Certified Instructors
There are many outstanding instructors affiliated with Jujitsu America.
This page will hopefully grow to include more JA Professors, Black Belt Life Members, School Heads, National Convention Instructors and other known JA personalities.
Click on the name of the Instructor to read their bios or scroll down to see them all!!
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Professor Carl Beaver – Founder (Deceased)
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Carl P. Beaver came to Hawaii in 1939 and was first introduced to the Okazaki jujitsu system in 1940 by someone known only as "Corporal Wyatt." Although he learned only the basics of the system at that time, and World War Two caused a disruption of his training, it is clear that the young Mr. Beaver was hooked.
After his discharge in 1945, Beaver came back to Hawaii and began the study of Kodokan judo at the Nuuano YMCA under Sensei Yamamoto. After joining the Mano YMCA, he studied jujitsu under Sensei Dick McCarty, an Okazaki student, and obtained his Shodan, which was presented by Prof. Okazaki himself. Beaver continued with his jujitsu training under Prof. Okazaki and his senior student, Wally Jay, and gained further experience through Sensei Richard Takemoto.
In 1948, Beaver began an intensive study of massage under both Sensei McCarty and Prof. Okazaki in preparation for his Territorial massage license. He graduated from the Okazaki school of Restorative Massage in January, 1949 and, with his wife, Martha, obtained Territorial licenses.
It was during this time that Beaver lived with Professor Okazaki at the Professor's home. Some of Prof. Beaver's fondest memories and best "war stories" were from this time.
In 1950, Beaver moved to the Mainland and began teaching jujitsu at the Dayton Health Studio in Dayton, Ohio. In 1951, he moved to California and began teaching jujitsu in Gardena. 18 months later, he moved to Bellflower, California, teaching two classes a week for the next three decades.
In 1961, Beaver received his Sandan from Sensei Wally Jay. In 1967, he received his Godan from Sensei Joe Holck, the American Jujitsu Institute's Regional Chairman at that time. In 1972, Beaver received his Rokudan and, thereafter, his Shichidan from the A.J.I. in 1976. In 1977, he was promoted to 8th Degree Black Belt and to Ninth Degree Black Belt by Jujitsu America. After coming out of retirement in 1988, he assumed the position of Technical Director for Shoshin Ryu Yudanshakai. In 1990, he was elevated to Judan by both Shoshin Ryu Yudanshakai and the American Jujitsu Institute.
Professor Beaver's recognitions include commendations from the Governors of the State of Hawaii and State of Arizona, Orange County Board of Supervisors, California State Assembly, received a commendation from the Mohave County Board of Supervisors in 1988. He was inducted into the Danzan Ryu Jujitsu Hall of Fame in 1992, and received the Luciani Service Award in 1994. He was elevated to Godan in 1992 by the United States Judo Association. He was inducted into Jujitsu America's Black Belt Hall of Fame in 1979, and received Jujitsu America's Patriarch Award in 1996.
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Professor Willy Cahill – Founder
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Prof. Willy Cahill is one of the Founders, past President, and Technical Director of Jujitsu America. He serves for the US Judo Association's Jujitsu program on the Jujitsu Executive Committee and Standards Board. He holds 10th Dan in Jujitsu and 8th Dan in Judo. Besides running his own dojo, Cahill's Judo Academy, in San Bruno, CA, which celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2008, he coached the U.S. Olympic Judo Teams in 1984 and 1988, the World Team five times, the Pan American Team twice and the Goodwill Games twice. Since 1963, Cahill's Judo Academy has produced over 1000 national and international medal winners, and four Olympic and Paralympic coaches. Coach Cahill was the judo coach at both San Francisco State University and Stanford University. He was head coach of the Paralympic Judo Team that traveled to Sydney, Australia in November, 2000 and brought back the first Gold Medals ever won by the U.S. in Paralympic or Olympic judo competition. The team was ranked #1 in the world in 2000.
In 1997, Prof. Cahill started The World of Martial Arts Supplies, a company dealing with martial arts supplies as well as nutritional products, with the majority of his business online at his website. He has developed a set of 3 instructional videos that demonstrate Judo Training, as well as a 6-volume video set demonstrating the arts of Kodenkan Jujitsu. He has also designed a line of judo and jujitsu uniforms for Tiger Claw.
Prof. Cahill is honored to work closely with his student Eric Renner to present Sport Jujitsu Tournaments and events several times a year, culminating with the annual Jujitsu America Sport Jujitsu US National Championship Tournament. These tournaments and events are presented in longtime partnership with Tiger Claw.
Prof. Cahill has received numerous awards, including being named to Black Belt Magazine's Black Belt Hall of Fame as Judo Coach of the Year, JA's Instructor of the Year in 1979, inducted in 1981 to JA's Black Belt Hall of Fame, was the 1997 recipient of JA's Wally Jay Award, and recognized in 2006 with JA's Patriarch Award.
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Professor John Chow-Hoon – Founder (Deceased)
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Born March 5, 1927 in Kipahulu, Maui, Hawaii, the youngest of 13 children born to Hoon Chow and his mother Lily Malualani Kiha. Professor John (Ah Chin) Chow-Hoon got his first taste of the martial arts after his family moved to the island of Oahu, to a house on Queen St. in the town of Kakaako, close to a Japanese school. This school offered judo and kendo to any student who was interested.
Every chance he got he would watch those classes and became more and more interested with the martial arts. Finally, a friend and school mate asked him to join in. Being small for his age, he was placed in the judo class. His instructor at that time was Yukiso Yamamoto. Eventually, they both heard about Prof Henry S. Okazaki’s dojo, where they would train on Saturday mornings. The rest of the time he was sent to train at the Kaheka dojo under the supervision of Bing Fai Lau and Sig Kufferath.
Along with regular classes, Prof. Chow-Hoon was sent to study long-life massage at Prof. Okazaki’s Nikko Sanitarium. There were several people he admired that were skilled in long-life massage: people like John Cahill, Jerry Turatani, Moses Pang, Bill Costa, Boyd Andretti and others.
While studying Danzan Ryu Jujitsu at the Kaheka lane dojo, Prof. Chow-Hoon was also studying the art of Koshoryu Kenpo with his brothers William and Frank. When his brother Prof. William (Kwai Sun) Chow graduated from James Mitose’ school of Kenpo Jujitsu, he opened his dojo at the Chow home. When Prof. Chow-Hoon’s father left Hawaii to go back to China, Prof. Chow took everything out of the house and knocked down a couple of the walls, including a piano shop next door in order to transform their home into a regular dojo. William would later open up schools on Young Street, at the Kapahulu Japanese school and later on at the Nuuanu YMCA.
Prof. Chow-Hoon received his shodan in Kenpo in 1943 along with Prof. Simeon Eli and several others. In attendance at his promotion were his friends Charlie (Prof. Toru Tanaka) Kalani and Arthur Lyman both of whom would later become famous in the entertainment business.
Many good students came out of the Kenpo school at the Nuuanu YMCA, Bill Chun, Manuel Dela Cruz, Paul Yamaguchi, Bobby Lowe, Harry Pang, Boyd Andretti, Woodrow Mckandless, the Emperado brothers Joe and Adriano (Adriano would latter on with others form an eclectic form of self-defense called Kajukenbo), Ed Parker (Parker would latter bring Kenpo Karate to the mainland) “brother” Abe Kamahoahoa, Ralph Castro and many others.
Prof. Chow-Hoon received his shodan from Prof. Okazaki in 1945, the day before he was inducted into the U.S. Army. After entering the military in 1945, Prof. Chow-Hoon was assigned to camp Roberts, Calif. For basic training, from camp Roberts he was sent to the Philippine Islands.
While in the orient, the Prof. used to moon-light as a professional wrestler. He ran across many of the top wrestlers of the day including the “Masked Marvel”, who was the father of Dave Castoldi, a well-known martial artist from the Boston area.
Prof. Chow-Hoon returned to Hawaii and was assigned to the Military Police Division. He was selected to become the instructor at the Military Police School for Self-Defense. Besides the military police he also trained the police for the Hawaiian National Guard, several members of the Honolulu Police Dept. and also members of the F.B.I. Next, Prof. Chow-Hoon spent a tour of duty in Korea where he worked out with Yudo (Judo) and Tang So Do clubs.
