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When we came to Crossroads, we were looking for a safe place for our son to learn Brazilian Jíu Jitsu. We found that and so much more! Dustin and his coaching team are attentive and serious about teaching. The children learn Jiu Jitsu, respect and focusing in an environment that is fun and welcoming!
Great experience for my 7-year-old. He's not only learning bjj technique and skill, but focus, discipline and respect. Dustin and the other coaches at Crossroads BJJ are patient and great with kids. I highly recommend Crossroads BJJ!
My son has been a member of Crossroads BJJ for over a year now. It is one of the highlights of my son’s week. (He voluntarily gives up screen time to go to class, twice a week.) Coach Dustin is wonderful with kids. This is one of the few places that literally trains kids to be more patient and trains them to block out external distractions in order to focus on their own body and own actions.
Starting my son in the kids program at Crossroads BJJ, might be one of the best decisions I made in recent memory.
I am looking forward to an opportunity to join one of the adult classes when my schedule allows.
I highly recommend Crossroads BJJ!!
The kids program here at Crossroads BJJ is absolutely amazing!! The coaches here have the most patience and dedication towards all their students no matter the kids skill level! I highly recommend this gym!
Training at Crossroads has been a fantastic experience for my son and I to learn jiu jitsu and for me to level up my game.
Crossroads BJJ has quality and it shows. Dustin is awesome, not only with adults but with the children too. My son is 4 yrs old and loves the program, as safety is the most valued the kids learn fundamentals, and get a great workout. My son has really developed from this as I myself have over the years of practicing BJJ. I have visited a lot of gyms in area but so far nothing else can really compare, especially with safety and competition. This gym has lots of talent coming thru these doors, with seminars, and public in general. You can't get a better workout period unless you train. Convenient Schedule of 7 days a week, great beginner class that progresses you to the advanced class. If you like a fulfilling workout, dripping sweat, and sheer enlightenment than come on over.
100% recommend the kids program. All of the coaches are amazing with the kids.
My son is 8 he loves this class, Dustin is very professional and does great work with kids.
Caring and patient instructors. Wonderful place to bring my son
All four of my children love it. Top notch instruction, warm and welcoming staff.
Crossroads BJJ is a great place to learn and train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Dustin is an amazing instructor, that can really prove you how a small guy can defeat a bigger opponent with the use of great technique, I have learned so much from him and I recommend it to my best friends and family.
I love this place! It’s really a fun place and every person I’ve met there is super nice. Highly recommend! Go try it. BJJ is a blast and this is a super place to learn it.
This is a fantastic gym to learn Brazilian Jiu-jitsu in the New London, Connecticut area! Dustin and all the students are very warm and welcoming to new faces. I started in February and already feel like I've learned so much about this style of martial art. There are a few female students, but even in classes where I'm the only woman the culture is very respectful and never feels uncomfortable. It's a great environment for anyone of any level to learn and grow!
My first day and I am VERY impressed. The instruction I received was very thorough and easy to follow. You can just tell that the instructors here care immensely about what they are teaching. I highly recommend Crossroads BJJ and can’t wait for my next lesson.
Crossroads BJJ has a great, encouraging, intelligent instructor and high level, smart, athletes. The facility is a great space, and if your a woman, and want to try BJJ, they have there own separate changing rooms, and a class for only women, once a week, and white belt classes twice a week. And high level competition classes and intermediate classes. So there is something for everyone, so come and have a great experience
Excellent
Crossroads is definitely the best place in the area for BJJ. I had been training for some time prior to moving to the area and came in after checking out the other gyms around, and Crossroads is the way to go by far. Dustin (the owner/BJJ black belt with decades of martial arts experience) is an incredibly talented grappler and does an awesome job instructing technique while still fostering a positive environment for all ability levels. He teaches practically all adult classes himself, which is not too common in other BJJ schools.
Highly recommended as the BJJ go-to for those in New London and surrounding towns!
Should have a 6th star for this place
I have been training with Dustin at Crossroads for over 2 years and cannot recommend it enough. There is a great atmosphere in the gym and the other students are very welcoming. Dustin's approach to teaching techniques reinforced with sparring has worked really well for me. I always look forward to class.
