This quarter has been an extraordinary milestone for the UCLA Judo Club, as our practice sessions have grown to a historic high, with over 20 participants regularly joining us on the mat. This achievement underscores the vibrancy and inclusivity of our club, made possible by the dedicated efforts of our officers who skillfully recruited both beginners and seasoned judokas during the fall activities fair. Their enthusiasm and hard work have truly strengthened our community.
We are also thrilled to welcome a new addition to our coaching team this quarter—Assistant Coach Marti. Her willingness to volunteer and share her expertise is a tremendous asset to our club, and we deeply appreciate her dedication to fostering our growth and skill development. Under her guidance, we continue to uphold the spirit of judo as a discipline that emphasizes mutual respect, continuous improvement, and personal growth
This quarter, our training has centered on fundamental hip throws, including Hane-Goshi. For beginners, these techniques are essential to building a strong foundation in judo, while for advanced judokas, revisiting the basics is invaluable for refining techniques and addressing subtleties that enhance performance. This deliberate and long-term approach to practice exemplifies the core principles of judo: precision, perseverance, and perfection.
As the year draws to a close, we also take a moment to celebrate the legacy of our graduating former president, Jacob Lee. During his tenure, Jacob not only guided us through enriching practices and exciting competitions but also fostered a sense of camaraderie that extended beyond the dojo. His leadership saw many of us competing formally for the first time, and his thoughtful touches—like post-competition feasts of Korean fried chicken—created memories that will remain a cherished part of the UCLA Judo Club's history. We are profoundly grateful for Jacob's contributions, which have left an indelible mark on our community.
Looking ahead, we carry the momentum of this remarkable quarter into the next, with a renewed commitment to excellence, fellowship, and the enduring values of judo. Here's to a promising future for the UCLA Judo Club!