Once again Prof. Chow-Hoon returned home to Hawaii. While there he would train at the Kaheka Lane club, which was one of Prof. Okazaki’s many clubs teaching the Danzan Ryu system. Some of the individuals who came out of this club were people like John Kaneakua, Joe Holck, Sam and Bill Prestridge, Michael Chong and Sam Luke Sr.
During the middle of the 50′s, Prof. Chow-Hoon along with Prof. Francisco Limbago taught at Schofield barracks, Hawaii where he was selected as one of the Judo coaches representing Hawaii. This team took 1st place at all military games. His heavyweights were Prof. Toru Tanaka and Larry Price. Price would later go on to become the football coach at the University of Hawaii.
During this period the military used to have an “All Army Show”, a kind of talent show. Prof. Ramon Ancho was selected as the best of the show. He would perform “Board Breaking” using multiple boards using his fingers. During one of these shows Prof. Chow-Hoon and Prof. Limbago pulled a trick on Prof. Ancho. Prior to his portion of the show, both the Prof’s wet a couple of the boards without telling Prof. Ancho. He had to hit the boards more than a couple of times in order to break them. He knew they had pulled a trick on him for they both had a great big smile on their face.
Prof. Chow-Hoon got stationed in Japan, where he was able to train at the Kodokan. Out of respect he started out as a white belt, but by the time he left Japan in 1962 he was ranked as a sandan (3rd degree black belt).
At the end of 1962 Prof. Chow-Hoon was stationed at the Fort Ord in California as a drill sergeant. This is when he first started to teach in the Monterey area. He ran across another Okazaki student Prof. Toru Tanaka. Whenever Prof. Tanaka would leave to go off to wrestle, Prof. Chow-Hoon would help out and run the class. And when he could not be there due to military obligations Cal Avila and Joe Takayama would stand in.
In 1964, Prof. Chow-Hoon was transferred to Alaska but still managed to work out and teach in anchorage. In 1965 he was assigned to Viet Nam. There he taught martial arts at the police station in Tien Nin.
Prof. Chow-Hoon retired from the military after over 20 years of service. He decided to settle on the Monterey Peninsula in the city of Pacific Grove, after retiring from the Army. Prof. Chow-Hoon worked as a P.E. teacher at the Del Mar elementary school in Marina, California. It was here that Prof. Chow-Hoon was approached by Mr. Art Clark to teach the martial arts in the community of Marina. Prof. Chow-Hoon taught at three elementary schools until 1968 when the gym at Los Arboles School was built, and then he combined the three clubs into one big class. Then in 1973, he started yet another club at the Pacific Grove High School, where he acted as Sensei and Advisor for his remaining years.
Back in 1978 Professor Chow-Hoon was one of the leaders instrumental in founding the organization of Jujitsu America for which he was very proud. It was an organization such as his own life, one of Kokua and Ohana. Everyone who walked the path of the martial arts with Professor experienced real joy of celebration and excitement in learning from this most gifted man.
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Professor Wally Jay – Founder (Deceased)
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Prof. Wally Jay, founder and grandmaster of Jujitsu America and Small Circle Jujitsu International, held a 10th Dan in Jujitsu and a 6th Dan in Judo. He traveled all over the world promoting Kodenkan Jujitsu and Small Circle Jujitsu. Prof. Jay was one of the first of Prof. Henry Okazaki's pupils to advocate cross training. He served as Technical Director of Jujitsu America for 30 years and was Technical Director Emeritus.
Prof. Jay held an Honorary Doctor of Science Degree from the College of Martial Arts, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was a graduate of the Nikko Restoration Massage Institute in Honolulu, Hawaii, and was listed in Who's Who in Martial Arts in 1977 and 1985. He was named by the Northern California Judo Black Belt Association as "Judo Coach of the Year" in 1960, was Black Belt Hall of Fame's "Man of the Year" in 1960 and their Jujitsu Instructor of the Year in 1969, and was named by Inside Kung Fu magazine as "One of the Most Influential Martial Artists of All Times."
He served as Team Captain of the U.S. Martial Arts Team that traveled to China in 1985, demonstrated at the First International Wu Shu Championships in Xian, China, and had the honor of demonstrating at the Dai Nippon Butokukai Festival on Emperor's Day in Kyoto, Japan. He appeared on CNN when he demonstrated in South Africa for the Bophuthatswana Government in 1992. Prof. Jay's judo players were one of the "winningest teams" in the late 1950s and early 1960s, which led to him being voted as Hokka Judo Yudanshakai Judo Coach of 1960. In 1960 his team captured the Mexican Judo Championships in Mexico City, and in 1963-64 the American Jujitsu Institute awarded him Outstanding Coach of the Year. He produced many medalists in national judo championships, such as Bradford Burgo and David Quinonez, who won national high school titles in 1968 and 1970 respectively. Prof. Jay authored two books, Small Circle Jujitsu and Dynamic Jujitsu, as well as five instructional videos. His dojo, Island Judo/Jujitsu Club, was located in Alameda, California.
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Professor Rudy Aguilar
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Professor Rudolph Aguilar (Rudy) is an 8th Dan in Kodenkan Jujitsu, 2nd Dan in Kodokan Judo and has been a student in Martial Arts since 1965 with Sensei Richard and Jane Travers with the Logan Judo Club, James Logan in Union City and the Mission Judo Club in Fremont, CA. Served in the US Army from 1968 to 1971 and Served in Vietnam. After service became Head Instructor of the Mission Judo club with Jack Mendonca. In 1973 the Mission Judo club joined up with Sensei Frank Sisk and Sensei Mike Gamberg. Forming the Newark Judo Club. He coached the Newark Judo team and in 1974 became Head Instructor of the Newark Judo Club. In 1986 the Newark Judo Club changed its name to Newark Judo-Jujitsu Club and he has been head instructor of the club since that time.
League of Volunteer Newark
Community Instruction at L.O.V. Newark Facility from 1983 to 2006
Bee Real
Children's Safety Program from 1989 to 1996
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Professor Lawrence Boydston
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JA 8D, Instructor, Professor.
QUEST ACADEMY: Senior Teacher
MA Bio: Danzan Ryu “Hawaiian” Jujitsu: 8D (JA/Kilohana/AJA), [1968-];
Quest Martial Science: Senior Teacher,
Jun Fan & Filipino MA: Senior (DanInosanto),
Within Arms’ Reach: 5D (Cliff Stewart),
Kodokan Judo: 2D (USJA), & BKF Kenpo: 1D (Robert Temple).
Studies: Atemi, Seifukujutsu, Small Circle Jujitsu, Escrima/Silat,
Muay Thai, BF-Savate, & MA: Biology/PE
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| Professor Richard Bunch |
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Prof. Richard Bunch's training in Kodenkan Danzan Ryu Jujitsu began in early childhood. His first instructors were Prof. Bill Montero, Sensei Glen Castleo, and Prof. Ray Law. Later, at the age of 14, he began training with Prof. Sig Kufferath. Shortly afterward, in 1969, he received his Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt) from Prof. Kufferath. In 1971, Prof. Kufferath honored Prof. Bunch by recognizing him as his associate instructor, and later as chief instructor of the school. Over the course of 28 years, Prof. Bunch engaged in constant training and study with Prof. Kufferath at Nikko Jujitsu School. Prof. Kufferath awarded Prof. Bunch with the rank of Shichidan (7th Degree Black Belt) in Kodenkan Danzan Ryu Jujitsu. Since then, Jujitsu America has promoted Prof. Bunch to the rank of Hachidan (8th Degree Black Belt).
Over the years, Prof. Bunch has been fortunate to study with numerous masters of various martial arts and highly respected elder practitioners of Kodenkan Danzan Ryu Jujitsu who studied directly under Prof. Okazaki. This has provided him with a broad perspective of various personal interpretations of this style.
In addition, he has studied many other martial arts including the art of the Japanese sword, as well as other Japanese weaponry and armor. Prof. Bunch's reputation as both an extremely skillful martial artist and a scholar makes him a highly sought after instructor nationally and internationally. He actively teaches seminars on Jujitsu throughout North America, South America, Europe, and Asia.