Best place to train Jiu-Jitsu in the area! Great instruction, great training, super friendly vibe.
As a military member I have had the blessing of training at many BJJ gyms. Please believe me when I say that Crossroads is in a league of their own!! They have the best atmosphere for any beginner to expert in grappling and self-defense. As I said before I'm in the military so I had to move again and causing me to leave Crossroads, but Dustin is such an amazing coach, leader, and person that he continues to reach out to me with Jiu-jitsu material and advice to help me grow in the art. His three purple belt coaches are also top notch grapplers that are always willing to help anyone.
I can't say enough about Crossroads. It is a great learning environment with great instructors and students. I've been a student for 2+ years. Prior to joining I had become bored with traditional gyms. Certainly they work for many but I would lose interest quickly. Every day here is new and different. I would recommend Crossroads to anyone looking for a place to learn, stay fit and challenge themselves every time they walk through the door.
I found a true gem in Crossroads Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. While conventional gyms were never my thing, I was looking a BJJ school to help stay in shape and have fun learning at the same time. Dustin Rhodes is a tremendous instructor and is passionate about teaching the art. I remain dedicated to my journey consistently and have met so many great people along the way. If your in Southeastern CT and want to share in some of these great benefits, I highly recommend giving Crossroads BJJ a try.
Dustin is very technical in technique and has a fluid and congruent way of instructing. There is a reason for everything you do which Dustin knows and can show and demonstrate why. If your goal is to become skilled in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, you need to check out Crossroads BJJ. I came to Crossroads BJJ looking for quality martial art instruction after being disillusioned by various "dojos". I can say I have not been disappointed! The class is friendly and has an environment well suited to learning. What I have learned here is indispensable.
Always a good training session here each time I’m in town. Dustin is Top notch.
After wanting to learn this amazing martial art for 25 years, I've finally taken the first few steps on the journey, and I couldn't hope for a better place to do it. Crossroads BJJ offers professional instruction in a large, clean environment. The atmosphere is laid back and friendly, but make no mistake, the students here are putting in work. There are men and women of various ages and ranks training at Crossroads, which means there is no shortage of capable partners to roll with and learn from. I'd encourage anyone interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to give this place a serious look.
Crazy supportive environment. Make great friends and learn priceless life lessons. Best decision you can make for joining a gym.
5 Stars
I have been practicing martial arts for years. Crossroads is a great place to learn BJJ. Dustin is an excellent instructor who has been practicing the sport for a long time. He has great attention to detail while showing technical moves. I highly recommend this school.
If you live in Eastern CT, or anywhere in CT for that matter, and want to train Jiu-Jitsu, you MUST checkout Crossroads BJJ. Awesome atmosphere, incredible people, and outstanding instruction! I would highly recommend Crossroads for everyone!
Excellent atmosphere. I’ve trained at other gyms and can say with confidence that Crossroads is the most enjoyable experience I’ve had. Friendly people and knowledgeable instructors.
I've been training at Crossroads Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for just shy of two years. Dustin Rhodes, the black belt instructor, is a master practitioner and an experienced teacher. When I was looking for an excellent bjj school in SE Connecticut, I did plenty of research on different schools, and this one was head and shoulders above the rest of the schools in Groton, New London, and the whole SE CT region. The school's philosophy rests solidly in the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu lineage (some might insist on calling it 'Machado Jiu-Jitsu' based on Dustin's lineage; there's plenty of overlap between the Gracie and Machado families as any knowledgeable student would know). Point is, this is a school that promotes the REAL martial art, with a lineage directly connected to BJJ's earliest practitioners. The single best testament to Dustin's success as a teacher is the community of grapplers he has brought together and inspired to continue training. There are some very, very knowledgeable students at this school, and a BJJ school is in many ways only as good as the community that results from it. Crossroads has an excellent community that gives sustained opportunities to grow for the advanced grappler, and a positive and patient learning environment for the absolute beginner. The price for membership is a great value for the knowledge offered, and is right in line with similar schools. Dustin also offers private lessons at very good prices, and Dustin regularly hosts seminars with excellent teachers, including Carlos Machado. Whether you are a total beginner to bjj, grappling, or martial arts, or a seasoned practitioner with years of experience, there is tremendous value in joining Crossroads.
