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August 11, 2022

New tournament formats

This year, organizations are creating some innovative competitive brackets including a wider community. Below are two recent developments for the Nanka Judo Fall Tournament, and 5th Annual “Fight for the Cure” All Women’s Charity Judo Tournament.

Nanka Judo Fall Tournament-11 September, Westminster High School, Westminster, CA

The Nanka Judo Fall Tournament will be held on Sunday 11 September. Like the Golden State Open held in May of this year. Nanka Judo will be using Smoothcomp.com for its registration, pooling, and scoring. You can only pre-register for this event. There will be no day of registration. Competitors must declare their weights at time of registration. However, on the day of competition, failure to make weight in your respective category will result in your immediate disqualification. This year, a new format available for Novice competitors where they fight for the entire period, regardless of the number of Ippons, Waza-Aris, Shidos given, unless it is a complete rout. More details on this as registration opens later this month.

5th Annual “Fight for the Cure” All Women’s Charity Judo Tournament-23 October, Norte Vista High School, Riverside, CA

For this year’s “Fight for the Cure” All Women’s Charity Judo Tournament, Riverside Youth Judo Club will be bringing back one of our most favorite divisions: Mom’s Judo! Here is a video on the Mom’s Judo adaptive rules. Anyone interested?

July 29, 2022

Nikkei Games Judo Tournament

Our next local tournament, the Nikkei Games, will be at Cerritos College in Norwalk, CA on Sunday 21 August. It is part of the Nisei Week celebration by the Japanese American community and its cultural legacy.

This event has a very different format as three different Budo arts are happening simultaneously in the same venue, Judo, Karate, and Kendo. The event opens with hosted exciting demonstrations of each discipline, following by tournaments for each sport going on at the same time.  If you have not seen Karate or Kendo before, you are in for a treat.

The Judo tournament format is on the attached flyer. More registration information to come in the following weeks.

July 29, 2022

Katame no Waza Training Session

The Pacific Southwest Judo Association will be hosting a one-day Katame no Waza training session led by Senseis Pamela Moye and Mary Wakabayashi, current National Champions in Katame no Kata.

Hosted by Art of Takedowns in Escondido, CA

Saturday August 20, 2022 – 10:00 a.m. to noon. – Osaekomi-waza

Saturday August 20, 2022 – 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM– Shime-waza and Kansetsu-waza 

Saturday August 20, 2022 – 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM attendee demonstrations

Event fee $20 for both sessions for each person.

RSVP by July 30, 2022

Scholarships available for PSJA members.

Art of Takedowns

125 W. Mission Ave., #204

Escondido, CA

Eligibility: These activities are open to all current members of United States Judo Federation, USA Judo, and United States Judo Association (Participants must show proof of Membership). Students 12 and over. Others will be admitted with the mutual agreement of the student’s instructor and the event organizer. This is a practical study session of effective mat work basics.

For additional information please contact Bruce Knight via email at ukemi7@outlook.com or Phone (619) 368-9812.

July 27, 2022

Promotions this week

Because of their performance two weeks ago at the Cal State Games Judo Championships in San Diego, we proudly presented our following members with new belt promotions last Friday.

Felipe Millan-Yellow

Maurice Chagar-Yellow

Felipe, 6-years-old, and Maurice, 7-years-old, have only been with us, eight and five months, respectively, consistently showing up for practice, slowly maturing, and listening at times. Their Yellow belts has given them motivation to better their Judo.

The Juniors were witness to one of their instructors being acknowledged. One of our newest Black Belt instructors, Yazmin Bojaca-Bott, was awarded her Nidan, 2nd degree Black Belt certificate. She assists with our Juniors’ class on Fridays and is a welcomed addition to our instructor and coaching staff. A Shodan originally from LA Tenri Judo Dojo, Yazmin now makes Sawtelle Judo home for her.

On Monday, we promoted long-time Junior member, Ian Zhang, to Green Belt. Ian started Judo in October 2018 as then a six-year-old with our Dojo and was one of the few who remained with us through our COVID/ZOOM days. Although he lives in Altadena and practices at San Gabriel Judo Club, he remains a loyal member of Sawtelle Judo, making it a point to practice one night a week with us.

In our Seniors’ class, Osugi Sensei promoted Miska Kajanus to Sankyu, 3rd rank Brown Belt, after his outstanding performance at the Cal State Games quickly finishing off his opponents with his left-handed Uchimata.

Again, congratulations to everyone for your well-deserved promotions.

July 25, 2022

Resources

Judo competition rules

-These rules change every Olympic cycle to enhance the sport.

Quick Guide to Judo

-presented by the Voice of International Judo Federation (IJF) color commentator and former World Champion, Neil Adams, Great Britain,

Quick Guide to Olympic Judo

IJF Judo Rules

-detailed breakdown of Judo rules

The Rules of Judo/Don’t Do This

-An entertaining look at what not to do at Judo tournaments

Judogi

How to wear your Judogi properly

How to tie your Judo belt-practice style

-Appearance is important. It’s your branding. Yes, Judo practice gets loud at times.

Rank promotion study guides

USJF Shodan Study Guide

-rank promotion testing requirements for 1st Degree Black Belt

USJF Ikkyu Study Guide

-rank promotion testing requirements for 1st Rank Brown Belt

USJF Nikyu Study Guide

-rank promotion testing requirements for 2nd Rank Brown Belt

USJF Sankyu Study Guide

-rank promotion testing requirements for 3rd Rank Brown Belt

USJF Yonkyu Study Guide

-rank promotion testing requirements for Green Belt

July 24, 2022

Hot summer nights

Hot summers

By George, his Shodan promotion

California State Games Judo Tournament

IJF International Tour

New tournaments on the calendar for next month

Kata practice

Juniors’ In-House Tournament

US Open

and more…

“Mens sana in corpore sano”

Latin for “Strong Mind, Strong Body

Maxims of Judo

Jita Kyoei 自他共榮

Mutual Welfare and Benefit

Seiryoku Zenyo 精力善用

Maximum efficient use of energy

 

Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo, said “the man who has failed and one who is at the peak of success are in the same position. Each must decide what he will do next, choose the course that will lead him to the future.”

“Winners embrace hard work. They love the discipline of it, the trade-off they’re making to win. Losers, on the other hand, see it as punishment. And that’s the difference.”

-Lou Holtz, famed Notre Dame college football coach-

Hot summers

It’s hot and humid today. Stay hydrated throughout the day to avoid cramping, feeling lightheaded/nausea or passing out during Judo practice, especially during hot weather. Clip your finger and toenails. Skin cuts or peeled nails are not necessary.

By George, his Shodan promotion

Last Friday night, many celebrated and witnessed a rare occasion in our Dojo. Osugi Sensei proudly presented George Ishii with his Black Belt, promoting George to Shodan, 1st degree Black Belt. Eight years in the making, all homegrown in the same Dojo, consistently coming to practice almost every night to lead the warmups. He now joins the ranks of the Yudansha, Black Belts, reaching a challenging and most coveted milestone, only to realize there is so much more to learn and practice.

Still nursing a broken toe from the Hollywood Scrimmage III back in May, George came in to accept his promotion. He will be back on the mat in August.

He is also a Sandan in Aikido at the Aikido Institute of America as a practitioner and instructor.
George exemplifies persistent, consistency, and grit. We look forward to seeing how George’s Judo journey unfolds.

Congratulations George!! We look forward to having you back on the mat soon.

California State Games Judo Tournament

Six of our members competed at yesterday’s tournament at Montgomery High School in San Diego.

Juniors

Jonas Akhavan, Boys 5-6 Bronze

Maurice Chagar, Boys 7-8 fought four matches

Felipe Millan Boys, 5-6 Silver

Brandon Monzon, Boys 5-6 Silver

Seniors

Miska Kajanus, Novice Male Gold

Sensei Michael Sarchet, Brown/Black fought two matches

Sensei Michael Sarchet, Masters Male) Silver

For the Juniors, with exception of Brandon, it was their first outside tournament. They showed poise and courage getting out there. They did their best and showed progress and promise. Little Felipe squirted out of some hold downs a few times and got back up. He does listen and he always asked, “how do you get out of that pin?” Maurice fought four times and got back out there each time doing his best. Jonas did his best as well. Brandon fought his long matches as best as he could getting up each time, not missing a heartbeat. It is a learning experience for all, one of many.

For our Seniors, Miska and Sensei Michael, both who have not competed in a while, were breaking off the rust and displaying their skill and athletic prowess. In the Novice Men’s heavyweight division, Miska faired very well doing away with his three opponents in short order with his left-handed Uchimata. The Green Belt, Miska, is now close to his Sankyu, Brown Belt, promotion after this performance. Sensei Michael took up the challenge in fighting in two division, which eventually ended fighting in two divisions on two different mats simultaneously. He ended up fighting four matches and taking home a Silver medal for his efforts.

We congratulate our members for their efforts to do their best. We thank their parents, relatives, and friends for their support. We also are grateful for the support to our coaches, Senseis Yazmin Bojaca-Bott, and Jerry Hazemoto, for supporting and taking care of our athletes.