Prof. Bunch received the 1989 Instructor of the Year award from Jujitsu America.
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Professor Dave Castoldi
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Professor Castoldi has over 50 years experience in a wide range of styles including, jujitsu, judo, kung fu, professional wrestling, and bare knuckles street fighting. He holds a 7th degree in jujitsu, a 1st degree in Karate, and a 3rd degree in judo. His instructors include Albert J. Castoldi, John Hogan, Master Win Chil Wu,O Sensei Phil Porter and Professor Wally Jay. He teaches at his club in Arlington, Ma. www.castoldijujitsu.com
10th degree Grand Master of CASTOLDI'S STREET SELF DEFENSE
9th degree black belt Jujitsu America
7th degree black belt Small Circle Jujitsu
5th degree black belt Judo
Regional Director for Jujitsu America:
Northeast U.S., Florida and Gulf Coast
1964-Began training with father, Al Castoldi, 5th Dan, the first American to bring Jujitsu to the New England area (circa 1945).
1974-Founded West Suburban YMCA Jujitsu School
1978-Formed Association with Professor Wally Jay 10th Dan and founder of Small Circle Jujitsu began study and instruction of Small Circle Theory, integrating its painful effectiveness into his own unique system of practical, no-nonsense street self-defense.
1983-Jujitsu America-Instructor of The Year
1988-Jujitsu America-Black Belt Hall of Fame
1991-World Martial Arts Hall of Fame
1991-Jujitsu America-Outstanding Ambassador Award
1991-Zen Do Kai Hall Of Fame
1998-Inducted by Shihan Rocky DiRico into International Black Belt Hall Of Fame
1998- AWARDED PROFESSORSHIP BY JUJITSU AMERICA
1998-Reciepient of flag flown over the capitol in Honor of Jujitsu America
2002-Jujitsu America-Wally Jay Award
2004-Jujitsu America-Spirit of Kodenkan Memorial Award-In Memory of Professor John Chow Hoon
2005-Jujitsu America-Distinguished Service Presidential Award
2005-Inducted into the WWKO-World Wide Karate Organization Hall of Fame
Professor Castoldi specializes in street weapon defense techniques and has produced two internationally marketed instructional videotapes. DEFENSE AGAINST KNIFE ATTACKS I+II.
He has been invited as a guest instructor for 18 consecutive years to the ANNUAL
JUJISTU AMERICA NATIONAL CONVENTION.
Professor Castoldi is an instructor to numerous law enforcement and correctional officers
Including local and state police, FBI, U.S. Marshall, U.S. secret service and military police
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Professor Joe DeBattista
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Bio is forthcoming
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Professor Lee Eichelberger (Deceased)
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Professor Lee Eichelberger was a 10th degree black belt in Kodenkan Jujitsu and was a Past President of Jujitsu America. He was one of the founding members, a life member, served on the Board of Representatives and various committees for Jujitsu America. He was a recipient of Jujitsu America's Instructor of the Year Award and its Black Belt Hall of Fame Award. He was also a 9th degree black belt and Professor in Small Circle Jujitsu™ a Jujitsu system created and founded by Professor and Grandmaster Wally Jay. Professor Eichelberger had been the senior student of Professor Jay for many years.
Professor Eichelberger had been involved in Jujitsu for over 40 years, as both a continuing student and instructor of Jujitsu in both Small Circle Jujitsu and Kodenkan Jujitsu. He founded and taught at the Alameda Small Circle Jujitsu Club, in Alameda, California. In addition he has taught at many conventions and clinics and at other invited dojos and locations, including camps in Hawaii, Boston, Indiana and California. He enjoyed teaching self-defense to students at all levels. His training and teaching included the small circle theory and its many applications and he had a special interest in many Kodenkan Kata forms, both older and modern interpretations. (Bio Date 10/8/18)
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Professor David Jennings
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Professor David Jennings began his martial arts career as a judo student at Cahill's Judo Academy in San Bruno, California in 1965. Five years later Cahill's began jujitsu classes. David found that this discipline suited his primary interest which was self-defense. He progressed rapidly in jujitsu earning his black belt at the age of 18. David continues his association with Cahill's by sharing the teaching duties of jujitsu classes twice a week. Often times David has been the beginning adult's first introduction to martial arts. His perseverance, patience and embodiment of Ohana-sharing- have fostered many others lifelong commitment to martial arts.
In addition to his 9th degree black belt rank in jujitsu David also holds a 1st degree black belt in judo and has an active interest in wing-chung kung fu. He is a lifetime member of the U.S. Judo Association (USJA) and Jujitsu America (JA). He is currently a member of the JA Standards Board and participates in other projects at the request of the JA Board of Directors.
He was inducted into the JA Black Belt Hall of Fame in 2000.
David balances his martial arts teaching with his profession as a mechanical engineer. He lives in Moss Beach, California with his wife Rita.
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Professor Ron Jennings
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RANK
Danzan Ryu Jujitsu
Shichidan (Professor) - Shoshin Ryu Yudanshakai (Life Member)
Shichidan - Jujitsu America (Life Member)
Shichidan (Associate Professor) - American Jujitsu Institute (Life Member)
Yodan - American Judo & Jujitsu Federation (Life Member)
Judo
Kodokan Judo Shodan
Title
Menkyo Kaiden title of Kyoshi – Prof. Sig Kufferath
Menkyo Kaiden title of Shihan – Prof. Anthony Janovich
DOJO
KaishinKai Dojo, 6424 210th Ave SW, Centralia WA 98531
(360) 273-6064, e-mail: [email protected]
MARTIAL ARTS HISTORY
Ron Jennings began his martial arts career in 1956 when his father enrolled him in boxing lessons, then into a junior judo and wrestling program. In 1962 he discovered Danzan Ryu Jujitsu and started a lifelong devotion to the art. He received his Jujitsu Shodan in 1966 and his Kodokan Judo Shodan in 1976. In 1993 he received the teaching title of Kyoshi, and in 1999 he was named as a Professor of DanzanRyu by the ShoshinRyu Yudanshakai. Professor "Imi" Okazaki-Mullins personally presented Ron his Professor's belt and as she bowed remarked 'my father would be proud.' In 2003 Ron received the Menkyo Kaiden title of Shihan.
Ron opened his first dojo in Coos Bay, Oregon in 1968 and has been a school head ever since. While living on the East Coast to pursue a career in computer science, he worked for the Central Intelligence Agency, the Navy and Bell Research Labs before returning to the West Coast and settling in Washington state. He has operated a dojo in the Olympia, Washington area since 1978.
Ron is a licensed massage therapist and a member of the American Massage Therapy Association. He has received several national awards and honors including: the Outstanding Service Award from the Amateur Athletic Union where he served as jujitsu committee chair for 15 years; was co-recipient of the Wally Jay Award; was Instructor of the Year and named to the Black Belt Hall of Fame by Jujitsu America.
Ron’s dojo, KaishinKai, is located just south of the state capitol of Olympia, where he is a senior technical manager. The dojo has several class locations including an on-going program through the local college, and hosts numerous clinics and a summer camp each year. Ron is well known nationally as cane master and his seminars across the country on use of the cane by people of limited mobility are quite popular. Ron is currently the Pacific Northwest Regional Director for Jujitsu America and served previously as the JA webmaster.
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Professor Tony Maynard
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Professor Tony Maynard is the Southern Regional Director of both Jujitsu America and the American Ju-Jitsu Association. He is a Technical Director and Past President of the U.S. Sport Ju-Jitsu Association and the founder of the American Combat Ju-Jitsu System. He is a Technical Advisor of the Small Circle Jujitsu(tm) International.
A former Marine, Professor Maynard holds a 7th Dan Jujitsu (AJA), 6th Dan Jujitsu (JA), 4th Dan Isshin-Ryu Karate, 2nd Dan Chito-Ryu Karate and an Ikkyu in Judo. He is certified by the Department of the Navy as a Hand-to-Hand Combat Instructor.
Professor Maynard's awards include induction into Jujitsu America's Hall of Fame, the World Martial
Arts Hall of Fame and Instructor of the Year from both JA and AJA. He has also produced two videos:
"American Combat Jiu-Jitsu (Hand-to-Hand Combat)" and "You Don't Have to be a Victim".