Great school. Great people. I have attended two seminars now and have always had a great experience!
I would highly recommend Crossroads Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to anyone who is interested in learning a new martial arts style, continuing their previous experience, or just looking for a hardcore workout. The class layout is outstanding. Starting with an excellent instruction period, and an hour to spar and learn techniques hands-on. If you desire even more training, our instructor Dustin stays extra time each class to work on questions and problems his students might have. His instructing is top of the line, and if you are looking to compete, or just to get a great workout in this safe environment, Cross Roads BJJ is more than what meets your expectations for those of all experiences.
I can't say enough good things about this Brazilian jiu-jitsu school. Dustin is an outstanding teacher--he cares deeply about his students and brings out the best in us. Dustin excels at explaining complex moves in a way that's easy to understand, and he's always open to answering questions. The school has a casual, relaxed atmosphere, and everyone feels welcome--as one of the female students, this is especially important to me. If you've never tried BJJ, I highly recommend this school as the place to start. If you're currently training, this school will push you to the next level.
Crossroads Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a superb BJJ school. I highly recommend it for anyone in or near Southeastern Connecticut.
I am by no means an expert practitioner, but I have trained off-and-on for a few years while moving around from place to place (Active Duty Military). As a result, I have practiced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at 7 or 8 gyms all over the country. I have seen some great gyms (and some not so great ones), but Crossroads BJJ is by far the best I've seen. I'm so pleased to have given it a try.
From the moment I walked in the door I was welcomed with respect and enthusiasm (which continues today) from the owner (Dustin Rhodes) and the other members/students. It was immediately clear that this is a respectful, well-maintained, facility with an incredible culture of learning intently, practicing the details, and training hard- with an incredible work ethic and spirit of inclusion.
Dustin has developed a system that allows beginners and recreational attendees to train with and learn from much more experienced competitors that train at CR BJJ. I cannot emphasize enough how impressed I am with this gym. This place is a gem in a great location in Waterford, CT.
If your looking to find a safe place to take a risk and try something new, get in better shape, learn some self defense, or just hone your BJJ skills for competitions, this is the place for you.
Crossroads Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has changed my life for the better in many ways and I cannot recommend it more highly than I do. Not only did I receive expert technical training in jiu jitsu from m a well qualified black belt instructor, but I also learned skills that I take with me into every day life. Skills like determination, self control, and dedication. I stopped smoking last year and I credit the training I received at crossroads for making me realize that if I put my mind to it I can accomplish anything as long as I stay determined and dedicated. Dustin Rhodes is a top notch instructor and if you choose to train at crossroads you won't be disappointed at the improvements you make both on the mats and off!
I visited the area from out of town and was looking for a place to train. This place was amazing. They have a very friendly staff and group of people who were great to train with. I highly recommend crossroads if your looking for a bjj school.
I can't recommend this place enough. I moved from Long Island to CT and trust me when I say, It wasn't easy for me to just walk into just any gym. I knew I had to find the right fit, the right instructor, and the right group of people on top of it. I've been training here for at least a year now and Crossroads has been nothing short of amazing for me. Dustin and everyone in this gym made it super easy for me to find that "New Home". If you are looking for that safe space with "No politics", just roll and have fun type of atmosphere.... this is it!
Great gym with lots of tough rolls. Instructors genuinely want to see you improve.
Dustin is an excellent instructor and the gym is extremely welcoming and spacious. My visit was so fun and I will be back whenever I can!
Very very strong grapplers. Dustin is an awesome instructor. Helped my game out immensely. Can’t recommend enough if you are in the area.
Crossroads is an outstanding establishment. The training and concepts taught are top notch. Very friendly environment ranging from the instructor Dustin Rhodes to other students. The gym also has a multitude of seminars throughout the year taught by top jiujutsu practitioners. I myself trained here for about 4 years before I moved. It's rare to find a place to train of this caliber and I have trained in many gyms across the United States. 5 of 5 stars.
Great instructors, great training environment! Safe, fun and most important, they train hard. Dustin Rhodes is a great Jiu Jitsu black belt!
