Long Training Pair Promoted Together

From Left to Right - Adisa, Jae, Sensei Formaro, Sensei Suhr, Olivia

Under the USJA ranking system, under which the Des Moines Judo Academy operates, attaining the brown belt is a momentous occasion for several reasons.  Not only does it take years of study and dedication, it also serves as the delineating line between a novice and advanced student, with most tournaments only allowing those under brown belt to compete in novice divisions.

Monday June 9th, 2025, Adisa Ganic and Olivia McBee crossed this rubicon together when they were promoted to Sankyu.  The actual testing took place over the week prior, with the ceremony being conducted on the Monday to allow for the reverence due such an occasion.  The two young women began their journey into Judo together in approximately March of 2023, when they were the first two regular students in the Monday & Wednesday classes conducted by Sensei Suhr.  For months they were the primary, if not only, students in the now popular class time.  The two have supported each other through countless hours of training, promotions, injuries, and numerous tournaments, to arrive at this point.

Olivia, with Sensei Formaro and Sensei Suhr

Olivia, normally called “Liv” keeps a busy scheduled between work, frequent trips to visit her significant other, whom is finished technical school, crafting, training, and helping teach Des Moines Judo Academy’s children’s classes.  Though its rare to see now, due to an earlier injury, Liv has cultivated a great drop tai-otoshi.  Liv shines brightest in ground where, were weeks of drills following a leg injury have resulted in masterful skill at shime-waza or “choking techniques.”  Her hadaka-jime, commonly known as the rear naked choke, is excellent.  However, her ability to work her arms past nearly any defense for “nami-juji-jime” (normal cross collar choke)  and gyaku-juji-jime (reverse cross collar choke), often before her opponent realizes they’re in danger, is a marvel of the elegant interaction of technique maximizing on a natural advantage, and desmonstration of Seiryoku Zenyo.

Adisa, with Sensei Formaro and Sensei Suhr

Adisa, keeps a similarly busy schedule, maintaining employment, continuing her education, spending time with her significant other at his school, and training.  Adisa’s work learning Sensei Parkhill’s “sticky foot” method ko-soto-gari shows, with the attack often serving as her lead in, and consistently forcing a defensive response from her opponent. She often finishes matches with her swift tai-otoshi, launching near instantly at well chosen moments, which has brought her several wins at tournament, where she has consistently brought home medals.  Lately she has been seen working on expanding her foot sweep arsenal.

An African proverb states “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”  Congratulations to both young women on coming this far, and we’re excited to see how far they go!

Uke & Tori: Why Being a Great Uke Will Make You a Dangerous Tori

(Disclaimer: Capes are wildly impractical and not recommended for Judo, Jiu-Jitsu, or any martial arts training. These ones are purely symbolic—to capture the heroic spirit of the Uke and Tori. No judoka were harmed in the making of this image.)

Let’s cut the fluff—everyone wants to be the Tori. The thrower. The hero. The highlight reel. But here’s what most folks miss: the Uke, the one getting thrown, is the heartbeat of the training. If the Uke sucks, no one’s getting better.

Being a great Uke isn’t about flopping and hoping. It’s about control. Timing. Feedback. You are your partner’s resistance band and crash test dummy rolled into one. Let’s break down why being the best Uke in the room might be the biggest flex in your Judo journey.

Uke: The Role Everyone Underestimates

Without the Uke, the Tori’s just shadowboxing. The Uke is the one feeling the throw, absorbing the lessons, and helping the Tori fine-tune their mechanics. You’re not dead weight. You’re the data.

You feel the kuzushi. You feel the tempo. You feel when a throw is sharp—or when it’s a hot mess. Your body becomes the feedback loop.

A good Uke isn’t passive—they’re tuned in. They adjust their grip, their balance, their energy to make the technique real. And if you’re not doing that, you’re just eating mat.

It’s Not Just Falling—It’s Ukemi

You ever get thrown by someone who’s scared to fall? It’s like watching someone try to tiptoe through a car crash.

Ukemi isn’t just flopping safely. It’s a skill. A great fall builds Tori’s confidence. You land clean, they can commit. And when they commit, they grow.

Learning how to fall means learning how to protect your neck (literally) and how to flow with the energy of the throw. When your fall is clean, your Tori can throw harder and more realistically. That’s the trust.