New tournaments on the calendar for next month

Two tournaments have been announced for August.

Nikkei Games Judo Tournament-Sunday 21 August @ Cerritos College, Norwalk, CA

32nd Annual Bojuka Judo Tournament-Sunday 28 August @ Seaside High School Gymnasium, Seaside, CA

More details will follow in upcoming newsletters. Mark your calendars.

IJF International Tour

At the Zagreb Grand Prix this past weekend, 477 athletes representing 67 countries competed at this tournament vying for Olympic qualifying points for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Here is a rundown of the winners of each weight division.

Female

<48 kg.

Catarina Costa-Portugal

<52 kg.

Gefen Primo-Israel

<57 kg.

Nelson-Levy Timna-Israel

<63 kg.

Anriquelis Barrios-Venezuela

<70 kg.

Barbara Matic-Croatia

<78 kg.

Inbar Lanir-Israel

+78 kg.

Raz Hershko-Israel

Male

<60 kg.

Francisco Garrigos-Spain

<66 kg.

Denis Vieru-Moldavo

<73 kg.

Lasha Shavdatuashvili-Georgia

<81 kg.

Tato Grigalashvili-Georgia

<90 kg.

Mammadali Mehdiyev-Azerbaijan

<100 kg.

Jorge Fonseca-Portugal

+100 kg.

Jur Spijkers-Netherlands

You may watch this tournament on YouTube.

The next stop for the world’s elite Judokas is Tashkent, Uzbekistan for the Tashkent World Senior Championship 6-13 October 2022 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on 6-12 October followed by three more Grand Slams in Abu Dhabi, Baku, and Tokyo.

Kata practice

This month, Osugi Sensei will host another kata practice at Anaconda Academy in Gardena from 9:30 am-12:00 noon on Saturday 6 August. Bring your kata partner and work on your kata.

Nage no Kata

Katame no Kata

Ju no Kata

Kime no Kata

Goshin Jutsu

Itsutsu no Kata

Koshiki no Kata

Please note that these videos are dated and there are small changes to some these katas. To proper learn these katas, you will need to practice these movements with kata instruction and supervision correcting your movements, posture, execution with constant feedback and learning the subtleties that you will never be able to read in a book or see in a video. As in our Judo class, Osugi Sensei will be able to spot a correction from the other side of the mat.

Plan on attending Osugi Sensei’s Nage no Kata next month, especially for our Brown Belts.

There is also a Kata for Juniors created by the Kodokan recently called, “Kodomo no Kata,” (Children’s Form). This video shows a series of exercises that demonstrate basic techniques.

how to wear their Judogi

tie their belt

lining up their shoes/slippers

Ritsurei-standing bow

Zarei-sitting bow

Ukemi-breakfalls in multiple directions

Tai-Sabaki-body movement

Basic throwing techniques

“When the student is ready the teacher will appear. When the student is truly ready. The teacher will Disappear.” ― Tao Te Ching-

Juniors’ In-House Tournament

Although many are on holiday, we will still host our July Juniors’ In-House Tournament on Friday 29 July starting @ 6:00 pm.

US Open

Maurice Cruz-Morales, Nikyu (2nd rank Brown Belt), prepares for this national debut at the US Open in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, at the end of the month.

Old news and Reminders

Beach workout

We will have our next Beach workout on Sunday 31 July at Tower 24, south of the Santa Monica Beach.

Beach workouts are from 10:00 am-12:00 noon.

Beach workout dates

Sunday 31 July

Sunday 7 August

Sunday 14 August

Saturday 20 August

Sunday 28 August

Sunday 4 September

Saturday 11 September

Sunday 18 September

Saturday 24 September

Dates are subject to change if tournaments or other events are scheduled. Mark your calendars. We start at 10:00 am. Be on time.

The location

Lifeguard Tower 24 is located south of the Santa Monica Pier, off Ocean Ave. and Hollister Ave. Take Ocean Ave. to enter the parking lot at Hollister Ave. Hollister Ave. runs one-way east away from the beach. So, you can only enter the parking lot from Ocean Ave. As you enter the parking lot, park in the right-side lot, which is hourly parking, $1.00/hour, two-hour maximum. There are ticket machines on the far side of the lot. Remember your lot # and pay by cash or with credit card. The other side is daily parking, $16.00. There is a Perry’s Beach Cafe right in front of the parking entrance along the bike path and Tower 24 in the far distance. Google Map “Perry’s Cafe and Beach Rentals-2400” for the location.

If you’re up for a 15-minute walk down to the beach, another option is to park above Main St. in the residential area. I would park in the neighborhood around Bicknell Ave. around 3rd & 4th St. Parking is free.

This is a fun, high-intensity, gut-busting conditioning workout for all. By the end of summer, you will be glad that you did these workouts.

We meet at Tower 24 and begin our workout by warming up with a jog down the beach to the 

Santa Monica Pier and back. We will stretch and perform calisthenics. Then, we will do a series of wind sprints in the soft sand between the lifeguard towers, shortening the intervals and distance as we increase the number of repetitions. We will have everyone perform band uchikomi exercises. We finish the workout with games, team relays and/or tug o’ war.

Afterwards-Make a day out of it

You can make a day at the beach by bringing your swimwear and take a plunge in the cool Pacific waters after a heart racing workout or just take a quick cooling plunge before you leave.

Bring a volleyball, boogie board, umbrella, more sunscreen, picnic basket

Please let me know if you are interested in joining us. It is for all ages. There is no extra charge. It is just your time and energy.

If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know.

For Juniors (PARENTS please read)-USJF Academic Scholastic Awards (NEW)

With the school out for summer, the USJF (United States Judo Federation) promotes academic excellence by recognizing students at the elementary & grade school level who are excelling at their studies and citizenship. Consequently, the Academic Honor Society program has been extended to the elementary and grade school level students. Qualified applicants are current Judo students who maintain high quality class work, good attendance, and display respectful and courteous relations with teachers, faculty, staff, and fellow students. These applications must be submitted by October to be recognized for the academic year prior. For more information, here are links to this academic program.

I would recommend completing the following paperwork before your summer vacation begins.

USJF Academic Honor Society – Project A Elementary & Grade School Students

Application For USJF Academic Honor Society Membership Middle School, Junior, & Senior High School Students.

Nage no Kata clinic planned

Osugi Sensei plans on a Nage no Kata clinic in August. Nage no Kata is required for your Shodan, 1st degree Black Belt, promotion requirements. After participating in this fundamental clinic, you will better understand the importance of proper kuzushi, movement, and positioning in executing throwing techniques, both left- and right-handed.

Katame no Kata is required for your Nidan, 2nd degree Black Belt, promotion requirements. Ju no Kata is required for your Sandan, 3rd degree Black Belt, promotion requirements.

Plan on being there. You will never learn the techniques properly, their nuances, history, and receive feedback from videos.

Darcel Yandzi Judo Clinic

Registration into this clinic is now closed with over 125 registrants. This clinic, hosted by Darcel Yandzi, French European Champion, and former Olympian, popular on Instagram, will be held at the Esther Snyder Community Center in Baldwin Park, CA on 3-5 September.

Hollywood Judo Dojo Scrimmage IV

After a four-month break, Hollywood Judo Dojo will host its Hollywood Judo Scrimmage IV at Hollywood Judo Dojo for Sunday 25 September from 12:00-4:00 pm.  Mark your calendars. The Juniors will also have another scrimmage at Hollywood as everyone returns from holiday and goes back to school.

For our new referees, well Junior referees especially

Kokakids has a referees’ poster showing the different hand signals and gestures given during a Judo match. Download your poster with this link  Remember these basic signals for tournaments.  Please note that “Yuko” is no longer used in Judo scoring.

KokaKids also offers free e-book with “Judo terminology, 85 Japanese words.” Simply enter your email address to receive your e-book.

Reminder to all members

Please confirm that your Judo federation membership is valid. USJF, USJA, and/or USA Judo.

RENEW your federation membership before it expires. You may simply renew your federation membership online, USJF, USJA, and/or USA Judo..

COVID exposure or tested positive reminder guidelines

In consideration of others and to prevent a COVID outbreak, for those of you who have been close exposure to COVID from a family, friends, colleagues, etc., please follow the CDC guidelines as follows.

If you have tested positive for COVID recently, please follow these CDC guidelines.

Before you return after your quarantine period, you will need to show proof of your negative COVID test result.

With that said, in general, if you are sick, have a fever, or have other flu-like symptoms, please stay home until you are well.

If you have updated your COVID vaccinations by receiving another booster shot since you first joined our Dojo, please report it by texting or emailing an image of your COVID vaccination status.

Mask up again

In accordance with CDC and LA County Health Dept. guidelines, we will resume wearing well-fitting masks during Judo practice for the time being.

We are closely monitoring this situation as COVID cases continues to rise and the change in COVID level designation to HIGH, now.

Reminder to all instructors, referees, and coaches

Please confirm that all your certifications and background checks are up to date to continue to instruct, referee, and/or coach.