I travel periodically for work and I've been fortunate enough find quality BJJ and people always welcoming and willing to share technique with me. Dustin Rhodes at Crossroad BJJ is among the best. He is extreme when it comes to technical details but yet articulates those details and concepts in a very simple way. He is sure to benefit a beginner as well as someone like myself that has been training for many years.
I’ve trained here several times while traveling the area. It’s a really great place! The people are friendly and welcoming, the place is nice, and Dustin is a first class instructor. All in all just a really great place!
I just resumed my training here. It’s a great crew with great instruction.
Awesome place, great people!
A group of wonderful people who love the art of Jiu-Jitsu. They work hard to teach you what they know and they push you to be and do your very best! So grateful to be a part of the Crossroads family even though my husband and I had to relocate.
Crossroads BJJ provides a great learning atmosphere for any skill level, while also testing your body and spirit. I started at Crossroads knowing nothing about BJJ, but with Dustin's instruction I've improved significantly, and continue to get better each class. Hard work definitely pays off, and you will be pushed to your limits while increasing your skill sets at Cross Roads BJJ.
I took my first ever lesson while on vacation visiting my friend. Dustin the owner is extremely friendly.
While I can't speak to his knowledge as I don't have any, what I can say is that I immediately clicked with his mechanically oriented style of teaching and he won't hesitate to correct your mistakes.
He has a very positive attitude and is genuine. I did both a private lesson with my friend and a beginner lesson with a small group. The atmosphere was very inclusive and social.
If you are looking for great exercise, self-defense, and/or a good social group check out his studio.
True east coast Bjj school. Great crew of people who love to roll. I’ve been to schools from Alaska to Maine and can’t recommend this one enough. If you’re anywhere close you need to stop in.
I have been training with Crossroads since last summer and I cannot think of a single negative.
Dustin and the other coaches are always available and do care about the students progression. No detail or secret is kept.
Everyone is friendly and willing to help, the atmosphere is energetic and family like.
I highly recommend everyone that is in the area to give Crossroads BJJ a shot.
Of all the things I loved and now miss most about Connecticut, Crossroads is the number one. Since moving away and having to search for a new gym, I have reached the conclusion that’s there is definitely no place quite like Crossroads. Dustin set the bar for instruction, people, and general gym environment really high for me, and it has yet to be matched. Crossroads is still my favorite place to train.
This is a place filled with amazing people. Everyone is so willing to help each other improve, cheer each other on, and generally making rolling an absolute blast! I miss the camaraderie there the most.
Dustin is an incredible instructor who keeps the gym environment laid back and fun, but still competitive and challenging. He gets to know everyone, and provides great support. Whether you are just starting, or experienced, there to compete or just to have fun- Dustin just makes it so easy to get out on the mat, train, and improve your game.
I could go on about how awesome Crossroads is, but you should really just go try out a class and see for yourself!
Great place for beginners and the experienced alike. Lots of classes offered seven days a week, lots of instructors that are friendly, patient and most importantly, knowledgable. Highly recommend Crossroads for anyone even casually thinking of learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, self-defense or just getting fit.
Crossroads BJJ is THE place to train in southeastern CT! Dustin gives top notch instruction and creates a safe and fun place to learn BJJ or Muay Thai. There are loads of great belts of all colors to learn with and classes every day of the week at a variety of times. A great place to learn.
Stopped in for a visit and was welcomed warmly. Great vibe, clean facility, and great instruction. I hope to drop in again soon!
I recently started training bjj in New London Connecticut at Crossroads Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Crossroads is everything I could have hoped for in a training school. There is a "fundamental" class that meets four times a week that is a perfect introduction to the sport/martial art for a beginner such as myself. The instructors are excellent, the facility is clean, and the curriculum is designed to be safe, fun, and informative. Classes start on time and end on time. Not a second is wasted during a Crossroads training session. My only wish is that I had started this years ago.
Crossroads BJJ is the best martial arts and grappling school I've ever trained at, and I've trained at many over the last 20 years. Dustin is a great instructor and motivator with a ton of BJJ and self-defense knowledge that he breaks down in a technical manner to make digestible for students of all levels. The atmosphere is very welcoming for new students and it doesn't take long to become part of the crossroads clan! If you want to get in the best shape of your life, while learning how to protect it, look no further than Crossroads BJJ.
