Getting Started


New and prospective students:

Please email: newmember@gardenajudo.org with:

Complete Name
Birthdate
Parent's Names (if under 18)
Contact Email Address
Contact Telephone Number
Address
Prior Judo Experience (if any)


How do I get my child started?

Novice classes are formed in January and June.

To be put on the waiting list, please complete a signup form and email us with the information above and return it to us.

I want to join. What do I need to do?

For new adult students (Over 18 years old), please come to the Dojo to sign up and talk to the Senseis and club members. You will need to complete the GJC Registration form, the Liability Waiver, and the USJF membership/application.

For children, we will notify the parent on the waiting list when the next novice class is starting. Please read the Orientation pamphlet. Read, complete and sign the registration form, waiver form and USJF application* and submit with the appropriate payment on your first day of class (or as directed).

*If you submit a copy of student's birth certificate, the USJF card will have a "V" next to the birthdate. This will indicate that the birthdate has been validated. Some tournaments require proof of age. so this can be used in lieu of providing the copy of the birth certificate at each event.

Attendance guidelines:

  • Yonen classes begin promptly at 6:30 pm and Shonen/Seinen/Adult classes at 7:45 pm. It is the students' responsibility to check-in with the Attendance Officer prior to the start of class. Also, student must be on the mat participating to be counted.
  • In consideration of the other members, please stay home and rest if the student is ill.
  • A parent or legally responsible person must remain at the Dojo during class for students who are minors.

How are promotions to higher ranks determined?


Novice students start as a white belt. Upon successful completion of the 6 month class, the yellow belt will be awarded. Future promotions are based on time-in-grade and technical knowledge. Time-in-grade between promotions can be reduced based on competition points earned. Technical proficiency is based on the student demonstrating his or her ability to perform techniques. All promotions are subject to the sensei's judgment as to the judoka's ability to enter a higher rank. Click here for additional promotion information.


How do you determine technical knowledge?


Periodically (as needed) students will be tested and must demonstrate the techniques required for the next belt ranking. There will be training for students preparing for the test. However, it is the responsibility of the student to learn the techniques as outlined in the Promotion Guide. When ready, submit a Test Application form to the sensei.


How are competition points earned?



Points are earned for entering outside tournaments (shiai). Additional points can be earned for winning matches. It is the responsibility of the parent to complete a Tournament Record form and submit it to the Club's Tournament Director.


What should I expect at a tournament?

Generally, registration forms can be found at the sponsoring dojo's website or the Nanka website. Pre-registering will usually save you a little money. If we are not able to perform weigh-ins at our practice (the Thursday before the tournament), please plan on getting to the tournament early for weigh-ins.
Tournament tips from veteran club parents:
  • Try to have a nice meal and a good nights rest before a tournament.
  • Remember to bring current USJF card if registering tournament day.
  • After weigh-ins, it may be 1 to 2 hours until the tournament starts, bring something to eat to keep their energy up.
  • Make sure they go to the bathroom before they are called for their match.
  • Fingernails and toenails should be neatly trimmed.
  • Gi should be clean and fit properly. Click here for additional gi fitting information.
  • Put your name on your belt. (Many tournaments ask that you bring your own blue & white tournament belts.)
  • No jewelry or metal of any kind should be worn.
  • Long hair should be worn up with hair bands.
  • The kids may bring water only to the mat in case they get thirsty.
  • No horseplay on the mat while waiting for your match.
  • Know who's coaching your mat and let them know if you are having trouble hearing them.