Testudo BJJ•Judo

The other day a man brought his son to the school for an orientation. When we finished, the father asked, "In one word, how would you describe your school."  Though I think I was successful in giving an idea of our grappling and training philosophy, I think I failed in doing it in one word.  So, Sir (if you see this), I would like to try to do it here while providing more context for my answer.

The picture above is my poor attempt to write the kanji of one Jigoro Kano's (founder of Judo) principles of Judo: Jita Kyoei.  Though often translated as "Mutual Benefit",  I find the direct translation to be more poetic and therefore closer to the truth, ("self-and-others-together-flourishing").  The principle (like all great principles) guides the practitioner not only in the physical aspects of training (i.e. a give and take, combined with an intention to avoid injuring training partners) but also as a guide to one's social life (i.e. helping others). 

For me, what this principle means is also how I would describe my school in one word......Community.

My college wrestling coach, Paul Cotton, and Justice Sotomayor. Right before teaching a class today, my friend told me he had just passed away. Had to "gameface" really hard to finish the class. HU Wrestling season, 6am, walking from New Jersey Ave to Burr Gym (hoping not to get mugged) for practice. Good times...

Me: Young man...what is your plan?

We tell our kids...Every practice. Every match. Set a goal. Make a plan. Then take it beyond the mat--school, family, life. Test discipline, focus, and growth.