Boy finishes jiu-jitsu match—what he does next leaves even the referee in awe

Yahoo

17 hours ago

In competitive sports, the focus is usually on victory—the handshake, the medal, the celebration. In one viral TikTok posted by Edgar Alcala (@3dgaralcala), the most unforgettable part came after the match was over.
A young boy had just finished his jiu-jitsu round. The referee raised his hand in victory, but instead of basking in the spotlight, his eyes darted toward the lineup of kids. One competitor was standing off to the side, left out of the group huddle. Without hesitation, the boy reached out his hand, beckoning the last child to join them.
It was a small gesture that spoke volumes. Even the referee paused, visibly moved, as the boy made sure no one was excluded. The video has racked up over 12.3 million views in just two days, sparking conversations about empathy, sportsmanship, and the quiet ways kids lead by example.
Related: True sportsmanship—character that goes beyond the game
Why this is more than a sports highlight
This scene shows how kids can absorb empathy and inclusion when they see it modeled in everyday life.
Acts like this grow from countless small lessons—how to treat others, what to do when someone is left out, and why kindness matters. In that moment, the boy's focus was on making sure everyone felt part of the celebration.
Sportsmanship starts long before the match
Parents often hope sports will teach their children values like teamwork, discipline, and respect. Moments like this prove sportsmanship is rooted in connection.
When kids learn to spot who's on the sidelines and invite them in, they're practicing skills that carry into every part of life: building empathy, strengthening friendships, and learning how to navigate social situations with kindness.
Teaching kids to handle victory and inclusion with grace
Gestures like this often come from what kids see and experience every day. Psychiatrist Dr. Leesha M. Ellis-Cox, who works with children and teens, says sportsmanship is learned. Kids notice how we respond to wins, losses, and the people around us.
Parents can show what that looks like—congratulating others, respecting officials, and recognizing effort as much as results. Dr. Leesha suggests celebrating a win while also teaching humility by thanking teammates and coaches and making space for others in the moment.
Supporting kids after a tough game, setting clear boundaries around unkind behavior, and creating chances to acknowledge others can shape a healthy attitude toward competition. These habits help kids step into games, school, and friendships with confidence and empathy.
Related: How to help your child win–and lose–graciously
What people are saying
The TikTok's comments section has turned into a standing ovation for the boy, and for the values he's already showing at such a young age:
@benulus: 'no cause that WHY he's No.1.'
@emmaelger: 'The finger reaching to the last kid so everyone is included.'
@Tl____12: 'Champ, well done mum and dad.'
@eina598: 'Ok but who raised this baby.'
Related: This viral Little League moment is a brilliant display of empathy and healthy masculinity
Raising kids who lead with empathy
When children grow up in spaces where inclusion is the norm, they carry that mindset into every interaction—on the mat, in the classroom, and beyond.
Small, unprompted acts of kindness like this are proof that the values children absorb today shape the way they'll treat others tomorrow. And that's a win worth celebrating.