CDC Concussion (valid for three (3) years only)

By the end of the training, you will be prepared to:

Safesport (valid for one (1) year only)

A comprehensive 90-minute overview of facts, principles, and strategies to help you provide safe and positive sport environments. Units include:

Background check (valid for two (2) years only)

First Aid/Red Cross (optional, valid for two (2) years)

Check your USJF membership portal

You may access and track your relevant USJF information on the USJF membership portal. Please login and confirm your information. Use your email address and create a password to register onto the USJF membership portal highlighted in BOLD letters in the center of the page.

Find your status on the following.

Personal information

USJF membership

Rank promotions

Valid certificates

Dojo/Yudanshakai affiliation

Entering our Dojo

For the time being, we ask for your cooperation as we have our Dojo protocols to insure the health and well-being of our membership.

Since LA County is now designated as HIGH COVID infection rate, we will continue to wear masks during our workouts.

Following the latest LA Public Health Dept. guidelines, and since we have a vaccinated membership, beginning today Monday 28 February, masks are optional during workouts, in all of our Adaptive, and Seniors’ classes. You may continue to wear your masks if you would like. For our Juniors’ class, we will continue to wear masks until further notice following latest LA Public Health Dept. guidelines and LAUSD school/COVID protocols.

As members and visitors enter our Dojo, as protocol, they will ask the following questions.

Did you read yesterday’s newsletter? If not, they will receive a copy of the following text.

Have you been exposed to anyone who has tested positive for COVID in the last two weeks?

Have you been COVID vaccinated & boosted? When did you receive your booster? Has it been more than five months since you received your initial vaccination shots? If so, get your booster shot, now.

Here is a list of reminders for our members as they return to practice.

As before, we will still follow our standard protocol for our memberships. To enter our Dojo and to either watch, or practice with everyone else, you must be fully vaccinated if they are eligible to be vaccinated. It is for the health and safety of each other.

We want to ensure the safest practice environment as possible for our membership to prevent COVID infections. We are also looking into other preventative measures against COVID-19 infections as well. Wash your Judogi clean, cut and file your finger and toenails smooth and short, and look the part when you return. We will continue to follow the LA County mask mandate until further notice. Everyone entering our Dojo must be fully vaccinated and boosted, when eligible. No exceptions. If you have been with someone that has tested positive for COVID in the last two weeks, please show proof of a negative test. We are on the honor system.

Planning to join our Dojo

If you plan to register and join our Dojo for Judo practice, complete your online USJF membership and monthly subscription. Bring in your complete and signed Judogi. Arrive 30 minutes before class starts to provide enough time to review your enrollment form and fit you into your new Judogi if you do not already have one. For more information or assistance in enrollment, please contact us at sawtellejudo@gmail.com or 310 463-4962. You are always welcome to visit.

Please show proof of vaccination as all members and visitors must be vaccinated and boosted when eligible. This is not only for your safety but everyone else’s safety as well. Vaccination does work. Our doctors have recommended it. You must wear a mask.

Kodokan Judo YouTube Channel videos

For your reference, here is the link for the Kodokan Judo YouTube Channel with a large assortment of Judo demonstration videos. Learn to associate the names of each technique with the actual execution of each technique.

“Walk a single path, become either cocky with victory nor broken with defeat.”

-Jigoro Kano-

What to look forward to-Scrimmages, Tournaments, and more…

Let’s set your goals high and prepare for the Winter Nationals, our year-end, grand tournament of the year. After a three-year hiatus, the Winter Nationals returns for Saturday/Sunday 2-3 December event format at Felix Center on the campus of Azusa Pacific University. In past years, in an one-day event format, upwards of 745 competitors fought on eight mats representing France, Tahiti, Japan and other countries, plus across our Nation. There are more Black Belts, Veterans, Masters, and Women divisions than in any other tournaments in the country. The Winter Nationals draws the best in the Southern California, plus some of the best in the US,

It’s seven months away. So, in the meantime, plan on being competing in every tournament that you possibly can, show up for practice and give your best 100% as often as possible, and work on a specific technique each evening to improve and perfecting your Judo skills. After each workout, write down what you have learned, study videos, practice your shadow uchikomi/tandoku renshu, or solo Judo exercises. Stay healthy, be prepared, and plan for success. Write it down. Don’t wing it because your competitor will show you.

“You will never get any more out of life than you expect.”

-Bruce Lee-

Last time in 2019, we brought a small army of 40 competitors and over thirty volunteers to participate and support this year-end event, This is your big stage to show off and test your skills.

By far, the Winter Nationals is our largest local tournament aside from the Golden State Open. With the two-day expanded format and outstanding tournament attendance this year, we could expect well over 1,000 competitors, breaking all records, This year celebrates this grassroots event’s 17th anniversary founded by Gary Goltz, head instructor of Goltz Judo Club, Claremont, CA. Back then, a couple hundred competitors turned out at Damien High School.

As the Judo community returns and resurrects itself, local tournament activity is slowly coming back with the Taishi Judo tournament in March, and the recent Golden State Open Judo Championships just two weeks ago. The Barstow Judo Tournament is canceled this year. The Barstow Judo Club is still reeling from the effects of the two-year COVID shutdown and is still rebuilding its membership. Some other Nanka Judo Dojos are just opening now, too.

Gardena Judo Club

Venice Judo Club

West Covina Judo Dojo

Team One Judo Club-Anaheim, CA

There is another USA Judo points tournament later in June.

USA Judo Junior Olympics, 24-26 June, San Jose, CA

A highly aspiring Maurice Cruz-Morales plans on competing at this tournament hungry for victory after a six-year absence from Judo competition.

But as July rolls around, it marks Judo’s peak season for national Judo tournaments across the Nation with three large events at the end of the month.

USJF/USJA Summer Nationals

USA Judo Open Championships

US Open Judo Championships

Later in the fall, there are these tournaments already on the calendar.

Fresno Judo Club Judo Tournament, Sunday 2 October, Fresno, CA (sanction pending)

Dr. Z Memorial Scrimmage, Saturday 8 October, Claremont, CA

Women’s Breast Cancer Awareness Judo Tournament, TBD, Riverside, CA

Unscheduled tournaments, clinics, and seminars

In a typical Nanka Judo Yudanshakai (Southern California Black Belt Association) tournament calendar, you could expect the following events interspersed with a few special clinics and seminars, by month.

January

San Fernando Valley Judo Club Tournament, Pacoima, CA

USJF Teachers’ Course, Pacoima, CA

February

Sensei Memorial/San Jose Buddhist Judo Tournament,

West Coast Invitational Judo Tournament, Westminster, CA

USJA Referees’ Clinic, Hollywood, CA

USA Judo Referees’ Clinic, Baldwin Park, CA

Pacific International Judo Tournament, British Columbia, Canada

March

Taishi Judo Club Invitational Judo Tournament, Westminster, CA

CHP 11-99 Foundation Scrimmage, Claremont, CA

Clovis Judo Tournament, Clovis, CA

USJF Referees’ Clinic, Gardena, CA

USA Judo National Scholastics Championships, Lansing, MI (venues change annually)

Obukan Judo Tournament, Portland, OR

Kosen Shoshinkan Judo Tournament, Las Vegas, NV

April

Mojica Judo Club Spring Tournament, Baldwin Park, CA

Nanka Judo Spring Tournament, Westminster, CA

Nanka Awards Luncheon, Long Beach, CA

CJI State Championships, San Francisco, CA

USA Judo Youth Nationals

Tucson Developmental Scramble, Tucson, AZ

May

Golden State Open Judo Championships, Covina, CA

June

Barstow Judo Tournament, Barstow, CA

U.S. Adaptive Judo Championships, Riverside, CA

Sensei Gary’s Birthday Scrimmage, Claremont, CA

U.S. Senior Nationals, Irving, TX

USA Judo Junior Olympics, San Jose, CA. (venues change annually)

July

USJF/USJA Summer Nationals

USA Judo Open Championships

US Open Judo Championships

Cal States Judo Championships, San Diego, CA

Southwest Open, Mesa, AZ

August

Nikkei Games Judo Tournament, Long Beach, CA

Bojuka Judo Tournament, Seaside, CA

September

Nanka Judo Fall Tournament, Westminster, CA

West Covina Novice Tournament, West Covina, CA

East Bay Institute Judo Tournament, El Cerrito, CA

October

Nanka Judo Team Championships, Westminster, CA

Fresno Judo Club Tournament, Fresno, CA

Dr. Z Memorial Scrimmage, Claremont, CA

Women’s Breast Cancer Awareness Judo Tournament, Riverside, CA

Capitol State Open Judo Tournament, Sacramento, CA

Fukuda Kata Championships, San Francisco, CA

November

City College of San Francisco Judo Tournament, San Francisco, CA

Lil’ Judoka Championships, La Puente, CA

Nevada State Open, Las Vegas, NV

Quebec Open Judo Tournament, Montreal, Canada

Ontario Open Judo Tournament, Ontario, Canada

USA Judo Presidents’ Cup, Irving, TX

December

Winter Nationals, Azusa, CA

We last hosted our very successful, efficiently run, and well-praised tournament back in November 2017, the 90th Anniversary Sawtelle Judo Dojo Open Tournament at Westminster High School.