Professor Maynard's dojo is:
American School of Self-Defense, Inc.
324 Barrington Park Lane
Kernersville, NC 27284
(910) 993-5488
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Professor Duwane McCraney
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I started My Martial arts career in 1969 with the study of Judo.
I studied Judo under the guidance of Sensei Bill Yakota and Xavier Maryuama, brother of Paul Maryuama, a noted Judoka in his own right.
It was soon after that I met Prof. John Chow Hoon who was a much respected Martial Arts Instructor, instructing classes in Jujitsu, Judo and Karate.
While I was not a regular student of Prof. Chow Hoon, I had the opportunity to train with him from time to time, learning not only Judo and Jujitsu, but the openness that I was later to find would be one of the most valuable assets one can possess.
I received my Shodan in Judo in 1977 while still a student of Sensei Bill Yakota. Present Judo rank Sandan (3rd. degree)
It was about that time I started the earnest study of Jujitsu and Karate with Prof. Chow Hoon.
It was in 1997/78 that I joined Jujitsu America a fledgling organization dedicated to the propagation and advancement of the Kodenkan, Jujitsu System, founded by Prof. Henry S. Okazaki.
I received my Shodan in Jujitsu in 1980 with my Nidan to follow in 1981.
I was awarded my Sandan Rank in 1982.
I was promoted to the rank of Shodan in Karate in 1980 and my present rank of Sandan In 1984.
In 1982-84 I was awarded the Presidential Meritorious award by acting Jujitsu America President, Prof. Willy Cahill, for my contribution to the organization, while serving as regional and National Secretary, for a total of six years.
Due to the progressive decline in his health, Prof. Chow Hoon asks me to continue his duties as Chief Instructor of his club, while staying on in an advisory capacity.
I retained that position from 1983 until his death, taking over at that time as Head Instructor, a position held as part of the Pacific Grove Adult School program for over eleven years.
I received my Yodan in Jujitsu in 1986.
I was awarded the Black Belt Instructor of the year award in 1987
One of my most prized awards ever, is the "Jujitsu America Professor, John Chow Hoon Spirit of Kodenkan Award" given to me in 1988.
I was awarded the Black Belt Hall of Fame Award in 1989
The Jujitsu rank of Godan was awarded to me in 1990.
I have been a member of the Board of Directors of Jujitsu America in one Capacity or another since 1980.
I have been fortunate to teach clinics at the regional, local and national level.
I was recommended for and received the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame Award, by Grandmaster Prof. Wally Jay in 1991.
I have given seminars to the Calif. State Park Rangers, in an effort to make them aware of better techniques and to aid in ground fighting awareness.
I have conducted classes with and have taught both Green Beret and Special Forces.
I have conducted classes and have given seminars to various Women's groups.
I have given clinics and workshops for Youth to Youth, a program dedicated to high school students in an effort to make them aware of other alternatives and life style and to keep them away from drugs.
I was promoted to the rank of Rokudan (6th Degree) in Jujitsu in 1996, a rank that has the added title of Master Instructor.
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Professor Janice Okamoto
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Bio is forthcoming
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Professor Chris Peterson
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Bio is forthcoming
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Professor Eric Renner
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Sensei Eric Renner is the head instructor of Renner Jujitsu Club and a senior jujitsu instructor at Cahill's Judo Academy in San Bruno, CA. He was first introduced to Kodenkan Jujitsu by his father, Bob Renner, who had been a student of Prof. Ray Law in Oakland, CA. His formal training began in 1982 under Prof. Sig Kufferath, with whom he trained for 13 years, and Prof. Richard Bunch, with whom he trained for 19 years. Sensei Renner continues his training under Prof. Willy Cahill, who he has known and had the honor to train with since 1986.
Sensei Renner holds the rank of Rokudan (6th Degree Black Belt) in Kodenkan Jujitsu under Coach Cahill and Jujitsu America, has been a member of the organization since 1986, and is a Life Member. He also holds black belt rank from the Kodenkan Yudanshakai under Prof. Joe Holck in Kodenkan Jujitsu and from the International Martial Arts Federation in Japan (Kokusai Budo Renmei) in the art of Nihon Jujitsu. He holds a Shodan grade in Judo. He has been certified in Okazaki Restoration Massage (seifuku jitsu) by Prof. Kufferath and Prof. Tony Janovich. He has appeared in magazine articles promoting the art of jujitsu and in Prof. Cahill's Danzan Ryu Jujitsu video series. He competed in the first Jujitsu West Coast Championships held in Los Angeles and took First Place in the Sport Jujitsu Championship in the lightweight black belt division.
He has coached and produced over 20 Sport Jujitsu national champions, dozens of national championship medalists, and many more champions in other events.
He currently serves as President of Jujitsu America, as the Chairman of the JA Sport Jujitsu Committee, and as a member of Jujitsu America's Standards Board, and also for the US Judo Association's Jujitsu program on the Jujitsu Executive Committee and Standards Board. Previously, he has served as Jujitsu America's 1st Vice President from 2007-2009 and as Registration Chairman from 2000-2007. He was a recipient of Jujitsu America's Ohana Award in its inceptive year, was recognized as Jujitsu America's Instructor of the Year in 2000, has received several Presidential Service Awards, was twice inducted into the Jujitsu America Black Belt Hall of Fame in 2003 and 2005, was humbled to receive the Wally Jay Award in 2004, and was most honored to receive the Willy Cahill Jujitsu Award in 2004.
Sensei Renner is deeply honored to work closely with his instructor Coach Willy Cahill to present Sport Jujitsu Tournaments and events several times a year, culminating with the annual Jujitsu America Sport Jujitsu US National Championship Tournament. These tournaments and events are presented in longtime partnership with Tiger Claw.
Sensei Renner has taught and demonstrated Kodenkan Jujitsu and Sport Jujitsu throughout the US, and in Europe and Asia, for various organizations including Jujitsu America, US Judo Association, Kodenkan Yudanshakai, AJJF, Shoshin Ryu Yudanshakai, Disney's Martial Arts Festival, IMAF, ATAMA, and others.
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Professor Joe Souza
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Professor Joe Souza began his martial arts studies in 1957 under the late Professor John Cahill. After his death in 1962, he assisted Professor Willy Cahill with the opening of the Cahill Judo Academy in San Bruno California, where it continues to be one of the most prominent Judo and Jujitsu schools in the country.
I met Professor Wally Jay in 1959 when he introduced the Cahill members to the Hokka Judo Yudanshakai. Professor Souza competed for 12 years as an aggressive competitor and received his Shodan in Kodokan Judo in 1964.
As a practitioner of Kodenkan Danzan Ryu Jujitsu Professor Souza and the Cahill club were members of the AJJF since Professor John Cahill was one of the founders. In the mid-sixties, we joined the AJI under Professor Sam Luke Sr. Professor Souza received his Nidan in 1967 and Sandan in 1969 from the AJI.
Since Professor John Cahill passed away at such a young age, he delegated his first Black Belt student Professor Bill Montero to conduct an Okugi for us. In 1963, several members of the Cahill club including Professor Willy Cahill and Professor Souza attended this training. The training lasted three months with a curriculum of Shinyo, Shin Gin, Seifukujitsu, Kappo and Katsu. Although no one received certificates of participation, this was truly an Okugi.
Professor Souza owned and operated several schools with the first in 1964. He and his first Black Belt Jim Powers opened Coastside Judo and Jujitsu in Pacifica California. He closed his last school in 2004 in Turlock California.
After many years of Judo and Jujitsu Professor Souza expanded his martial arts studies and earned his Black Belt in 1997 in the Ed Parker Kenpo Karate system under Professor Vinton Koklich.
The Kenpo system completed the circle to include a structured kicking and blocking system, which added to the Judo and Jujitsu. All the while Professor Souza was watching the development of Professor Jay's Small Circle Jujitsu.
With these disciplines, he developed the Kensujitsu System. The foundation of Kensujitsu is Danzan Ryu Jujitsu, Kodokan Judo, Kenpo Karate, with a Small Circle influence. Kensujitsu brings the full understanding of balance from Judo, high pain compliance and joint manipulation and transitional flow from Jujitsu along with the principles and concepts of American Kenpo Karate to deliver maximum power and efficient use of energy.