Feeling Kuzushi and Giving Real Feedback

You’re not just there to go off-balance. You’re there to help your partner feel what real kuzushi looks like. The moment you feel it—say something. Let them know what worked and what didn’t.

Every time you get thrown, it’s a chance to feel the energy from the inside. You’ll know if the timing was off or if the lift came too late. And that’s what makes a good Uke priceless.

Grip Matters

Yes, even as Uke. Your grip tells the story. Rigid grip? You’re killing the throw. Loose like spaghetti? Same deal. There’s a Goldilocks zone—solid, but responsive.

Help the Tori move through the technique by giving them the kind of resistance they need—not the kind that kills the momentum.

Trust and Respect Are the Glue

If you and your partner don’t trust each other, forget it. That throw’s going nowhere.

Being a good Uke means trusting the person throwing you—and giving them reasons to trust you back. You want your partner to feel like they can go for the big technique without worrying about hurting you or being judged.

Good Ukes build Tori confidence. They say, "Go for it—I’ve got the fall handled." That’s how you both grow.

Why Every Great Uke Becomes a Scary-Good Tori

Here’s the cheat code: when you take the throw, you learn the throw. You live it.

You feel the timing, the lift, the entry. You feel what works and what doesn’t. Then when it’s your turn to throw? You already know what clean feels like. You’re not guessing—you’re reliving.

The best throwers I’ve seen are the best Ukes. They studied from the mat up.

Being the Uke When the Throw is New

New throws are awkward. That’s part of the grind. As the Uke, your job is to help your partner sort through the chaos.

You’re there to take the messy reps. To help your partner calibrate. To say, "Yo, that lift didn’t feel stable" or "I didn’t feel the off-balance until too late."

That feedback turns trial-and-error into progress.

The Personal Side of Uke: What It Taught Me

I’m usually one of the first people to throw my hand up when it’s time to be Uke—and it’s not because I like being tossed around (okay, maybe a little). It’s because I want all the XP. Being Uke gives me the freedom to study everything: grips, balance, kuzushi, breathing, reaction. As Tori, you’re locked into a role. As Uke? You get to steal all the cheat codes.

That’s why I love it. And with that trust comes responsibility. I have to be sharp on safety—don’t slam into my partner, don’t let them crash from a bad angle. Once I’m locked in and safe, I go into "absorption mode." That’s where I started to understand grips. My hands became sensors—were they guns or noodles? Could I feel 2, 3, or 4 knuckles? Were my grips clean? These micro-adjustments gave me a playbook of subtle details and a way to give real feedback.

As a teacher, I see the same learning curve over and over: new students being stiff, nervous, unsure. That’s normal. It’s my job to show them how to Uke—relaxed, present, rooted in safety, and clear in their intent.

But then there are the stubborn Ukes. The ones who won’t move with you. The ones resisting like it’s a competition. That moment when you think, "What’s this person doing?" Frustration builds. My go-to move? Thank them, switch partners, and say, "I think I need to try this on someone else." That saves face, avoids drama, and gives them a chance to reflect. More often than not, they circle back later to talk it out.

Now, real talk—sometimes people are just difficult. That’s when I try to diffuse the situation before it flares. I’m not here to escalate, but I’m also not here to roll over. I’ve had to pull the “5-minute water break” card just to reset the vibe. Sometimes being a black belt in politeness is your best tool. Stay strong. Stay respectful. Assume it’s miscommunication until proven otherwise. Lead with example, and hope they see it.

Training is full of these little moments—conflict, resolution, reflection. Every one of them is a lesson. Every crumb matters. Don’t leave any sweet treats behind.

Real Tips for Being a High-Level Uke

1. Relax Don’t stiff-arm your way through a throw. Stay loose. Stay aware. It helps you survive the impact and lets your Tori train with full confidence.

2. Communicate If the throw felt off—say it. If you lost balance early—say it. Don’t be a robot. Be a partner.

3. Be Mentally Present Don’t zone out waiting to get dumped. Watch their footwork. Feel their grip. Respond in real time.

4. Build Confidence, Not Ego Your job is to help your Tori go all-in. That means repping it out with them until it clicks. Don’t worry about looking cool. Focus on helping them grow.

Final Thoughts: Uke Isn’t Second Place

If you’ve ever rolled your eyes about “just being Uke,” you’ve missed the point.

Being an elite Uke is a leadership role. It takes awareness, humility, and a whole lot of mat time.