Follow us on social media

Mostly on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Twitch

-comment, share, repost, or tagged us

Please watch this video about Sawtelle Judo Documentary and listen to Osugi Sensei’s commitment to his students along with his late father’s, Ed Osugi.

We practice at the Japanese Institute of Sawtelle.

Japanese Institute of Sawtelle

2110 Corinth Ave.

Los Angeles, CA  90025

Our mailing address is the following.

Sawtelle Judo Dojo

11247 Rudman Drive

Culver City, CA  90230

Cellphone/text

310 463-4962

Email address

sawtelledojo@gmail.com

Class hours

Juniors’ (6-12 years old)-Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 6:00-7:00 pm

Seniors’ (13 years old and older) Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 7:30-9:30 pm

 For more information, please visit our website, Sawtelle Judo Dojo

ソーテル柔道道場 (So-teru Judo Dojo)

May 31, 2022

What to look forward to-Scrimmages, Tournaments, and more…

Let’s set your goals high and prepare for the Winter Nationals, our year-end, grand tournament of the year. After a three-year hiatus, the Winter Nationals returns for Saturday/Sunday 2-3 December event format at Felix Center on the campus of Azusa Pacific University. In past years, in an one-day event format, upwards of 745 competitors fought on eight mats representing France, Tahiti, Japan and other countries, plus across our Nation. There are more Black Belts, Veterans, Masters, and Women divisions than in any other tournaments in the country. The Winter Nationals draws the best in the Southern California, plus some of the best in the US,

It’s seven months away. So, in the meantime, plan on being competing in every tournament that you possibly can, show up for practice and give your best 100% as often as possible, and work on a specific technique each evening to improve and perfecting your Judo skills. After each workout, write down what you have learned, study videos, practice your shadow uchikomi/tandoku renshu, or solo Judo exercises. Stay healthy, be prepared, and plan for success. Write it down. Don’t wing it because your competitor will show you.

Last time in 2019, we brought a small army of 40 competitors and over thirty volunteers to participate and support this year-end event, This is your big stage to show off and test your skills.

“You will never get any more out of life than you expect.”

-Bruce Lee-

By far, it is our largest local tournament aside from the Golden State Open. With the two-day expanded format and outstanding tournament attendance this year, we could expect well over 1,000 competitors, breaking all records, This year celebrates this grassroots event’s 17th anniversary founded by Gary Goltz, head instructor of Goltz Judo Club, Claremont, CA. Back then, a couple hundred competitors turned out at Damien High School.

At Orange Terrace Park Center, the Riverside Youth Judo Club will host its 2022 U.S. Adaptive Judo Championships.      Bobby Holtz along with a cadre of other volunteers will return once again to participate in this event. Tournament is specifically for developmentally disabled special needs athletes. The referees and coaches are certified to work with special needs individuals. Many of the other volunteers at this event are BCBA’s and RBT’s. Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Registered Behavior Technician, respectively. This is a very special event for its participants and its volunteers.

Moving on, June brings two scrimmages mainly for our Juniors to participate in.

Sensei Gary’s Birthday Scrimmage, Saturday 18 June, Claremont, CA

Hollywood Juniors’ Scrimmage, Saturday 25 June, 1:00-3:30 pm, Hollywood Judo Dojo, CA

The Sensei Gary’s Birthday Scrimmage, named after their head instructor Gary Goltz, is a small scrimmage with three competition mats at the Alexander Hughes Community Center in Claremont, CA. Registration is very limited. So, register now so you will not miss out. Go to this link and open the online registration page by scanning the QR on this page. For the Showman that he is, here is Sensei Gary Goltz’ scrimmage promotional video. Well done!

As the Judo community returns and resurrects itself, local tournament activity is slowly coming back with the Taishi Judo tournament in March, and the recent Golden State Open Judo Championships just two weeks ago. The Barstow Judo Tournament is canceled this year. The Barstow Judo Club is still reeling from the effects of the two-year COVID shutdown and is still rebuilding its membership. Some other Nanka Judo Dojos are just opening now, too.

Gardena Judo Club

Venice Judo Club

West Covina Judo Dojo

Team One Judo Club-Anaheim, CA

There is another USA Judo points tournament later in June.

USA Judo Junior Olympics, 24-26 June, San Jose, CA

A highly aspiring Maurice Cruz-Morales plans on competing at this tournament hungry for victory after a six-year absence from Judo competition.

But as July rolls around, it marks Judo’s peak season for national Judo tournaments across the Nation with three large events at the end of the month.

USJF-USJA Summer Nationals, 21-24 July, Fort Lauderdale, FL

USA Judo Open Championships, 24 July, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

US Open Judo Championships, 28-31 July, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

This year, they are collocated and fall within one week of each other. These tournaments are elite events bringing together some of the best Judokas from the US as well as few international competitors from Latin America, Europe, and Asia.

The next local tournament will be in San Diego called the Cal State Games will be on Sunday 17 July at Montgomery High School in San Diego, CA. The tournament will be hosted by Unidos Judo Club, San Diego, CA/Tijuana, MX. Recommend that everyone compete at this tournament.

Our Seniors will have another opportunity for tournament practice at the Hollywood Judo Dojo Scrimmage IV in August.

Later in the fall, there are these tournaments already on the calendar.

Fresno Judo Club Judo Tournament, Sunday 2 October, Fresno, CA (sanction pending)

Dr. Z Memorial Scrimmage, Saturday 8 October, Claremont, CA

Women’s Breast Cancer Awareness Judo Tournament, TBD, Riverside, CA

Unscheduled tournaments, clinics, and seminars

In a typical Nanka Judo Yudanshakai (Southern California Black Belt Association) tournament calendar, you could expect the following events interspersed with a few special clinics and seminars, by month.

January

San Fernando Valley Judo Club Tournament, Pacoima, CA

USJF Teachers’ Course, Pacoima, CA

February

Sensei Memorial/San Jose Buddhist Judo Tournament,

West Coast Invitational Judo Tournament, Westminster, CA

USJA Referees’ Clinic, Hollywood, CA

USA Judo Referees’ Clinic, Baldwin Park, CA

Pacific International Judo Tournament, British Columbia, Canada

March

Taishi Judo Club Invitational Judo Tournament, Westminster, CA

CHP 11-99 Foundation Scrimmage, Claremont, CA

Clovis Judo Tournament, Clovis, CA

USJF Referees’ Clinic, Gardena, CA

USA Judo National Scholastics Championships, Lansing, MI (venues change annually)

Obukan Judo Tournament, Portland, OR

Kosen Shoshinkan Judo Tournament, Las Vegas, NV

April

Mojica Judo Club Spring Tournament, Baldwin Park, CA

Nanka Judo Spring Tournament, Westminster, CA

Nanka Awards Luncheon, Long Beach, CA

CJI State Championships, San Francisco, CA

USA Judo Youth Nationals, Salt Lake City, UT (venues change annually)

Tucson Developmental Scramble, Tucson, AZ

May

Golden State Open Judo Championships, Covina, CA

June

Barstow Judo Tournament, Barstow, CA

U.S. Adaptive Judo Championships, Riverside, CA

Sensei Gary’s Birthday Scrimmage, Claremont, CA

U.S. Senior Nationals, Irving, TX

USA Judo Junior Olympics, San Jose, CA. (venues change annually)

July

USJF-USJA Summer Nationals, Fort Lauderdale, FL (venues change annually)

USA Judo Open Championships, Ft. Lauderdale, FL (venues change annually)

US Open Judo Championships, Ft. Lauderdale, FL (venues change annually)

Cal States Judo Championships, San Diego, CA

Southwest Open, Mesa, AZ

August

Nikkei Games Judo Tournament, Long Beach, CA

Bojuka Judo Tournament, Seaside, CA

September

Nanka Judo Fall Tournament, Westminster, CA

West Covina Novice Tournament, West Covina, CA

East Bay Institute Judo Tournament, El Cerrito, CA

October

Nanka Judo Team Championships, Westminster, CA

Fresno Judo Club Tournament, Fresno, CA

Dr. Z Memorial Scrimmage, Claremont, CA

Women’s Breast Cancer Awareness Judo Tournament, Riverside, CA

Capitol State Open Judo Tournament, Sacramento, CA

Fukuda Kata Championships, San Francisco, CA

November

City College of San Francisco Judo Tournament, San Francisco, CA

Lil’ Judoka Championships, La Puente, CA

Nevada State Open, Las Vegas, NV

Quebec Open Judo Tournament, Montreal, Canada

Ontario Open Judo Tournament, Ontario, Canada

USA Judo Presidents’ Cup, Irving, TX

December

Winter Nationals, Azusa, CA

We last hosted our very successful, efficiently run, and well-praised tournament back in November 2017, the 90th Anniversary Sawtelle Judo Dojo Open Tournament at Westminster High School. We will definitely have to host another tournament before our 100th anniversary in 2027.

