Tucson Dojo

Judo is a martial art that was born in Japan, and it is now known around the world as an Olympic sport. Judo was created in 1882 by combining jujutsu, a form of close combat, with elements of mental discipline. The roots of jujutsu lie in sumo. Sumo has a very long history and is even mentioned in the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters) from the year 712.

Judo is one of the most practiced sport in the world. Judo is typically in the top 5 sports in terms of the number of participating nations in the Summer Olympics. While the number of participating nations may vary slightly from one Olympics to another, judo is consistently among the most widely represented sports at the Games. While athletics, aquatics, gymnastics, and boxing are also popular and widely represented, judo consistently ranks among the top 5 sports in terms of global participation. This level of global representation underscores the widespread practice and appreciation of judo across the world.

Judo traces its roots back to the samurai era in Japan, when jujutsu was developed as a close-quarters combat technique. During the Meiji Restoration, Kano Jigoro, the founder of modern judo, combined the best elements of various jujutsu styles into a new school. In 1882, at the age of 21, he established judo as we know it today. Despite starting with just nine students in a small practice hall, Kano's vision and dedication led to the global spread of judo.

Kano's efforts to promote judo internationally were realized when it was recognized as an official Olympic event at the Tokyo Olympics in 1964. Women's judo was introduced as a demonstration event in 1988 and became an official Olympic event in 1992.

As of March 2021, the International Judo Federation has 204 member countries and regions, showcasing the global reach and participation in judo. Kano's dream of the "internationalization of judo" has become a reality, thanks to his tireless efforts and the continued dedication of judo practitioners worldwide.

Youth Program (5 - 17)

Tuesdays: 5:30pm - 6:30pm

Thursdays: 5:30pm - 6:30pm

Advance and Competition Youth Program (5 - 17, competitors and advance students only)

Mondays: 4:30pm - 6:30pm

Tuesdays: 4:30pm - 5:15pm

Thursdays: 4:30pm - 5:15pm

Adults

Mondays: 7pm

Tuesdays: 7pm

Thursdays: 7pm

Combined Classes

Saturdays: 9am

Wrestling
Saturdays: 11am

In 1972 there were over twenty Judo dojos throughout Southern Arizona. Many of those dojos were taught by brown belt judokas. To improve our Judo knowledge and competitive skills we began to study and train together. This provides a larger class structure, with more participants having access to more advanced black belt instructors.

To honor that commitment and to compete successfully for team championships, it was unanimously agreed that each Judoka would represent his dojo/sensei but would compete as a combined team under “Tucson Dojos”.

In 1980 the Judo dojos had been reduced to a smaller group with Sensei Owen teaching at most of these dojos. After the restructuring, it was decided to change the name to “Tucson Dojo."

A Journey Greetings, I'm Michael Tim Sumner, and my journey with judo spans over four decades. Beginning my training under the esteemed guidance of Sensei’s Ken Carson and Steve Owen at Rendokan Dojo and Tucson Dojo in 1978, I've since dedicated myself to learning the art and science of judo. 

Transitioning from student to sensei, I've had the privilege of imparting my knowledge and experience to others since 2004. Serving as an instructor for both adult and children's classes at Tucson Dojo since 2001 and 2004 respectively, I've found immense fulfillment in nurturing the next generation of judokas. 

In 2018, I collaborated with Higher Ground to introduce judo into the curriculum of the Tucson Unified School District. This initiative aimed not only to teach judo techniques but also to instill important life skills such as resilience and emotional and behavioral intelligence. 

My coaching journey began in 2004, where I've had the pleasure of coaching athletes at local, regional, and national tournaments. Additionally, I've organized developmental tournaments to provide opportunities for newcomers to hone their skills and for coaches to refine their craft. 

At Tucson Dojo, inclusivity is paramount. We offer free classes to children and adults, providing a welcoming environment for individuals from all walks of life. Witnessing the transformation of students, particularly those from marginalized communities, has been profoundly rewarding.

In essence, judo is more than just a martial art to me; it's a philosophy and a way of life. My aim as a sensei is to not only teach the technical aspects of judo but also to foster personal growth and resilience in my students. Together, we continue to uphold the rich tradition and values of judo, while embracing the journey of self-discovery and lifelong learning.

Contact tucsondojomts@gmail.com or call Sensei Michael Sumner at 520 460 6236

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