So the next time someone needs a body to throw, step up—not just to take the fall, but to own the role.

Because every great Tori started as someone who took great falls—and turned them into gold.

Your Turn: What’s one of the biggest lessons you’ve learned from being an Uke? Do you prefer being Uke or Tori when trying something new, and why? Have you ever had to help a partner improve by giving feedback as Uke? What did you say or do? Ever run into a stubborn or uncooperative Uke? How’d you handle it? What do you focus on when you're in the Uke role—grips, balance, kuzushi, something else?

Drop your thoughts in the comments or share a story from the mat. Let's learn from each other.

BJJ Convert Develops Stand Up Game and Earns Promotion

From Left to Right - Sensei Chey, Johan, Sensei Rodriguez

BJJ practitioners looking to develop their takedowns are a regular sight at the Des Moines Judo Academy. Most pass through, polishing a throw or two for competition before returning to their primary art, never making it past white belt. June 5th, 2025, Yauhen split from the pack for that trend by testing for, and being promoted to, “rokkyu” or “yellow belt.”

Yauhen first joined our dojo in November of 2024, and was more than a little scared of doing “randori,” a form of sparring, upright. Since then, Yauhen has developed his “ukemi,” the skill of falling or being thrown with minimal or no injury, enough to overcome his hesitation and can be seen regularly taking on other students at the dojo on thursday nights. His favorite stand up moves thus far are O-Goshi and Sumi-Gaeshi. Yauhen continues to train on BJJ at the No Coast school twice a week. When talking about the changes Judo has made in his overall grappling game, Yauhen explained that it caused him to appreciate gi fighting over no-gi, due to the increased technicality.

We look forward to more exciting developments from this man just beginning to make major headway in the Gentle Way, and anticipate watching his grappling style evolve as he becomes even more comfortable upright.

Judo Dojo Etiquette: Respect, Hygiene, Sparring, and Training Principles

Welcome to the world of Judo, where sweat meets soul and discipline checks your ego at the door. Whether you’re rocking a white belt or have stripes that could intimidate a zebra, one thing’s for sure—dojo etiquette isn’t optional. It’s essential. It’s not just about mastering the art; it’s about respecting the space, the people, and the philosophy that got us here in the first place.

Let’s break it down—how to carry yourself like a Judoka and not a clueless tornado in a gi.

Bowing: More Than a Nod, It’s the Entry Fee

Bowing isn’t just a tradition. It’s your cover charge for entering a space of mutual respect. It tells the room: "I’m here to learn, not to throw people like a maniac without context."

You bow to your partner, to the space, to your coach. It's not submission; it's alignment. You're syncing your mindset with the art. That said, don’t overdo it. No need to bow mid-throw like you’re reenacting a Shakespearean tragedy.

Quick hits:

• Bow in at the start and end of class.

• Bow before randori.

• Don’t bow mid-fight like an NPC stuck in a loop.

• Eyes forward, not at the mat—respect doesn’t mean weakness.

Hygiene: Because Nobody Wants to Catch the Funk

Don’t be the smelly kid!

Wearing a clean gi isn’t just about smelling good. It’s about not being the reason someone wishes they had nose plugs taped inside their headgear.

Wash your gi. Trim your nails. Shower. No one wants to roll with human Velcro covered in funk. If you're not clean, you're disrespecting your partners. And the mat gods will judge you.

Pro tips:

• Toenails and fingernails = mini razor blades if ignored.

• Deodorant is not your enemy.

• If your gi stands up by itself, burn it.

Bonus Tip: No Shoes on the Mats

This one should go without saying—but just in case it doesn’t: shoes don’t belong on the mats. Ever. The mats are sacred ground where we train, fall, and sometimes accidentally eat floor. Dragging in dirt, germs, or dog poop residue from the parking lot is a fast track to ruining everyone’s day. If your footwear touches the street, it doesn’t touch the tatami. Flip-flops at the edge are fine. Street shoes? Absolute no-go.

Sparring Etiquette: How Not to Be "That Guy"

Here’s where a lot of new Judoka (and some veterans) mess it up. Sparring is not your audition for an action movie. You're not there to win. You're there to learn.

Match Energy

If your partner’s chill, you’re chill. If they ramp it up, match them (responsibly). It’s not a flex contest. It’s cooperative combat.