April 18, 2022

An Excellent Activity Schedule

Parents’ Tai Chi demonstration class continues this Friday-22 April

Referees’ Clinic-24 April (register now)

Next Juniors’ In-House tournament 2022-29 April

Goshin Jutsu Kata Clinic-30 April

Hollywood Judo Scrimmage III roster update-1 May

Golden State Open National Championships-13-15 May (register now)

Next hike-22 May

Dojo tournament/event schedule

Olds (opposite of News)

Things are slowly returning to normal as our Judo schedule is quickly filling up with events and tournaments. There are scrimmages and tournaments for our competitors. For others, there are referee and kata training clinics and seminars. Plus, we still have our regular Judo practices, three nights a week, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”-Aristotle (384-322 BC) Greek Philosopher

“Watch your actions. They become your habits. Watch your habits. They become your character.”-Vince Lombardi (1913-1970) NFL 2-time Super Bowl Champion head coach

Final Parents’ Tai Chi demonstration class continues this Friday-22 April

For our parents, Kerry Ikehara, one of our Judo members, offers a Tai Chi class while you wait for your child(ren) finish their Judo class. Kerry is a Karate Black Belt instructor teaching at Shinsei Dojo in Torrance. He incorporates Tai Chi as part of his martial arts training. Kerry will give his final Tai Chi demonstration class tonight Friday 22 April. For the month of April, these Tai Chi classes will be free, given once a week on Friday evenings beginning at 6:15 pm for 30-45 minutes, except on Juniors’ In-house tournament evenings. The class is $30/month and will be held in Room 2. You will also need to be registered with the USJF for liability, $70/annual. By being an USJF member, you support our Judo community, its tournaments, clinics, educational seminars, training, and your children.

Referees’ Clinic-24 April

On Sunday 24 April from 10:00 am-2:00 pm,we will host a Referees’ Clinic for our members. The clinic will be hosted by Gary Takemoto, Head Instructor @ Harbor Judo Dojo. He is one of the best referees with a long list of credentials and esteemed experience. Registration forms are now available. Please email us at sawtellejudo@gmail.com. For our members, please turn-in your registration form along with your registration next week before the clinic next Sunday. You may complete, sign and scan back your registration form to sawtellejudo@gmail.com You may ZELLE your registration fee and/or certificate fees to 310 463-4962, under Sawtelle Judo Dojo.

IJF-A Referee / 2016 Rio Olympics Referee / 2022 USA Judo/IJF/PJC delegate to Lima, Peru for the 2022-2024 IJF Rules Seminar / USA Judo International Referees Development Director. He is also the Referee Chairman for Nanka Judo.

This clinic is tailored for our Seniors Brown Belts in fulfilling their Black Belt requirements and being trained as referees. This is also for our older Juniors to prepare them as Junior referees. In either case, refereeing at local tournaments will improve your focus, concentration, and overall knowledge of Judo rules, protocol, and techniques. As soon as the USJF officially sanctions this clinic, I will forward the clinic’s official registration form and pricing to you. Juniors will be eligible to referee at local tournaments at the age of 10 years old or older. This clinic will be opened to other Dojos and clubs in and outside of Nanka Judo Yudanshakai.

The clinic will be held at Jovany Varela’s Competition Team Anaconda Academy in Gardena, CA.

Anaconda Academy

13428 Normandie Ave, 

Gardena, CA 90249

Next Juniors’ In-House tournament 2022-Friday 29 April

On this Friday 29 April, starting with warmups @ 6:00 pm. Invite your friends and family. They can also watch this event via LIVE STREAMED on TWITCH @ https://www.twitch.tv/sawtelle_judo_dojo

Goshin Jutsu Kata -Saturday 30 April

This advanced Kata clinic given by Osugi Sensei and Brian Mark Sensei on Saturday 30 April at Valley Judo Institute from 9:00 am-5:00 pm. This kata is required for your Yodan (4th degree Black Belt) and above promotions.

Here is the registration form and additional information.

Valley Judo Institute

8850 Lankershim Blvd.

Sun Valley, CA 91352

(323) 725-3090

This clinic is open to following:

The purpose is to teach the IJF Kodokan Goshin Jutsu standards. Provide testing for Nanka “C”

level certification. The Nanka “C” level certification will satisfy one of the requirements for

Yodan and above promotions for USJF.

$80.00 per person or $100.00 with partner (both partners must register together). If you wish to

test at the end of the clinic, the testing fee is $20.00 plus $20.00 certification fee per person. The

Testing and Certification fee will be waved for all Nanka Judo Yudanshakai members.

Lunch will be served to all paid participants; $15.00 fee for non-participants who would like to

participate in the clinic lunch program.

In preparation for this clinic, here are a series of instructional and demonstration videos.

Instructional video

Demonstration video

Here is a .pdf file reviewing Goshin Jutsu published by the Kodokan Judo Institute

Unarmed section

1. When held

  1. Ryote-dori (two hand hold)
  2. Hidari-eri-dori (left lapel hold)
  3. Migi-eri-dori (right lapel hold)
  4. Kata Ude-dori (single hand hold)
  5. Ushiro-eri-dori (collar hold from behind)
  6. Ushiro-jime (choke from behind)
  7. Kakae-dori (seize and hold from behind)

2. When attacked from a distance

  1. Naname-uchi (Slanting strike)
  2. Ago-tsuki (Upper cut)
  3. Ganmen-tsuki (Thrust/punch to the face)
  4. Mae-geri (Front kick)
  5. Yoko-geri (Side kick)

Weapons section

1. against Dagger (Tantoh)

  1. Tsukkake (Thrust)
  2. Choku-tsuki (Straight thrust)
  3. Naname-tsuki (Slanting stab)

2. against Staff (short) (Tanboh)

  1. Furi-age (Upswing against staff)
  2. Furi-oroshi (Downswing against staff)
  3. Morote-tsuki (Two hands thrust against staff)

3. against Pistol (Tanjuu)

  1. Shomen-zuke (Pistol at the abdomen)
  2. Koshi-gamae (Pistol at the side)
  3. Haimen-zuke (Pistol against the back)

There are 21 techniques in all.

If you are interested in purchasing your own set of dagger, pistol, and short staff, please visit Martial Arts Mart.

Dagger

Pistol

Short staff

Hollywood Judo Scrimmage III update-Sunday 1 May

The day after the Goshin Jutsu Kata Clinic, Sunday 1 May from 12:00 noon-4:00 pm, we will be at our nest Hollywood Judo Scrimmage. This scrimmage was moved since original date, 17 April, fell on Easter Sunday. The hours have been expanded to have more competition.

If you are interested in joining let us know.

Hollywood Judo Scrimmage IV remains on our calendar, Sunday 5 June.

We are working on a Juniors’ version of the Hollywood Scrimmage in early June.

Golden State Open National Championships-Friday/Saturday/Sunday 13-15 May

(read carefully and register now)

With some time on the mat and a month to prepare, it is time to test your skills and compete at the Golden State Open Judo Championships on Saturday/Sunday, 14/15 May at Northview High School in Covina, CA.

Many are expected to compete at this large, three-day national points tournament, 13-15 May. By placing in the top three, competitors will be awarded, not only medals, but highly sought after national ranking points. Sponsored by USA Judo, our national federation representing the US in international competition, these ranking points display the most competitive and successful Judoka from across the country. Expect the best, most competitive, and hungry competitors there.

On Friday 13 April, those of you competing in the following divisions will need to check-in/weigh-in for this tournament.

Juvenile (2008-2009)

Cadet (Born 2005-2007

Seniors (includes Novice)

Masters (30 years old and above)

On Saturday 14 April, those of you competing in the following divisions will need to check-in/weigh-in for this tournament.

Bantam (Born 2012-2017)

Intermediate (Born 2010-2011)

IJF-Juniors (Born 2002-2007)

You may fight in multiple divisions, if eligible. For our novice members (white, yellow, & orange), you may weigh-in on Friday 13 May at our Dojo. All others will need to venture out to Northview High School on the appropriate days. Weigh-ins have been extended until 8:00 pm on Friday 13 April. However, you will have to register prior to 7:00 pm to be eligible. Morning weigh-ins are until 8:00 am. You must make weight for your respective weight category, or you will be disqualified from the tournament and forfeit your registration fees.

Tournament information and rules

Tournament announcement 

Tournament website

To register online for this event

Before Friday 6 May-$75

Walk-in registration 13/14 April-$100

For those of you who are new to Judo, competing at Judo tournaments is an important part of your learning process and a test of your skills against others who want to test and be successful. But winning and getting medals at tournaments is not the most important thing. It is a real test of your skills. You will encounter ups and downs, guaranteed. It is who you are in those moments where you will grow and transform. It is all part of your learning process, a test of your will to excel, move on from failure quickly, and strive to be your best. 

If you do not have a copy of your USJF membership card, please email Terri Waibel, USJF Administrative Manager, for an image of your USJF membership card. Keep your image and/or print it out for quick reference. You will need your USJF membership card for registering future tournaments, clinic, or seminars.

This tournament will be run online by SmoothComp.com.

