This year, however, a special group had all the reasons to celebrate the day.

GMA member school JBM Academy hosted a graduation ceremony.

School leader Brian McPherson received the first degree to his black belt.

The ceremony had the presence of Master Renzo Gracie, professors Ricardo Almeida and Sergio Inacio.

Renzo and Almeida was also honored and Inacio took the opportunity to teach one of his favorite positions.

Photos: Luca Atalla

Check out the pictures.

For more info, go to jbmbjj.com.

Do you own a Jiu-Jitsu academy and want to have your school featured  on GRACIEMAG.com? It’s easy, all you need to do is to become a GMA member. Click here and find out how.