you have) is probably not enough. 

To determine exactly what insurance you will need for your jiu jitsu competition you will want to have a general understanding about how event liability is typically purchased so that you know exactly what you are buying when it comes time to bind coverage. That said, we are confident that after reading the below summary we created you will be able to determine exactly what you will need insurance wise for your future jiu jitsu tournaments.

There are typically three parts to a event liability policy; 

1. Spectator liability coverage.

2. Participant liability coverage.

3. Participant medical / accidental injury or death coverage. 

Although when initially evaluating the three parts of available coverage it might seem simple to differentiate what each covers based on their descriptions, however when shopping for event liability coverage online you are not always guaranteed that all three parts of coverage will be included in the policy you end up buying. 

For example, we can get you a Martial Arts Tournament liability policy for your next bjj competition at eventhelper.com for about $269, but this coverage will only insure the 100 spectators at your event. This is called spectator only insurance meaning that if you are ok with not having insurance coverage for the participants at your event then this will be the lowest cost option to get in the door of a venue asking for liability insurance. Keep in mind having insurance coverage for the spectators only does leave you exposed to the cost of defending lawsuits from participants at your event or keep you off the hook for paying judgments for medical bills from participants. Regardless of whether or not the participants signed a waiver for your tournament general liability insurance will provide defense and pay judgments for covered insureds so it is necessary.

So how much coverage do you need to buy? 

If you host a BJJ tournament or grappling event at a nearby venue and pay a fee to the landlord to rent that space just the day, typically that landlord will require you to have a general liability insurance program for that single event. This type of single event insurance coverage however is not going to be included in your "Business Owners Policy" that you bought for your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy, instead it is something you will have to purchase separately.

The first thing you will want to do when planning your event is to ask the venue for the amount of insurance benefits they require. This is an important step to take before you buy an insurance policy online because all the venues and landlords will require different amounts of liability coverage, as well as could request specific contract endorsements they want included to modify the event coverage. For example, if you are hosting your event at a middle school that school district will most likely require that you not only purchase general-liability insurance for both the participants and spectators, but might also require additional amounts of coverage added like coverage for abuse or molestation that protects against alleged, actual, or attempted  abuse or molestation of any person by another person. 

Just ask. Before you promote your Jiu Jitsu event or tournament just ask the venue for their insurance requirements so that you know what is expected right out of the gates. Once you have those details then we can help you get insurance estimates and pricing for your bjj event coverage.  

What if the jiu jitsu event is in-house?

Alternatively, if you are hosting a jiu jitsu event or tournament in your own gym you most likely won't have anyone asking you to provide proof of insurance for that event, however that obviously does not mean you don't need to have single event insurance coverage for your in-house bjj competition. 

It's important that you do not assume that your school's general liability policy will provide coverage for this event. In the world of insurance every event is treated (underwritten) uniquely by the insurance company, and every insurance contract is worded differently when it comes to policy benefits, coverage, limitations, and exclusions.  So you just can't assume anything, you need to see it in writing. 

Start by checking to see what the wording in your current gym insurance policy has to say about in-house Jiu Jitsu competitions. Get a copy of your policy summary and the copy of your original bjj school master application to find out what it covers. Does it cover in-house scrimmages, exhibitions, or competitive events? If so, what does it cover, who is covered, and how much is covered? 

Once you determine that information then you can choose whether or not to purchase additional liability coverage to fill the gaps where the schools liability policy does not provide coverage for.  

What's next?

Does this insurance stuff seem complicated and time consuming? If you said YES then you are right, however that is why we are here to assist. If you send us a copy of your current insurance policy we can then explore the language in the contract for you to uncover exactly what you are covered for. After reviewing your insurance programs and requirements we can then see if your event will be covered, or not. After that, if you decide you need to add more coverage then we can recommend other insurance companies who might consider bundling your school coverage with event insurance coverage, or simply can help you purchase a single event policy if that is all you need for your next Brazilian jiu jitsu event.

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