Next hike-Sunday 22 May

On 22 May, we will hike up Brush Canyon towards the Griffin Park Observatory in the other direction. We had 16 people join us on the Brush Canyon hike to the Hollywood Sign last Sunday. Here are photos from that hike.

Dojo tournament schedule

Extra Seniors Workout, every Saturday @ Hollywood Judo Dojo from 1:00-2:00 pm

USJF/Nanka Referees’ Clinic, Sunday, 24 April from 10:00 am-2:00 pm, given by Gary Takemoto Sensei, @ Anaconda Academy (pending official sanctioning)

First Juniors’ In-House tournament 2022, Friday 29 April, starts with warmups @ 6:00 pm

-This event will be LIVE STREAMED on TWITCH @ https://www.twitch.tv/sawtelle_judo_dojo

Goshin Jutsu Kata practice Saturday, 30 April from 9:30 am-12:00 pm @ Valley Judo Institute, Sun Valley, CA

 

Hollywood Judo Scrimmage III, Sunday 1 May, 12:00 noon-4:00 pm

Kata practices, Saturday 7 May from 9:30 am-12:00 pm @ Anaconda Academy, Gardena, Ca

Golden State Judo Championships, 13-15 May, Northwiew High School, Covina, CA

Next hike, Sunday 22 May, 10:00 am-1:30 pm, Brush Canyon Trail (east towards Griffith Park)

2022 Senior National Championships, 21-22 May, Daytona Beach, FL

Hollywood Judo Scrimmage IV, Sunday 5 June, 12:00 noon-4:00 pm

Closed Memorial Day, Monday 30 May

USA Judo Junior Olympics, 24-26 June, San Jose, CA

Sensei Gary’s Birthday Scrimmage, 25 June, Claremont, CA

Closed Fourth of July, Monday 4 July

California State Games Judo Event, 17 July, San Diego, CA

USJF-USJA Summer Nationals, 21-24 July, Fort Lauderdale, FL

USA Judo Open Championships, 24 July, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

US Open Judo Championships, 28-31 July, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Closed Labor Day, Monday 5 September

 

Dr. Z Memorial Scrimmage, 8 October, Claremont, CA

Closed Thanksgiving Weekend, Thursday 24 November-Sunday 27 November

Last Juniors’ In-House tournament 2022, Friday 20 November, starts with warmups @ 6:00 pm

17th Annual Judo Winter Nationals, 4 December, Azusa, CA

Annual Holiday Awards & Potluck Party, Friday 9 December

Winter Holiday Shutdown, Saturday 10 December-Tuesday 3 January 2023

Dojo 2023 Re-opening, Tuesday 3 January 2023

Olds (opposite of News)

Dojo Subscriptions-Newsletter & Monthly

If you are no longer interested in our newsletter or joining our Dojo, you may simply unsubscribe from this list 

 to our newsletter. From then on, you will not receive any calls or email inquiries from Sawtelle Judo Dojo. If you plan to discontinue your membership and would like to terminate your monthly subscription, please email us at sawtellejudo@gmail.com.

Green Belt Promotions

On Wednesday night, five Seniors were promoted to Green Belt. It is one step in your Judo journey.

Dmitrii Efremov

Max Ikikura

Andrew Kurth

Gabriel Parrado

Andrey Tsoy

Congratulations to them all!

New members to our Seniors’ class

Collin Hertz

Kenny Sheftel

USJF Academic Scholastic Awards

The USJF (United States Judo Federation) promotes academic excellence by recognizing students at the elementary & grade school level who are excelling at their studies and citizenship. Consequently, the Academic Honor Society program has been extended to the elementary and grade school level students. Qualified applicants are current Judo students who maintain high quality class work, good attendance, and display respectful and courteous relations with teachers, faculty, staff, and fellow students. These applications must be submitted by October to be recognized for the academic year prior. For more information, here are links to this academic program.

USJF Academic Honor Society – Project A Elementary & Grade School Students

Application For USJF Academic Honor Society Membership Middle School, Junior, & Senior High School Students.

Entering our Dojo

For the time being, we ask for your cooperation as we have our Dojo protocols to insure the health and well-being of our membership.

Following the latest LA Public Health Dept. guidelines, and since we have a vaccinated membership, beginning today Monday 28 February, masks are optional during workouts, in all of our Adaptive, and Seniors’ classes. You may continue to wear your masks if you would like. For our Juniors’ class, we will continue to wear masks until further notice following latest LA Public Health Dept. guidelines and LAUSD school/COVID protocols.

As members and visitors enter our Dojo, as protocol, they will ask the following questions.

Did you read yesterday’s newsletter? If not, they will receive a copy of the following text.

Have you been exposed to anyone who has tested positive for COVID in the last two weeks?

Have you been COVID vaccinated & boosted? When did you receive your booster? Has it been more than five months since you received your initial vaccination shots? If so, get your booster shot, now.

Here is a list of reminders for our members as they return to practice.

As before, we will still follow our standard protocol for our memberships. To enter our Dojo and to either watch, or practice with everyone else, you must be fully vaccinated if they are eligible to be vaccinated. It is for the health and safety of each other.

We want to ensure the safest practice environment as possible for our membership to prevent COVID infections. We are also looking into other preventative measures against COVID-19 infections as well. Wash your Judogi clean, cut and file your finger and toenails smooth and short, and look the part when you return. We will continue to follow the LA County mask mandate until further notice. Everyone entering our Dojo must be fully vaccinated and boosted, when eligible. No exceptions. If you have been with someone that has tested positive for COVID in the last two weeks, please show proof of a negative test. We are on the honor system.

Planning to join our Dojo

If you plan to register and join our Dojo for Judo practice, complete your online USJF membership and monthly subscription. Bring in your complete and signed Judogi. Arrive 30 minutes before class starts to provide enough time to review your enrollment form and fit you into your new Judogi if you do not already have one. For more information or assistance in enrollment, please contact us at sawtellejudo@gmail.com or 310 463-4962. You are always welcome to visit. However, please show proof of vaccination as all members and visitors must be vaccinated and boosted when eligible.

Kodokan Judo YouTube Channel videos

For your reference, here is the link for the Kodokan Judo YouTube Channel with a large assortment of Judo demonstration videos. Learn to associate the names of each technique with the actual execution of each technique.

Follow us on social media

Mostly on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and now Twitch

-comment, share, repost, or tagged us

Please watch this video about Sawtelle Judo Dojo and listen to Osugi Sensei’s commitment to his students along with his late father’s, Ed Osugi.

We practice at the Japanese Institute of Sawtelle.

Japanese Institute of Sawtelle

2110 Corinth Ave.

Los Angeles, CA  90025

Our mailing address is the following.

Sawtelle Judo Dojo

11247 Rudman Drive

Culver City, CA  90230

Cellphone/text

310 463-4962

Email address

sawtelledojo@gmail.com

Class hours

Adaptive Judo-Monday only 5:00-5;45 pm

Juniors’ (6-12 years old)-Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 6:00-7:00 pm

Seniors’ (13 years old and older) Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 7:30-9:30 pm

 For more information, please visit our website, Sawtelle Judo Dojo

ソーテル柔道道場 (So-teru Judo Dojo)

April 3, 2022

Hollywood Judo Scrimmage III

Newly added-Hollywood Judo Scrimmage III

Next Juniors’ In-House tournament 2022

Parents’ Tai Chi demonstration class continues this Friday

Referees’ Clinic (tentative schedule)

Next hike

Dojo tournament/event schedule

Newly added- Hollywood Judo Scrimmage III

Mark your calendars for Sunday 1 May from 12:00 noon-4:00 pm for our nest Hollywood Judo Scrimmage. This scrimmage was moved since original date, 17 April, fell on Easter Sunday. The hours have been expanded to have more competition. However, it is only opened to the first fifteen from our Dojo because of limited occupancy. Test your skills sooner.

Hollywood Judo Scrimmage IV remains on our calendar, Sunday 5 June

Referees’ Clinic

On Sunday 24 April from 10:00 am-2:00 pm,we will host a Referees’ Clinic for our members. The clinic will be hosted by Gary Takemoto, Head Instructor @ Harbor Judo Dojo. He is one of the best referees with a long list of credentials and esteemed experience.

IJF-A Referee / 2016 Rio Olympics Referee / 2022 USA Judo/IJF/PJC delegate to Lima, Peru for the 2022-2024 IJF Rules Seminar / USA Judo International Referees Development Director. He is also the Referee Chairman for Nanka Judo.

This clinic is tailored for our Seniors Brown Belts in fulfilling their Black Belt requirements and being trained as referees. This is also for our older Juniors to prepare them as Junior referees. In either case, refereeing at local tournaments will improve your focus, concentration, and overall knowledge of Judo rules, protocol, and techniques. As soon as the USJF officially sanctions this clinic, I will forward the clinic’s official registration form and pricing to you. Juniors will be eligible to referee at local tournaments at the age of 10 years old or older. This clinic will be opened to other Dojos and clubs in and outside of Nanka Judo Yudanshakai.

The clinic will be held at Jovany Varela’s Competition Team Anaconda Academy in Gardena, CA.