As founder of the Kensujitsu International System Professor Willy Cahill and Professor Wally Jay acknowledged Professor Souza as Founder and Sr. Grand Master with the rank of Judan 10th degree. Professor Souza holds the rank of Hachidan 8th degree with Jujitsu America, Sandan 3rd degree in Judo USJA and Shodan in American Kenpo Karate. Awards include Black Belt Hall of Fame 1999 and Instructor of the Year 2007 from Jujitsu America, Professor Wally Jay Award 2008. He currently serves on the Standards Board, Council of Professors for JA, and is a member of the standards board and executive committee for USJA Jujitsu, and is cofounder, president and Sr. Grand Master of the Professional Martial Arts Alliance (PMAA). Professor Souza conducts seminars and clinics in the US and abroad. To contact Professor Souza email him at [email protected]
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Professor Laura Welch
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I believe helping to empower women is part of my purpose in life” Professor Laura Welch was quoted by the San Francisco Examiner in a multi-page feature article highlighting her women’s self-defense class http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/WOMAN-POWER-3105351.php .
Professor Welch has developed a six week course in women's self-defense that has been taught at Cahill’s Judo Academy and with the Foster City Police Department through their community outreach program. One of the unique features of this class is that no men are allowed for the first four classes. Her philosophy is; "NO, is not enough. When faced with the situation of defending yourself, you must be both physically and mentally prepared. We need to be able to reach inside ourselves and exchange hysterical fear for controlled power".
Professor Welch has taught from kindergarteners to Secret Service Agents sharing her love of martial arts. And, in keeping with spirit of martial arts she cross trains with other arts at every opportunity to enhance and hone her skills.
Professor Welch has received numerous awards over the years including: Jujitsu America's Presidential Award in 1991, Distinguished Service Award in 1993 and 1996, and Instructor of the Year in 1996 Black Belt Hall of Fame 2017. She served Jujitsu American as Secretary, 1st Vice President, Registration Chairman, Director and in committees.
Professor Laura Welch, ranked as Shichidan in Jujitsu and Sandan in Judo, started her training in 1974 at Cahill's Judo Academy and started additional training in 1986 at Nikko Jujitsu.
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Sensei Todd Birdseye
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Bio is forthcoming
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Sensei Dominic Cirincione
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Bio is forthcoming
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Sensei Gary Deaver
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Master Gary Deaver began his martial arts training in Kajukenbo Karate in 1985, under the instruction of Senior Grandmaster Joseph Habana. He received his Black Belt in Kajukenbo under Professor Bob Maschmeier in 1990. Master Deaver continued training in Kajukenbo while pursuing other arts as well. In 1991 began training in Kodenkan Danzan Ryu Jujitsu under the instruction of Professor Willy Cahill. He received his Shodan in 1994 and his Nidan in 1999. Additionally, he is currently training in Sil Lum
Ga and Tai Chi.
Shortly after receiving his Black Belt, Master Deaver founded Coast Karate Studio East Bay, which he teaches along with the help of his son, Jared Deaver. In addition to his activities at the school Master Deaver teaches Women's Self Defense courses for various organizations which include churches, schools, hospitals, professional offices, and medical organizations.
Master currently holds the rank of 5th Degree Black Belt in Kajukenbo Karate, and Nidan in Kodenkan Danzan Ryu Jujitsu, and continues to promote both arts in his school in Pinole, California.
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Sensei Tony DeBattista
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Bio is forthcoming
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Sensei Dave Fairfield
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Sensei Fairfield began his Jujitsu instruction in l963 at the Island Judo / Jujitsu Club. He was hired as a teacher and coach at Alameda High School in l964. During his tenure at Alameda High School, Sensei taught biology, physiology, was a counselor and physical education teacher. He coached swimming, water polo, and tennis. In l975, the Alameda High School physical education department was told that the gym would be unavailable as a teaching station, due to earthquake renovation, and the instructors were asked to "improvise a program for a year". We were given a dingy room in the basement of the cafeteria. Sensei Janice Okamoto was in Sensei Fairfield's first class. Jujitsu evolved over the years to become one of the finest physical education programs in the history of the Alameda School District.. The Jujitsu class was voted the best Physical Education class in the San Francisco Bay Area. The class was invited to demonstrate at two State of California Teachers Conventions, and at the National Secondary School Teachers Convention. Alameda High School students participated at the Henry S. Okazaki National Championships. Sensei's David Fairfield, Ron Beatty and Janice Okamoto were the founders of Camp Danzan Ryu, held each year in Felton, California.
Sensei was voted "Teacher of the Year" in l984 for his work with the Jujitsu program, the only physical education in the 125 year history of the Alameda Unified School District to receive this award, and was the North Coast Section Honor Coach of the year in l985.
Sensei Fairfield has been voted by Jujitsu America to the Hall of Fame and also voted Instructor of the Year. Sensei holds the rank of Rokudan, and has his Instructors certificate in Seifukujitsu.
Sensei retired from teaching in l997, moved to Sonora, California where he and his wife, Allison have just completed building their dream house, complete with a 400 square foot dojo. Sensei continues to teach at Mountain Storm Jujitsu in Sonora, California
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Sensei Robert Gale
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Sensei Rob Gale has been studying, training and teaching martial arts since 1968. He has extensive training in Small Circle Jujitsu, Kodenkan Jujitsu, Judo, Muay Thai, and Wrestling, but has also studied other forms of jujitsu, karate, aikido, ninjitsu, pressure points, eskrima/arnis/kali, chin na, and restorative massage. He has competed at the international level in judo and jujitsu, with numerous trophies at state championships and international events. He has demonstrated and taught Small Circle Jujitsu, Combat Jujitsu, Judo and Massage at events around the USA and internationally (Europe, Japan, Thailand, and more). He has appeared in martial arts videos, TV programs, and on radio shows.
Ranks:
- 8th degree black belt (and Grandmaster) in Combat Jujutsu
- 7th degree black belt in Dave Castoldi Street Jujitsu
- 6th degree black belt in Kodenkan Danzan Ryu Jujitsu
- 5th degree black belt in Small Circle Jujitsu™
- 5th degree black belt in American Combat Jujitsu
- 4th degree black belt in Kodokan Judo
Certifications:
- Certified instructor of Small Circle Jujitsu™ (one of the first to be awarded)
- Certified instructor of Kodenkan Jujitsu (from Jujitsu America)
- Certified instructor/coach of Kodokan Judo
- Certified Sport Jujitsu Referee (from Jujitsu America)
- Certified Combat Jujitsu International Referee (from Combat Jujutsu International Federation)
Honors:
- Jujitsu America Black Belt Hall of Fame
- Council Member for Combat Jujutsu International Federation
- Business Manager for Small Circle Jujitsu International
- California Regional Director for US Police Defense Tactics Association
- West Coast Representative for American Combat Jujitsu
- West Coast Representative for Dave Castoldi Street Jujitsu
- “Professor Wally Jay Award”, “Small Circle Jujitsu Distinguished Service Award”, “Outstanding Black Belt Award”, “Jujitsu America Ohana Award”, "Jujitsu America Distinguished Service Award, plus more.
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Sensei Chris Hardy
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Chris Hardy is Yodan, fourth degree black belt, in Kodenkan Jujitsu and Sandan, third degree black belt, in Kodokan Judo. He's been an instructor at Cahill's Judo Academy since 1998, also helping out with the Paralympic Blind Judo Team. He also teaches judo at the Academy of Art University, the only art school in the country with a judo program.
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Sensei Bob Hodge
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I've Studied some of the EASTERN and WESTERN Martial Arts. I began studying in 1965, continuing to the present and what I've lacked in natural talent (and I don't claim any), I've made up for in longevity. The Martial Arts that I've studied are; (WESTERN) Boxing, Wrestling, Sport Fencing (all 3 weapons), (EASTERN) Judo/Jujitsu, Karate/Tae Kwon Do, Hopkido and Arnis/Eskrima (in that order).
I've Studied with Prof. Wally Jay (Small Circle Jujitsu) from Sept. 1974 until his retirement. I was a regular student in his classes at the home dojo (not a seminar student) and still practice SCJ.
