Richard Weiner, a Sandan, has been the
head sensei at the Santa Clarita Valley Judo Club for over 10
years and began working out with the club over 15 years ago.
Sensei Richard has been practicing and playing Judo since
1966 and competed for many years in the sport of Judo, winning
many tournaments and championships. Sensei, Neal Hettinger also
a Sandan, has been practicing judo since 1973 and has won many
tournaments and championships as well. Sensei Bob Yamasaki, a
Nidan, having played judo off and on since the mid 1960’s
has won many tournaments such as California State Championship
and teaches based upon that experience as well as his
proficiency at ju-jitsu as an instructor.
While the sensei believe in the
competition part of judo, they also believe in the fun side.
Being fathers, they understand the importance of boys and
girls gaining confidence in themselves and their ability to
control their bodies. “I can’t” is only
a momentary thought in judo class – soon judokas learn
“I can”.
Judokas’ ages in class range from 7
years old up to 55 years young. While many of the judokas
compete, some use the judo class as a way to practice
self-defense, get in shape and keep fit.
