MOOSE JAW — If you’re interested in trying a new sport or perhaps have some experience with the martial arts, the Moose Jaw Koseikan Judo Club is inviting athletes of all ages onto the tatami to learn the art of Judo as fall registration begins this month.
Classes begin on Monday, Sept. 9, but applicants are welcome to attend the next available night.
“Our registration time is open now,” confirmed Jim Wiens, one of the club’s seven senseitachi (teachers). “(We welcome you if) you’re interested in coming and giving Judo a try, whether it’s the first time or for athletes who have been with us for a while.”
The club’s dojo (gym or training hall) is utilized by a wide range of athletes, classes, and hosts the provincial Judo team during its monthly training. As of 2023-2024, the club has around 70 members.
Judo originates with the instruction of Japanese founder Kano Jigoro in 1882. Translated as “the gentle way,” the art is based around two leading principles: the good use of energy and mutual benefit.
“We strike the balance between the legacy of Jigoro… and all the teachings that go with it — about being a responsible citizen, (integrating) yourself with society (so) everybody benefits… then also the sport side, where there’s lots of training,” Wiens explained.
Judo teaches camaraderie but also the benefit of independence and personal effort. One leading principle is that, with proper technique, balance, and discipline, a smaller athlete can overcome a much larger opponent.
Classes typically run for 90 minutes and begin with stretching and a warmup.
“With Judo, the way to win matches is to have your opponent grab onto them and flip them to the ground on their backs,” Wiens explained. “So, there’s lots of (training that covers) how to take those falls, (and) how to be able to take the impact of being thrown down.”
From here, new techniques are introduced and existing ones are reviewed. Newaza (ground techniques) include holds, pinning an opponent, and submitting an opponent.
New applicants start with the basic techniques of pins, soft shoulder throws, and falls to get a quick taste of the sport and to learn if it’s right for them.
Several instructors are provincial and international champions who offer guidance for aspiring athletes wishing to compete on a national level. Included is Destiny Biehl — who will compete in the Veteran Master’s Championship in Las Vegas this November — and Ralph Ibanez — the off-and-on reigning world champion.
“From there, (anyone interested) in going on to a western Canadian or national championship (can easily do so because) we’re… affiliated with Judo Saskatchewan and Judo Canada,” Wiens said. For anyone with Olympic dreams, the club is also affiliated with the International Judo Federation.
Everyone’s invited to give Judo a try and all you’ll need to bring for the first night is a pair of sweatpants and a shirt you don’t mind potentially tearing up a bit.
“Don’t hesitate; come on down and check the club out,” Wiens announced. “See what the place looks like, and… (you’re welcome to) give it a try and we’re sure you’re going to have a lot of fun.”
Novice athletes attend classes on Mondays and Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. Intermediate classes follow on the same nights starting at 7 p.m.
On Tuesdays and Thursdays, advanced-level training — for athletes aspiring to become provincial and national champions — commences at 5:30 p.m.
To register, simply visit MJJudo.com/Registration.html.
The Moose Jaw Koseikan Judo Club is located at 801 Hochelaga Street East and can be reached at 306-691-0051. For more information and weekend adult class options visit MJJudo.com.