Since 2003 I've Studied Modern Arnis as a student attending the regular San Pablo (now Richmond), CA Sat. classes of Dr. Remy P. Presas (son of GM Remy A. Presas) (who's innovative methods remind me of Prof. Wally Jay).
I occasionally teach Self-defense, Jujitsu, Sport Fencing, Modern Arnis and Amma Massage. My main massage instructors have been Prof. Sig Kufferath, Bernice Jay, Jack Carter and lesser known but just as good Jujitsu-Prof. Rudy Aguilar. There have been many other friends and acquaintances who have shared their knowledge and skills with me over the years.
I'm a "Leo" and was born in "The Year Of The Tiger".
My Martial Arts experience began as a form of self-defense (raised in a rough neighborhood in Oakland, CA, no father at home, the older of two boys. I had no one to stick up for me, but I was expected to protect my younger brother and boxing came along "it was ideal"). Self-defense unexpectedly became a hobby (I wasn't a winner and didn't like being hit, so I gave up boxing in 1968 and found fencing). Fencing had romance, I'd read a lot of adventure books featuring sword-play and thrilled to the swashbuckler movies. Unfortunately I didn't become a hero, but I stuck with fencing and got fairly good. In '72 (while trying to be Batman without the cape and cowl) as a juvenile counselor needing to restrain kids (boys, hell-bent on taking a piece out of my or someone else's hide), judo/jujitsu instruction was offered by a really great guy named Joe Watson Sr. who instructed me for the next two and a half years. I've found that over the years martial arts has taken on a life of its own (I didn't become a Superhero, Warrior or Warrior-monk. I've enjoyed practicing and instructing as a hobby).
Because of my involvement with the martial arts, fencing and massage, I've made a great many friends. Some of these friends have even adopted me into their families. Most of them are there willing to be supportive and help me when I have had need of them.
As a student of Prof. Wally Jay I've had access to many of the popular big names in martial arts. It was a lucky break that I met Prof. Jay, I didn't know who he was at the time I started his classes. I also didn't realize how well known and great Prof. Sig Kufferath or Prof. Jack Carter was when I started studying with them. I didn't have a plan I just pursued a hobby and was very lucky. And the luck continues with the likes of Prof. Rudy Aguilar and Dr. Remy Presas Jr.
Ranks I hold: (1) 3rd Black Belt with Jujitsu America (2) 6th Black Belt with Small Circle Jujitsu, Prof. Wally Jay gave me one of his own black belts in 1999 (the only thing I might call a trophy in martial arts) (3) Senior Instructor-7th Lakan (Black Belt) in The Presas Family Modern Arnis from the MARPPIO organization. Instructor certificate with Jujitsu America in Jujitsu and Senior Massage Instructor. Permission to teach Jujitsu From Prof. Wally Jay, Permission to teach Modern Arnis from Dr. Remy P. Presas and a Massage Instructor certificate from Prof. Jack Carter. UNOFFICIALLY; a self-defense instructor since 1978, including teaching self-defense at a local Community College, Community groups and individuals and a sport fencing instructor since 1983. What I mean by "unofficial" is that I didn't have any group or organization to sanction me, but I found a void that needed filling and was fortunate enough to find support and be successful filling it.
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Sensei Sue Jennings
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RANK
Danzan Ryu Jujitsu
Sandan – Jujitsu America (Life Member)
Sandan - American Jujitsu Institute (Life Member)
Sandan– Shoshin Ryu Yudanshakai (Life Member)
Shodan – American Judo & Jujitsu Federation (Life Member)
Menkyo Kaiden title of Renshi – Prof. Anthony Janovich
Taekwondo – Shodan
DOJO
KaishinKai Dojo, 6424 210th Ave SW, Centralia, WA 98531
(360) 273-6064, e-mail: [email protected]
MARTIAL ARTS HISTORY
Sue Jennings began training in martial arts in 1984 studying Taekwondo and earned her Shodan from both Grandmaster Young Hak Lee and then the World Taekwondo Federation in 1987. In 1989 she began studying Danzan Ryu Jujitsu from Ron Jennings and received her Shodan in 1995. She is currently ranked as a Sandan. Sue has studied massage therapy from Prof. Sig Kufferath, Prof. Lamar Fisher and Leif Grunseth, an Olympic massage therapist. Sue is a life member of several Danzan Ryu organizations and is a member of the Association of Women Martial Arts Instructors (AWMAI). She also received the Menkyo Kaiden tilte of Renshi after intensive Okugi training from Professor Anthony Janovich in 2003.
Sue is in her fourth year teaching Danzan Ryu Jujitsu at the Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington, and is assistant instructor at KaishinKai Dojo near Centralia. She also teaches women’s self-defense classes. She has taught at national conventions for Jujitsu America, Shoshin Ryu, and taught at Ohana 2001 in Hawaii and at Ohana 2003 for the American Jujitsu Institute. She is co-director of Kamp KaishinKai, an annual summer camp held in Washington state.
Sue has been recognized with the following awards: an Ohana award from Jujitsu America, Presidential Awards for Distinguished Service by JA in 1997, 1999, 2000, and 2001, and was co-recipient of the Wally Jay Award. At Ohana 2001 in Hawaii she received the Samuel S. Luke Distinguished Service Award from the AJI.
Sue is a graphic artist, and former editor of the Jujitsu America newsletter.. She was also named to be the Custodian of Records for the Danzan Ryu Jujitsu Kodenkan Alliance that encompasses all jujitsu organizations practicing the arts of Danzan Ryu worldwide, along with Olympic Judo Coach Willy Cahill.
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Sensei Mike Lynch
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Sensei Michael Lynch began his study of Kodokan Judo in 1960, Aikido in 1962, Shotokan Karate in 1964, and Mushin Ryu (Kawaishi) Jujitsu in 1965. He also studied Taekwondo, Korean Hapkido, and Japanese Kempo. While in the military, Michael trained throughout Europe, and taught police, military and civilians Judo, Jujitsu, Karate and Aikido. In 1975, he was introduced to Danzan Ryu Jujitsu and in 1980 affiliated with Jujitsu America. At that time he was introduced to the Small Circle Theory of jujitsu and applied those principles to his martial arts syllabus. In 1986, after having become a champion in local, state, regional, national and international Jujitsu and Karate championships, he was appointed Captain of the USA Jujitsu team, and from 1986 to 1992 he earned medals in world competition. He was also certified as a national and international referee. He gained renown as the writer of the song, "The Gentle Art", which was a staple of Camp Danzan Ryu for many years. The Lynch brothers created the "Aiuchi Brothers" routine that pitted twins applying identical techniques, thereby canceling each other out. In 1992, he was awarded the title of Professor in jujitsu, and currently holds the rank of 8th Dan in Danzan Ryu Jujitsu (5th Dan in JA), 7th Dan in Mahkawai Karate , 4th Dan in Judo, 3rd Dan in Aikido, 2nd Dan in Taekwondo and Japanese Kempo, and 1st Dan in Kendo. He served as Regional Director for the AJJF, and President of the Southern California Jujitsu Association. He was a life member of JA and the AJJF.
Sensei Lynch resided in Salt Lake City, Utah where he conducted classes in Judo, Jujitsu and Karate. He had been in law enforcement for over 30 years and at the time of his death was an Adult Probation and Parole Agent for the State of Utah, as well as a certified defensive tactics instructor at the Utah State Corrections Academy. He had completed several movies and had planned other future film projects.
Mike passed away at age 51 on New Year's Eve 12/31/2002.
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Sensei Tim Lynch (Deceased)
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Bio is forthcoming
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Sensei Stephen Macoritto
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JA 5D, Instructor
QUEST ACADEMY: Teacher
MA Bio: Danzan Ryu Jujitsu: 5D (JA/AJA), 5D Professor (DZRY), [1974-];
Mushin Ryu Jujitsu: 5D (David Bellman),
Quest Martial Science: 5D (Quest Academy) &
Within Arms’ Reach: 1D (Cliff Stewart).
Studies: Kashima Shin Ryu Kenjitsu/Jujitsu, “Seki” Jujitsu, Judo,
Filipino MA/JKD, & Jun Fan/FMA.