I've been living in Connecticut for over 20 years, spending most of my time working behind a desk. I didn't have much experience in being physically active, until I walked into Crossroads BJJ. I discovered the gym through a Google search for local Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu schools. Crossroads was the one that stood out the most for the Waterford, New London, and Groton area. After messaging the school through their Facebook page, I spoke with the head instructor Dustin Rhodes, he was able to answer all of my questions about the school and understood that I had 0 experience. The following day I showed up for the beginners class and started learning from 3 of the most advanced students. It has been a little over 2 years now since I began my jiu-jitsu journey through Crossroads. I have learned the very best techniques in all forms of jiu-jitsu, including Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. The amount you will learn by attending as well as the fun you will have training makes me wish I had started here earlier. If you are an experienced practitioner or someone like me who had no experience, this school will develop you. Everyone at Crossroads will help you achieve your goals. I have yet to find someone there who hasn't.
Traveled from out of town. Felt very welcome and the talent was amazing. Can't wait to go back.
I stopped in a few times to train while visiting CT, and am very glad I did!
Great instruction in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Dustin has a great thing going at Crossroads BJJ!
An awesome school, awesome instructor, and awesome people. Not really much else to say. If you're thinking about it, stop thinking about it and show up.
When we came to Crossroads, we were looking for a safe place for our son to learn Brazilian Jíu Jitsu. We found that and so much more! Dustin and his coaching team are attentive and serious about teaching. The children learn Jiu Jitsu, respect and focusing in an environment that is fun and welcoming!
Great experience for my 7-year-old. He's not only learning bjj technique and skill, but focus, discipline and respect. Dustin and the other coaches at Crossroads BJJ are patient and great with kids. I highly recommend Crossroads BJJ!
My son has been a member of Crossroads BJJ for over a year now. It is one of the highlights of my son’s week. (He voluntarily gives up screen time to go to class, twice a week.) Coach Dustin is wonderful with kids. This is one of the few places that literally trains kids to be more patient and trains them to block out external distractions in order to focus on their own body and own actions.
Starting my son in the kids program at Crossroads BJJ, might be one of the best decisions I made in recent memory.
I am looking forward to an opportunity to join one of the adult classes when my schedule allows.
I highly recommend Crossroads BJJ!!
The kids program here at Crossroads BJJ is absolutely amazing!! The coaches here have the most patience and dedication towards all their students no matter the kids skill level! I highly recommend this gym!
Training at Crossroads has been a fantastic experience for my son and I to learn jiu jitsu and for me to level up my game.
Crossroads BJJ has quality and it shows. Dustin is awesome, not only with adults but with the children too. My son is 4 yrs old and loves the program, as safety is the most valued the kids learn fundamentals, and get a great workout. My son has really developed from this as I myself have over the years of practicing BJJ. I have visited a lot of gyms in area but so far nothing else can really compare, especially with safety and competition. This gym has lots of talent coming thru these doors, with seminars, and public in general. You can't get a better workout period unless you train. Convenient Schedule of 7 days a week, great beginner class that progresses you to the advanced class. If you like a fulfilling workout, dripping sweat, and sheer enlightenment than come on over.
100% recommend the kids program. All of the coaches are amazing with the kids.
My son is 8 he loves this class, Dustin is very professional and does great work with kids.
Caring and patient instructors. Wonderful place to bring my son!
Great instructor and students I highly recommended this school.
Had a great time with the folks at crossroads BJJ gym. I'm a visitor from out of town and the welcomed me in. No attitudes nothing but friendly folks! Their professor Dustin Rhodes is very knowledgeable and inviting. I got a chance to roll with him and even though he could shut me down with every move you was light and respectful of my abilities. This is reflected in his students. Not one meathead in the bunch �. Any way, top notch. Thanks for letting me train with you all!
Cool men and women that enjoy learning and helping one another get better. Quality of instruction is very good, and it’s obvious that a lot of care is put into the development of the trainees. Nothing is free so you’ll have to put in the time on the mats to progress. Be prepared to discover the many stages of white belt. Great exercise and a lot of fun learning a useable skill that not many people out there know.