Anaconda Academy

13428 Normandie Ave, 

Gardena, CA 90249

Next Juniors’ In-House tournament 2022

On this Friday 29 April, starting with warmups @ 6:00 pm. Invite your friends and family. They can also watch this event via LIVE STREAMED on TWITCH @ https://www.twitch.tv/sawtelle_judo_dojo

Goshin Jutsu Kata Clinic

This advanced Kata clinic given by Osugi Sensei and Brian Mark Sensei on Saturday 30 April at Valley Judo Institute from 9:00 am-5:00 pm.

Valley Judo Institute

8850 Lankershim Blvd.

Sun Valley, CA 91352

(323) 725-3090

This clinic is open to following:

  • All Judoka of Sandan rank looking to satisfy Goshin Jutsu requirements for promotion to Yodan (fourth degree black belt) and aboveAll judoka Sankyu and above; all students who have not reached the rank of Sankyu brown belt, must have Kata competition experience or be Nanka Certified Junior Referee.All Certified Judo Instructors, Coaches and Referees.Every participant is encouraged to bring a partner; there will be discount for partners.Must be current members of USJF, USJA or USA Judo.  Must bring proof of current membership and government issued picture ID.

The purpose is to teach the IJF Kodokan Goshin Jutsu standards. Provide testing for Nanka “C”

level certification. The Nanka “C” level certification will satisfy one of the requirements for

Yodan and above promotions for USJF.

$80.00 per person or $100.00 with partner (both partners must register together). If you wish to

test at the end of the clinic, the testing fee is $20.00 plus $20.00 certification fee per person. The

Testing and Certification fee will be waved for all Nanka Judo Yudanshakai members.

Lunch will be served to all paid participants; $15.00 fee for non-participants who would like to

participate in the clinic lunch program.

In preparation for this clinic, here are a series of instructional and demonstration videos.

Instructional video

Demonstration video

Here is a .pdf file reviewing Goshin Jutsu published by the Kodokan Judo Institute

Next hike

On 8 May, we will hike up Brush Canyon towards the Griffin Park Observatory in the other direction. We had 16 people join us on the Brush Canyon hike to the Hollywood Sign last Sunday. Here are photos from last Sunday’s hike.

Dojo tournament schedule

Extra Seniors Workout, every Saturday @ Hollywood Judo Dojo from 1:00-2:00 pm

Kata practices, Saturday 16 April from 9:30 am-12:00 pm @ Anaconda Academy

USJF/Nanka Referees’ Clinic, Sunday, 24 April from 10:00 am-2:00 pm, given by Gary Takemoto Sensei, @ Anaconda Academy (pending official sanctioning)

First Juniors’ In-House tournament 2022, Friday 29 April, starts with warmups @ 6:00 pm

-This event will be LIVE STREAMED on TWITCH @ https://www.twitch.tv/sawtelle_judo_dojo

Goshin Jutsu Kata practice Saturday, 30 April from 9:30 am-12:00 pm @ Valley Judo Institute

Hollywood Judo Scrimmage III, Sunday 1 May, 12:00 noon-4:00 pm

Next hike, Sunday 8 May, 10:00 am-1:30 pm

Hollywood Judo Scrimmage IV, Sunday 5 June, 12:00 noon-4:00 pm

Golden State Judo Championships, 13-15 May, Northwiew High School, Covina, CA

2022 Senior National Championships, 21-22 May, Daytona Beach, FL

Closed Memorial Day, Monday 29 May

USA Judo Junior Olympics, 24-26 June, San Jose, CA

Sensei Gary’s Birthday Scrimmage, 25 June, Claremont, CA

Closed Fourth of July, Monday 4 July

California State Games Judo Event, 17 July, San Diego, CA

USJF/USJA Summer Nationals, 21-24 July, Fort Lauderdale, FL

USA Judo Open Championships, 24 July, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

US Open Judo Championships, 28-31 July, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Closed Labor Day, Monday 5 September

Dr. Z Memorial Scrimmage, 8 October, Claremont, CA

Closed Thanksgiving Weekend, Thursday 24 November-Sunday 27 November

Last Juniors’ In-House tournament 2022, Friday 20 November, starts with warmups @ 6:00 pm

17th Annual Judo Winter Nationals, 4 December, Azusa, CA

Annual Holiday Awards & Potluck Party, Friday 9 December

Winter Holiday Shutdown, Saturday 10 December-Tuesday 3 January 2023

Dojo 2023 Re-opening, Tuesday 3 January 2023

The growing tournament schedule

As COVID restrictions ease, Judo organizations will be posting their future tournaments. More local tournaments are expected in the coming months. For more information about local, national, and international tournaments, please refer to the Nanka Judo Yudanshakai tournament/event schedule link.

Great things come from hard work and perseverance, no excuses. If you love a thing, you will overcome all difficulties. -Kobe Bryant

“It is not the critic who counts, not the one who points out how the strong man stumbled or how the doer of deeds might have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred with sweat and dust and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause; who, if he wins, knows the triumph of high achievement; and who, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory or defeat.” President Theodore Roosevelt – April 23, 1910

March 17, 2022

The Olds (opposite of the News)

1st JUDO TOURNAMENT for 2022

Ian Zhang, Junior Orange belt, and Maurice Axel Cruz-Morales, Senior Sankyu, competed at today’s Taishi Judo Tournament. This tournament marks the first local Judo tournament held in two years since the outbreak of COVID shutdown Judo activities in March 2020. With the pent-up demand, there was a huge, overflowing turnout of over 600 competitors for this tournament crowded into the packed gymnasium at Westminster High School, Westminster, CA.

The ever hardworking, disciplined, and dedicated, Ian Zhang, won all three of his matches decisively and in short-order taking home a well-deserved Gold medal. Maurice later finished the night with three matches in a highly contested lightweight Brown/Black Belt division.

Thank you to all who supported this mega-marathon event. The tournament ended in the early evening hours this Sunday. Thank you to Hugo Rey, Eduardo Medrano, Patricia Claus, and Adrian Mendoza for assisting at one of the score tables today. Thank you to Osugi Sensei for refereeing. Thank you to Maurice Axel Cruz-Morales for coaching Ian today to victory.

Congratulations to the Taishi Judo Club, and head instructor Rob Oishi, for a very successful tournament. It was the Taishi Judo Club’s 2020 tournament that was canceled just days before their Sunday’s tournament back in 2020. Taishi Judo Club is located Torrance, CA,

Welcome new members to our Juniors’ class

Maurice Chagar

Eowyn Huang-Concannon

Scout Huang-Concannon

August Sone

Quiz of the week-Can you name the 53 Ippons of 2021?

As our 2022 begins, here is an inspirational video compilation of spectacular, lightning quick Judo techniques performed on the International Judo Federation circuit, “Best of Judo in 2021 Motivational Highlights – Royalty (柔道 2021).” Challenge and test yourselves, watch carefully, maybe watch over and over again until you fully understand . Don’t blink as there are 53 techniques in less than just three minutes. Scroll down below for the answers by Osugi Sensei.

Luchia Torro visits again

Last Wednesday, Luchia Torro became Shodan, 1st degree, Black Belt. This past Wednesday, Luchia walked in as a videographer recording for a Sawtelle Judo Dojo commercial which she will also edit and produce.  She has already produced video for Nanka Judo and for climate activism. Could Luchia Torro become a name like Hitchcock, Kubrick, Spielberg, Marshall, Bigelow, Coppola, etc? Here’s the videographer in action.

National Collegiate Judo Championships

Three former Sawtelle Judo Dojo attended the National Collegiate Judo Championships at Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, on Saturday 12 March.

Marisol Torro, Stanford University-Gold

Kohtaroh Uchida, University of Hawaii

Kohsei Imada, Orange Coast College-Gold

This is a FISU World University Games Points Qualifying event. The next FISU World University Games is slated for 8-19 August 2023, in Ekaterina, Russia.

Congratulations to all of them for competing at this event. They are all off to undergraduate and graduate studies. Kohtaroh is pursuing becoming a doctor, Marisol in bioengineering, and Kohsei in aerospace engineering.

Hollywood Judo Dojo Scrimmage- Sunday, 6 March

Yesterday, twelve from competed at the Hollywood Judo Dojo Seniors’ Scrimmage. It was very well run completing all 31 matches in less than one hour before the pizza arrived. So, we had some exhibition matches for anyone who volunteered to get some extra mat time. You can watch the entire scrimmage on Tatami Talk’s TWITCH channel. The competition begins @ 40:00 minutes into the recording. Instead of white and blue belts for scoring, the competitors wore red and white sashes, Kohaku (red/white).

