As A Parent

The dojo is a school. When you take your children to school, you normally don't stand in the doorway all day and watch them at their classes. We do want you to stay and watch if you can and we certainly welcome your comments. However, it is a good idea to talk to your child about whether your presence while they practice or compete is disruptive to their concentration and respect their feelings about it. Comments or gestures directed at children while they are practicing are counter productive and unacceptable.

One of the best ways to be supportive is to provide positive feedback and encouragement after the practice. When doing so, be specific and base your comments on observations from the practice.

The above works for tournaments as well. As to when your child is ready to participate in a tournament, my feeling has always been to wait until they ask. Tournaments should be fun and exciting with the emphasis on skill, strategy, learning and character. Our students must respect their opponents by not celebrating when they win or show overt disappointment when they lose. Under no circumstances is it acceptable to engage in derogatory or intimidating dialogue with any opponent. This applies to practice as well.

"I ask that all my students try and help to maintain our good reputation in BC Judo and in our community in order to promote the sport of judo."

-Sensei Michael 

As A Student

Preparing for Class

• Personal hygiene is important. Keep your body clean. 
• Keep fingernails and toenails cut short. 
• Tie long hair back with a band that has no metal on it. 
• No jewelry or hard objects of any kind are allowed. 
• The judogi (uniform) shall be clean, dry and not torn. 
• Girls should wear a clean, white t-shirt under their judogi. 
• No shoes are allowed on the tatami (mats). 
• Shoes should be removed when you enter the building and left on the shelves provided near the entrance. 
• Be punctual for classes, tournaments and meetings. 
• Hang up jackets or clothes in an orderly fashion. 

Class Behaviour

• Treat others with respect and courtesy, particularly those older and of higher rank. 
• If you must join a class after it has begun, enter quietly. 
• Obey your instructors and address them in a polite manner. 
• Do not talk when instructors are speaking. 
• Do not walk in front of instructors or senior members. 
• Once practice has begun, do not leave the tatami area without permission from an instructor. 
• Do not eat or chew gum on the tatami. (Water bottles are allowed nearby) 
• Bowing is a sign of respect. 
• Bow when entering or leaving the tatami area. 
• Bow as a group to begin and end a class period. 
• Bow to your partner before and after practicing with them. 

Spectators / Visitors

• ​Spectators are always welcome. 
• No shoes are allowed on the tatami. 
• Chairs are provided for you along the side of the tatami.
• Please refrain from loud, excessive talking or making noise during class, especially when instructors are speaking. This is a school and our students need to focus on what is being taught. 
  
  

Attitude 
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Strong, vibrant and clean sportsmanlike judo is always encouraged. Humor and having fun is the true spirit of our sport and way of life. Enjoy what you do!

The true spirit includes executing excellent judo without hurting or intimidating your fellow judoka.  All students have the right to learn at their own pace, with the help and support of their teachers and their fellow judoka.