Instructor is wonderful with kids. Very patient and has them engaged throughout the whole class time.
Crossroads BJJ is an excellent place for anyone with zero experience to more advanced. The classes are thought by people who are willing to help you out throughout the learning process and understand the importance of the basics in other to develop cohesive and fundamental grappling skills. Also, the classes vary from a larger group to more intimate sessions. So, there is really nothing to be afraid of; Crossroads BJJ in CT has you covered.
Dustin’s instruction is high level and detailed, everyone is extremely welcoming, and the gym is beautiful. It was an excellent visit and I definitely recommend Crossroads!
All four of my children love it. Top notch instruction, warm and welcoming staff.
Tonight during team training we went right into rolling! Today we left the timer on and had untimed rolling forcing everybody to go for the submission! Great Class and everybody definitely got a workout! Dustin Rhodes Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt Head Instructor at Crossroads Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 316 Boston Post Road Waterford, CT [email protected] www.CrossroadsBJJ.com Kano […]
Today during our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class two ways to escape the mount position. The Mount position is one of the most powerful ways to control an attacker in a self defense situation because of the number of BJJ style submissions that are available as well as the number of ways to completely neutralize your attacker […]
BJJ is a contact sport! You are in close proximity to the people you train with, so being clean is supremely important. Dirty gis and dirtier people spread bacteria and other nasty infections, so it really is a health issue. We don’t really have this problem at Crossroads bjj but it’s still important to go […]
Is there a better endorsement as a teacher of the martial arts, than to have Chuck Norris as a student? If there is, I can’t think of one. Now imagine the very same teacher wants to teach you (yes, I’m talking to you reader) the same things he’s taught Mr. Spinning Roundhouse! Not possible you […]
If you’re new to Brazilian jiu-jitsu, you may be wondering how you can improve your game. Well the long and short of it is that you’re only going to get better by consistently going to class and consistently sparring. However, there are certain things that you can do to make it easier for your body […]
When the voice of experience speaks, it’s usually a good idea to listen. When that voice is talking about jiu-jitsu and has an undefeated professional MMA career as backup evidence, you pay close attention to what it’s saying, because it works! On Saturday, December 5th, Crossroads BJJ was proud to host one such distinguished voice, […]
It’s promotion season at Crossroads, and James is the latest to pass his test and reach the rank of purple belt! James was a strong folkstyle wrestler when he got to Crossroads three years ago and has grown into a formidable, multi-faceted grappler in his time training here. Known for his excellent cardio, fitness, and […]
The last 2 weeks have been busy ones at Crossroads BJJ! The hours of training put in on the mats has collectively raised the caliber of jiu-jitsu being practiced by everyone, and nowhere is that more evident than with Nils and Mike, two longtime students of martial arts, who both achieved new belt ranks- blue […]
The following is an entry made by Jeremy, one of Crossroads’ dedicated students, to help other students know what to expect when it comes time to test themselves for the first time in a grappling tournament. Enjoy! Tournament Time Over the summer I competed in 3 different BJJ tournaments. I lost my first and went […]
Congratulations to all the members of the Crossroads Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition Team who traveled from Waterford CT up to Manchester, Ct to compete at the New England Submission only Challenge. The team was able to bring home several medals and we are very proud of everybody who stepped on the mat and took the opportunity […]
Congratulations to Bryan for his Double Gold Performance at NAGA last month! Bryan has been working hard on his Jiu Jitsu at Crossroads In New London County and on his Wrestling in Groton for Fitch High School! Hard work pays off! Congratulations Bryan!
The first Local tournament of 2015 is coming up fast! The North American Grappling Association will be hosting the New England Championship January 31st, 2015 in Milford Connecticut. This is a great chance for you to get in some competition experience and start the year off with a gold medal around your neck! To help […]
This past weekend several Crossroads Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu students traveled to Manchester, Connecticut to compete at the New England Submission Only Challenge. With a Total of 3 competitors Crossroads was able to bring 3 Medals home to Waterford, two Golds and one Bronze. Long Time student Tyrae was able to take home gold medals in both […]