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Sensei Sheldon Marr
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Sheldon Marr is the Chief Instructor / Founder of the Grappler's Edge Academy in Denver, CO, the Defensive Tactics Instructor for the Denver Sheriff Department, and has been involved in the Martial Arts for more than 45 years.
A former Judo and Wrestling Champion himself, his students have won National and International titles in Judo, Wrestling, Pankration and MMA, and 15 U.S. National Team Titles in Jujitsu and Submission Wrestling to date.
Marr has been recognized as the "Instructor of the Year" by: Jujitsu America, The World Martial Arts Hall of Fame, The International Black Belt Hall of Fame, The United States Martial Arts Hall of Fame, and The U.S. Federation of Pankration Athlima.
The Former U.S. Pankration Team Coach and present (4 Time) U.S. Grappling Team Coach credits his success to having had great Instructors himself including: Wally Marr, Willy Cahill, Wally Jay and Charlie Lee.
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Sensei Dara Masi
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Dara Masi Shihan began her study of the martial arts in 1986 and is a direct student of Dennis Palumbo Shihan in Hakkoryu Jujutsu. She received the rank of Menkyo Kaiden Shihan San Dai Kichu (8th degree black belt) in 2008 from Palumbo Shihan. He then passed the mantle of responsibility of the Hakkoryu Martial Arts Federation to her, naming Masi Shihan as Director. HMAF is an organization dedicated to furthering the study of Hakkoryu Jujutsu throughout the world.
Masi Shihan is an instructor of Iaido. She is ranked at Nidan in both Aiki Toho Iaido founded by Shoji Nishio, Shihan and Soshoryu Heihodo Iaido, founded by Masakazu Tazaki. She currently trains in Aiki Toho Iaido as a student of Joji Yoshida, Shihan and Michele Benzamin-Miki, Sensei.
Masi Shihan is also an instructor of Hojojutsu. This traditional Japanese martial art includes techniques to restrain a person with rope. Masi Shihan presents both capture and transport ties as part of an advanced study of Jujutsu in preserving the reality of takedown, control, and restraint.
Masi Shihan is a life member of and instructor in Jujitsu America. In 2002, she hosted the Jujitsu America Convention in New York. Masi Shihan served on the Board of Directors of the National Women's Martial Arts Federation for four years as its Treasurer and served a six year term as President of the Association of Women Martial Arts Instructors, which she co-founded in 1998.
In 1994, Masi Shihan founded Suigetsu Dojo in Long Island, New York. After relocating to Northern California in 2012, Masi Shihan continues to teach classes at her dojo, Suigetsu Dojo West, as well as continuing to travel throughout the country teaching seminars in Hakkoryu Jujutsu, Iaido, and Hojojutsu.
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Sensei Ed Melaugh
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Bio is forthcoming
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Sensei Scott Merrill
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I started my training in Martial Arts in 1974 under Pete Santos who taught Goju Ryu
Karate and Arnis.
Shortly after I was introduced to Professor John Chow Hoon by a friend and was taken to his dojo to observe. I was impressed by what he taught and how it was taught and began studying under Prof. Chow Hoon in 1976.
I stayed with Prof. Chow Hoon and later became an assistant instructor under him at the Pacific Grove School in California. After he passed away I stayed at the school for some time, but later started my own school in Monterey California.
At the same time I was learning from Prof. Chow Hoon I was also going to the Marina Dojo which was also started by Prof. Chow Hoon prior to the Pacific Grove Dojo. The Marina Dojo was under the instruction of Prof. James Muro.
I’m currently ranked as a Rokudan in Kodenkan Danzan Ryu Jujitsu, Sandan in Koshoryu Kenpo, and Shodan in Shorinji Ryu Karate and Kumu Lua in Lua Halau O Kaihewalu.
Others that I have studied with and consider myself a student of are: Prof. Wally Jay (Small Circle Jujitsu), Prof. Willy Cahill (Cahill’s Judo), Prof. Sig Kufferath (Danzan Ryu Jujitsu), Grand Master Arthur Gonzalez (Tenio’s System Of DeCuerdas), Suru Mike and Jason Inay (Inayian System of Escrima).
Awards Received By Jujitsu America: Instructor of the Year 1994
Black Belt Hall of Fame 1996
Professor John Chow Hoon Memorial Award 2000
Presidential Award 1984
Chow Hoon Goshin Jitsu Monterey
Sensei Scott Merrill
1474 Mingo Avenue
Seaside, CA. 93955
(831) 402-3172
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Sensei Bob Parksion
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Bob Parksion is the head instructor at the Salem Budokai in Salem, Oregon. He started his martial arts training in Judo in Seattle in 1969. He moved to Salem and started Danzan Ryu Jujitsu at the Salem Budokai in 1971 under Roland Clark Sensei. He studied with Clark Sensei until his retirement in 1987. Larry Acuff Sensei took over for Clark Sensei; Bob continued his studies under Acuff Sensei until his retirement in 1994. Bob became the head instructor of Salem Budokai in 1994. Bob holds the rank of Godan in Jujitsu (5th degree black belt) with the Koden Bujutsu Ryu Jujitsu and Karate Association; Godan in Danzan Ryu Jujitsu (5th degree black belt) with Jujitsu America; Nidan (2nd degree black belt) in Aikido with the American Shudokan Association; and Ikkyu (first kyu) in Judo with the United States Judo Association.
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Sensei Jim Powers (Deceased)
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Although many of you may not remember the name Sensei James Powers, he has been a member of Jujitsu America since the beginning and continues to teach in both Judo and Jujitsu and has been a member of Cahill's Judo Academy for 38 years.
In 1982 he was named “Instructor of the Year" and 10 years later were inducted into the "Black Belt Hall of Fame" for Jujitsu America.
Sensei Powers played a big part along with Coach Cahill in the development of many of the National Champions at Cahill's Judo Academy. As of this date Cahill's has produce over 1000 National and International Champions and continue to excel in Sport Judo.
Coach Cahill said he gets all the credit but Coach Powers should take a lot of the credit because we had a great working relationship together which made it easy for both of us to coach any of our athletes. Coach Powers is also instrumental in producing two of America's top female competitors, sisters Charlee and Davina Minkin. Charlee represented the United States at the World Championships in Germany (2001).
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Sensei Rick Robinson
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I started Jujitsu training at age 6, in 1960 at the Ardmore YMCA, I was promoted to a junior black belt at age 12. I continued with training and wrestling team until 15.
I left home and went to California where I trained at any school that would have me for chores and such through High School. I trained for 6 years with James Wing Wu in Hung Gar Kung Fu and for 2 years in Tia Chi concurrently.
During that period I also spent some time at Ed Parker's in West LA. I trained and co-taught with Frank Dux in Koga Yamabushi Nin Jitsu for 8 years in North Hollywood. During that time I also taught at the Pacoima Boy's Club.
I returned to the Philadelphia area in 1984 and began my own school in Plymouth Meeting, through Whitemarsh Recreation, in September of 1985 where I still teach today.
My primary art is Koga Yamabushi Nein Jitsu which is an eclectic art based on Jujitsu, kick boxing and the traditional kabudo weapons. My rank in Koga Yamabushi Ryu is Godan. I have a Sandan through JA, and a Shodan in Shotokan as well as Tae Kwon Do.
In 1991 I went to a seminar of Prof. Remy Presas' Modern Arnis and I have studied that art since. In 1992 I was introduced to Prof. Wally Jay by Prof. Presas, and I have been an avid follower of Prof. Jay ever since.
All in all, I guess this makes me a Martial Arts mutt!
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Sensei Daniel Ruocco
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Multi-Style Martial Arts Athlete: Judo - Jujitsu - Combative Martial Arts - Street Jujitsu, with Over 32 Years Of Experience In Martial Arts.
Dr. Daniel Ruocco is the Chief Master Instructor and founder of the International Martial Arts Academy. Sensei Daniel started martial arts in Italy when he was 6 years old, trained and taught martial arts in Europe, Japan and United States and currently holds the rank of 4th Degree Black Belt in Jujitsu, 3rd Degree Black Belt in Judo, Jujitsu America certified instructor and referee. He also holds rank in Karate, Kick Boxing, Ashiara Karate, Kenpo, Tae Kwon Do, Muay Thai, kobudo and Kendo. Certified USA JUDO National Coach. Sensei also served in the Italian army.