Sawtelle Judo members competing at Hollywood Judo Scrimmage

Emma Chacon Yonkyu (Green)

Miska Kajanus Yonkyu (Green)

George Ishii Ikkyu

Tae Ho Kim Yonkyu (Green)

Miguel Maia Yonkyu (Green)

Brian Selem Sankyu

Dmitriy Karpov Sankyu

Dr. Michael Damavandi Sankyu

Maurice Axel Cruz-Morales Sankyu

Stefano Cossu Sankyu

Harry Morris Yonkyu (Green)

Kevin Watanabe Purple

Thanks to the others who came out to support our members at the scrimmage, Senseis Mike Trelinski, Julius Bhang, Pamela Moye, Yazmin Bojaca, Jerry Hazemoto and Adrian Mendoza. Their next scrimmage will be in June as Hollywood Judo Dojo celebrates its 90th anniversary on 15 May 2022. If you did not already know Hollywood Judo Dojo and Sawtelle Judo Dojo were founded by Tadashi Kikuchi Sensei, in 1932 and 1927, respectively.

Luchia Torro joins the ranks of the Yudansha (Black Belts) WOW!!

Last Wednesday, Luchia Torro was awarded her Shodan, 1st degree, Black Belt from the venerable Osugi Sensei. Starting as a tiny six-year-old, the Stanford-bound, the now seventeen-year-old, is a now budding videographer and climate activist. She literally follows in her older sister’s footsteps, Marisol, competing on the IJF circuit and joining Marisol later this fall at Stanford, too. At such young ages, they are simply “walk on water.”

For class, she demonstrated her Tai Otoshi with Baba Sensei.

“We would like to express our gratitude for all that you have taught Luchia. Judo has instilled in her so many important qualities of perseverance, dedication, and humility. Thank you for being her guide and mentor all these years. We are so proud to be part of Sawtelle Judo Dojo.”-Lori Quon, mother of Luchia Torro-

Like stars, Luchia has journeyed a long way to arrive at this point. The universe is in front of her and at her grasp. She’ll forge her own path from now on.

Mike Trelinski Sensei promoted to Nidan

Also, last Wednesday, Mike Trelinski Sensei officially received his Nidan certificate from Osugi Sensei. He had received months before during our COVID shutdown. While he is not teaching our Adaptive Judo and Seniors’ classes, Trelinski Sensei is a USA Judo Referee and a USJF Instructor. He is also instrumental in developing our tournament application for online registration, pooling, and scoring. He is our resident tech guy. We expect that he will be up to many other things in the future. We are always looking up to him, anyways.

Enter our Dojo-masks are optional

For the time being, we ask for your cooperation as we have our Dojo protocols to insure the health and well-being of our membership.

Following the latest LA Public Health Dept. guidelines, and since we have a vaccinated membership, beginning today Monday 28 February, masks are optional during workouts, in all of our Adaptive, and Seniors’ classes. You may continue to wear your masks if you would like. For our Juniors’ class, we will continue to wear masks until further notice following latest LA Public Health Dept. guidelines and LAUSD school/COVID protocols.

As members and visitors enter our Dojo, as protocol, they will ask the following questions.

Did you read yesterday’s newsletter? If not, they will receive a copy of the following text.

Have you been exposed to anyone who has tested positive for COVID in the last two weeks?

Have you been COVID vaccinated & boosted? When did you receive your booster? Has it been more than five months since you received your initial vaccination shots? If so, get your booster shot, now?

Here is a list of reminders for our members as they return to practice.

As before, we will still follow our standard protocol for our memberships. To enter our Dojo and to either watch, or practice with everyone else, you must be fully vaccinated if they are eligible to be vaccinated. It is for the health and safety of each other.

  • If you do not feel well, have a sore throat, coughing, or sick, just stay home. We regularly exchange sweat with no complaint, but no viruses.
  • Cut your fingernails and toenails short and make them smooth before practice in order to minimize torn nails or cut skin. If you do get cut or get blood on your Judogi, we have hydrogen peroxide to clean the wound or Judogi and band-aids and tape to cover cuts.
  • Clean your hands and feet before you arrive to our Dojo.
  • Bring your surgical or N95 masks, your beach sandals/slippers, change of warm clothes, gym bag and own water with your name on it.
  • Wash your Judogi before each practice. For everyone’s safety, make sure that there are no holes or tears in the jackets (uwagi) or pants (zambon). Do not wash your Judo belt as it will shrink excessively.
  • Please park in the school parking lot. If both sides are full, park as close to the auditorium as possible facing the building like a valet park. If you are blocking any vehicles, they are usually the instructors. If someone needs to leave, we will identify the vehicle to be moved. If you park on the street, use metered parking only, otherwise you may make a generous donation to the City’s parking department. The residential area is permit parking only.
  • Before you bow-in to enter our Dojo, please clean your hands using hand sanitizer on the table and conduct your temperature check. If you have an abnormally high temperature, everyone will know by its alarm. You will be asked to go home.
  • Change into your Judogi in the changing rooms. Wear your Judogi, always tie your Judo belt, wear your mask and slippers and bring down your water bottle downstairs to our mat area.
  • Before you bow onto the mat, leave your water bottle on the small desks near the foot cleaning station. Use the foot cleaning station to clean your feet. There are two parts to this foot cleaning station. The first part is a wet station pad saturated with hand sanitizing solution. Thoroughly wet your feet in it and then step over to the other foot station to dry your feet. From the dry station, bow before stepping onto the mat. The action of bowing is a show of gratitude or thanks.

We want to ensure the safest practice environment as possible for our membership to prevent COVID infections. We are also looking into other preventative measures against COVID-19 infections as well. Wash your Judogi clean, cut and file your finger and toenails smooth and short, and look the part when you return. We will continue to follow the LA County mask mandate until further notice. Everyone entering our Dojo must be fully vaccinated and boosted, when eligible. No exceptions. If you have been with someone that has tested positive for COVID in the last two weeks, please show proof of a negative test. We are on the honor system.

Kodomo no Kata

For our Juniors, please review the first two minutes of this Kodomo no Kata video.

-Dressing yourself

-Tying your belt

-Performing a standing bow (Ritsurei)

-Performing a sitting bow (Zarei)

Planning to join our Dojo

If you plan to register and join our Dojo for Judo practice, complete your online USJF membership and monthly subscription. Bring in your complete and signed Judogi. Arrive 30 minutes before class starts to provide enough time to review your enrollment form and fit you into your new Judogi if you do not already have one. For more information or assistance in enrollment, please contact us at sawtellejudo@gmail.com or 310 463-4962. You are always welcome to visit. However, please show proof of vaccination as all members and visitors must be vaccinated and boosted when eligible.

THE JUDOGI IS IMPORTANT
“The way one takes care of how one looks and dresses in daily life, the same care and attention are required when we put on a judogi to practice judo, whether it’s for physical exercise, randori, or in a competition.”
“At every moment it’s important to be as flawless as possible.” “Whenever a randori ends, before greeting and thanking the partner, and as a sign of respect to him or her, we must ensure that the judogi and belt are in order.”
“This habit allows us to be ready to greet our next companion in a proper way.”
-Maestro Hiroshi Katanishi – 8th DAN- during Tre Torri International Judo Summer Camp.

Kodokan Judo YouTube Channel videos

For your reference, here is the link for the Kodokan Judo YouTube Channel with a large assortment of Judo demonstration videos. Learn to associate the names of each technique with the actual execution of each technique.

The answer to this week’s Judo “53 Ippons of 2021”

Below are the answers to the 53 Ippons demonstrated on the YouTube video.

  1. Hiza Guruma
  2. Uchimata
  3. Soto Gaeshi/O Soto Gari
  4. Uki Goshi/O Goshi
  5. Harai Tsurikomi Ashi
  6. Kata Guruma
  7. Ippon Seoi Nage
  8. Ko Soto Gake
  9. Yoko Tomoe Nage
  10. Obi Tori Gaeshi
  11. Sode Tsurikomi Goshi
  12. Uchimata
  13. De Ashi Barai
  14. Utsuri Goshi
  15. Okuri Eri Jime (Bow & arrow choke)
  16. Yoko Tomoe Nage to Juji Gatame
  17. Ura Nage
  18. Ko Uchi Gari to Ko Uchi Gake
  19. Sode Tsurikomi Goshi
  20. Seoi Otoshi
  21. Uchi Gari entry to Uchimata
  22. Soto Gaeshi
  23. Tomoe Nage
  24. Ashi Guruma
  25. Uchimata
  26. Ko Uchi Gari to De Ashi Barai
  27. Ashi Guruma
  28. O Soto Gari to Tani Otoshi
  29. Yoko Otoshi/Tani Otoshi
  30. Utsuri Goshi
  31. O Soto Gari
  32. Ura Nage
  33. De Ashi Barai
  34. Ko Uchi Gake
  35. O Soto Gaeshi
  36. O Uchi Gari
  37. Ura Nage
  38. Ippon Seoi Nage..Tani Otoshi
  39. Ippon Seoi Nage
  40. Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi
  41. Tsurikomi Goshi
  42. Soto Makikomi
  43. De Ashi Barai
  44. Ko Soto Gari
  45. Uchimata
  46. Uki Goshi-Utsuri Goshi or Ko Tsuri Goshi
  47. Yagura Nage
  48. O Soto Gari
  49. O Uchi Gari
  50. Nidan Ko Soto Gari
  51. Seoi Nage (Kata Eri Seoi Nage)
  52. Ko Soto Gari
  53. O Goshi