Sept. 2013 Director's Newsletter



Hi everyone,

We celebrated our opening on Sept.07 2013, we had a great start. New members have joined and other existing phoenix judokas have successfully transitioned to the new location and schedules. I’d like to thank all for your help in making this program possible and help us all follow our passion for Judo, especially to those of you who travel distances to get here. Our team has recently been joined by students, educators, doctors, designers, business professionals, etc.
We would like everyone to offer CONGATULATIONS TO GAGE MORSE for his winning performance at the Worcester Team Link Judo tournament on 09/29; and to say thank you to everyone else who went and either coached, participated, refereed, or supported team Phoenix.    

What we have accomplished this month:

Our beginning children now have a better idea what Judo is about and its rules. They understand how important it is to respect each other, be calm and take control of their bodies and minds. They are learning it’s not how fast you can earn a belt that is important; they are learning that the belt is not as important, as the person who wears the belt. Also this month, they are learning Ukemi (or break falls) which is how to fall without injury); basic hold downs such as Kesa Gatame (the scarf hold)  as well as learning  Tachiwaza (throwing techniques) such as Ippon Seoinage(one armed shoulder throw);  Osoto gari (Major outer reap), and Ogoshi (Major hip throw) . This last week they have also been learning Ouchi Gari and Kouchi Gari (major and minor inner reaps).
Adults beginners are learning many of the same techniques as the children, they continue to have fun and enjoy learning Judo. They all shared some laughter during our balance exercises while on their partner’s back. The black belts have shared their knowledge and techniques to the beginners and the other athletes. The Judoka with experience have been gearing up for competition and we will be evaluating everyone this month on progress as well as instituting other new program directives. Sensei Jay has worked very hard with everyone, and everyone should be complimented on their progress.

Reminders:
·         Please follow NESA’s rules and policies.
·         Respect other NESA students and programs.
·         Shoes should be placed in the cubbies.
·         If you have not enrolled in the program, please do so if you’ve decided to join.
·         For those who are doing drop-ins, please pay $10 at the NESA front desk before each class.

Our plan for Next Month:
For kids, we will continue to work on the techniques they have learned. In addition we will learn new Judo techniques: hold downs: such as Kata Gatame and other break falls such as diving Ukemi.

For adults: we will have more fun ways to practice and focus on evaluations of each student and their progression.

Starting October, 2013, we will start internal competitions at the end of the month. For kids, we will also have monthly Judo Kids award.

With your support and participation, we will continue to succeed and grow. Please let me know if any questions or comments about our program and please submit your ideas.


Thank you everyone,
Joe
Program director