In 1999, Sensei Ruocco received a Doctorate in Sport Science with elements of psychology, child education, anatomy and biology, he also has written a thesis in "Spine Malformations in the Developmental Years". During his studies in the University of Naples, he had the honor to train for three years with Olympic Judo Gold Medalist Giuseppe Maddaloni and with Tae Kwon Do World Champion Geremia Di Costanzo (the first non-Korean to win the world championship). He also trained professional athlete, football great Randy Moss.
Sensei Ruocco found great success winning numerous awards and earned international recognition for his Martial Arts skills and teaching methods. He was honored with "Instructor of the year 2006" and "Police Tactics Instructor of the year 2007" by the "Hall of Fame Martial Arts". The highest honor for Sensei Ruocco was to be inducted "Instructor of the year" from Jujitsu America federation.
Prof. Daniel Ruocco has also received the "Blue Ribbon Award" for I.M.A.A. for his excellent contribution and dedication to the Martial Arts. The Blue Ribbon Award represents the school and school owner´s excellent service, dedication, experience, inspiration, and recognizes that the school is on the rise.
From 2009 to 2013 the International Martial Arts Academy was awarded for the "Best Martial Arts School / Best Program Award" of Fort Lauderdale.
In October 2009 International Martial Arts Academy was Awarded for the "2009 Top Martial Arts School Award" by EFC Black Belt Schools a martial arts management agency and by its international board of directors of Martial Artists.
Every two years Sensei Ruocco has the great honor to train with the best of the world in Kodokan Judo Institute Tokyo, Japan.
Because of his background and outstanding qualifications, in July 2008 he was certified Jujitsu America Instructor and JA Sport Jujitsu referee. In 2010 USA Judo National Coach. In March 2012 he successfully passed his Kendo test for 3kyu. In September 2012 he achieved his 4th degree black belt in Jujitsu.
Sensei Daniel currently directs all his efforts to bringing the benefits of Judo, Jujitsu and other arts we teach to the local community.
Personal Thoughts: Everything you need in life can be worked on in the Dojo:
A strong BODY, a sharp MIND and a vital SPIRIT.
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Sensei Stephen Singleton
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JA 5D, Instructor
QUEST ACADEMY: Teacher
MA Bio: Danzan Ryu Jujitsu: 5D (JA/AJA), [1966-];
Quest Martial Science: 4D (Quest Academy), &
Within Arms’ Reach: 1D (Cliff Stewart).
Studies:Tai Chi, Seifukujutsu, Small Circle Jujitsu, Cement Jujitsu,
FMA/Silat, Atemi/Jun Fan, & MA: Educational Psychology.
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Sensei Keith Thomas
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JA 5D, Instructor
QUEST ACADEMY: Teacher
MA Bio: Danzan Ryu “Hawaiian” Jujitsu: 5D (JA/AJA), [1968-];
Quest Martial Science: 5D (Quest Academy) &
Within Arms’ Reach: 5D (Cliff Stewart).
Studies: Small Circle Jujitsu, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Cement Jujitsu, Filipino MA,
Atemi/Jun Fan, Seifukujutsu, & PT (Physical Therapy)
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Michael Belzer
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JA 5D, Instructor.
SABAKU JUTSU: Sensei & QUEST ACADEMY: Advisor.
MA Bio: Sabaku Jutsu: Founder,
Danzan Ryu Jujitsu: 9D Professor (Wm. Randle), 5D (JA), [1965-];
Shindo Muso Ryu
Jojutsu (Jodo): 6D,
Jun Fan (JKD) MA: Senior/Apprentice Instructor (Dan Inosanto),
Boxe Francaise-Savate: 1st Silver Glove (Salem Assli),
Filipino MA: JKD/Kali-Senior/Apprentice Instructor (Dan Inosanto),
Kalis Ilustrisimo: Research Expedition (Antonio Ilustrisimo), &
Cabales Serrada Escrima-Advanced Instructor (Khalid Kan).
Within Arms’ Reach: 5D (Cliff Stewart),
Realistic Scenario Training-Instructor Trainer, &
Aiki-Jitsu: 2D (Bernie Lau).
Studies: Small Circle Jujitsu (Wally Jay), Seifukujutsu, Pentjak Silat,
Impact Personal Safety, CQC, Aikido/Judo/Karate, & Hoplology
Studies with Donn Draeger.
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Sensei Shane Thompson
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As School Head and Instructional Director of the Rocklin Judo program Sensei Thompson brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience. Sensei Thompson started his training in 1983 and currently holds rank as a 5th Degree Black Belt (Godan) in Jujitsu. He also holds a 3rd Degree Black Belt (Sandan) in Judo under the guidance and direction of former U.S. Olympic Judo Coach Willy "Clipper" Cahill. As a former competitor in many martial arts venues which include Karate, Kick Boxing (AAU), Boxing (AAU), Judo, Wrestling and Sport Jujitsu competitions Sensei Thompson has amassed his share of success receiving numerous regional gold medals and national podium finishes. He has also had tremendous success in leading others to great achievements at the National and International levels of competition.
Drawing from his experiences in Hawaiian Jujitsu, Sport Jujitsu, Kodokan Judo, Shorin Ryu Karate, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), Boxing, American Kickboxing, and Wrestling Sensei Thompson has the ability to offer a variety of technical applications for both self-defense and sport. He has also led programs such as Women's Self-Defense for the City of Roseville and has been a featured instructor at many large scale conventions and seminars throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. He is currently a Continental Certified USA Judo Coach and has experience coaching elite level Judo athletes at international venues. Some of his own students have qualified for spots on the U.S. National Judo Team. He holds rank with Jujitsu America, USA Judo, and the United States Judo Association. In 2013 Sensei Thompson was named Instructor of the Year by Jujitsu America where he served for many years as an instructor, board member and Sport Jujitsu Official.
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Sensei Bill Troy
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Sensei Bill Troy has studied martial arts for over 30 years. He began Jujitsu training in 1978, studying Vee Jitsu, while in the U.S. Navy stationed in Bermuda. In addition to several styles of Jujitsu, Bill has trained in Judo, Shotokan Karate and Hapkido. “Father” Troy studied for many years with Professor Dave Castoldi and Ed Melaugh, in Boston, and is a Senior Black Belt Instructor under Professor Castoldi.
In 1994 Sensei Troy founded the Philadelphia Jujitsu Club and in 2005 founded the Pinelands Jujitsu Club (South Jersey), teaching and promoting Professor Castoldi’s unique style of rough-and-tumble, streetwise self-defense and weapons defense.
Sensei Troy holds a 6th Dan in Jujitsu from Professor Castoldi and Jujitsu America. He is currently a JA Director-at-Large and is a past recipient of the Professor John Chow-Hoon Spirit of Kodenkan Award and the JA Distinguished Service Presidential Award.
Bill currently resides and works in Medford, NJ, and is the Director and Chief Instructor of the Philadelphia Jujitsu Club and the Pinelands Jujitsu Club. In “real-life,” Bill works as a reinsurance executive and holds a MBA in finance and international business.
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Graciela Casillas
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CASILLAS MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY: Head Instructor.
MA Bio:
SHEN CHUNG DO: 10D Grand Master/Founder.
Jujitsu: Danzan Ryu-7D (American Jujitsu Institute),
5D (Jujitsu America); 5D (BCI/Ernie Boggs).
Within Arms’ Reach: Senior Instructor (Cliff Stewart).
Filipino MA: Serrada Escrima-Masters’ Advanced Instructor/Guro (Angel Cabalas),
Arnis: (Bobby Taboada) & Stick Fighting-World Champion.
American Kenpo Karate (BKF): 3D.
Kali, Jun Fan (JKD) Martial Arts: Sifu (Dan Inosanto).
WWBA Boxing World Champion & WKA Women’s Kickboxing World Champion.
Studies: Tae Kwon Do, Hwa Rang Do, Small Circle Jujitsu, Executive Security Qualifications, NRA Gun Qualifications & Masters in Counseling & PE.
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