Don’t Try to Win Practice

If you’re training to be the dojo alpha, you're missing the point. Nobody gives medals for demolishing training partners. You’re either improving, helping others improve, or being a danger. Choose wisely.

Communication is King

Want to go hard? Ask. Want to keep it technical? Say so. You’re not a mind-reader and neither are they.

Avoid Injuries (Seriously)

If you hurt someone, you didn’t win—you failed. We only get one body. Protect yours and theirs.

Story Time: "Pal" and the Armbar Incident

Let’s talk about Pal. After class, we're sparring. I’m working grips and ground control—nothing nuts. Pal wasn’t vibing. He lets out a roar and goes full berserker, cranking a wild armbar like it’s Mortal Kombat. I was tapping, repositioning, doing the whole polite exit dance—and he still rips it.

Coach stops the session. The room freezes. I smile, take a deep breath, and say, “I think I’m done for the day.”

Later, Coach pulled Pal aside. Respectfully handled. Pal faded from the mat over the next few weeks. Not because of punishment—because people didn’t want to roll with a loaded cannon. No hate, just natural consequences.

Moral of the story: Don’t be the reason people flinch when your name gets called for randori.

Real Talk: Wins, Losses, and the Woo-Woo

Here’s the deal. Everyone wants to win. That’s baked into our DNA. But there’s winning... and then there’s winning at the cost of trust. The line between pushing yourself and becoming a problem is thin, and once crossed, it’s hard to uncross.

Progress isn’t always a highlight reel. Sometimes your win is getting tossed less. Or sensing balance better. Or backing off before you go full gremlin. That’s still growth.

Judo gems:

• Ju = gentle. Not weak—smart.

• Kuzushi = unbalancing. That includes ego.

• Aiki = blending. Not overpowering.

Train with flow. Win with humility. Lose with curiosity. That’s the woo-woo. That’s the art.

Wrap It Up: It’s About People, Not Points

The dojo is sacred—not because of the walls, but because of the people in it. If you're not making it safer, better, and more respectful, then what are you even doing?

• Respect your partners.

• Clean your damn gi.

• Don’t try to be the dojo warlord.

• Train smart. Communicate. Be cool.

At the end of the day, nobody remembers the throw. They remember how you made them feel.

Now go be the Judoka people actually want to train with.

Your Turn:

Let’s hear from you. How do you keep the good vibes rolling and the mat monsters respectful? Got a golden rule for training etiquette? A sneaky trick to build trust with your randori crew? Or a story where someone (maybe you) totally fumbled the dojo code? Share your thoughts below—let’s turn this blog into a black belt-level conversation. Steel sharpens steel, after all.

Why Judo? How it Enhances Your Martial Arts Journey and Complements Kali & Silat

If you’re looking to dive deeper into martial arts, there’s one art that stands out as a game-changer: Judo. But why should you consider Judo as part of your martial arts journey? And how can it enhance what you already know in arts like Kali and Silat? Let’s break it down. Grab your gi, get ready, and let’s jump into this!

Why Take Judo?

Judo isn’t just about throwing people around, although let’s be honest—that’s a major part of it. At its core, Judo teaches you the principle of using your opponent’s energy and momentum against them. It’s like the ultimate game of chess where leverage, timing, and balance become your weapons of choice.

The best part? You don’t need to be the Hulk to throw people. Judo’s all about strategy. It’s not about muscle—it’s about using your opponent’s movement against them. The real fun comes when you figure out how to outwit, out-maneuver, and outsmart your opponent, all while making it look like a smooth, effortless throw.

And hey, Judo’s not just a mind game—it’s also fantastic for conditioning. Your body will get leaner, faster, and stronger. You'll build flexibility, explosive power, and a solid core. And those grueling grip fights? Totally worth it when you feel how much they improve your throws.

How Does Judo Enhance Other Martial Arts?

When you step onto the mat for Judo, you’ll start to notice some unexpected perks in your other martial arts too. The throws, the groundwork, the grip work—all of these techniques integrate seamlessly with your existing skills.

Judo is applicable without the gi

If you’re practicing Kali, Judo’s emphasis on leverage and balance is a game-changer. Think about it: you’re used to controlling distance and offense with weapons, right? But when you know how to throw and off-balance someone in the blink of an eye, it transforms the way you flow through a fight. You go from strike to takedown, and that transition? Smooth as butter.

In Silat, you’ll feel the same magic happen. Judo’s groundwork techniques (or ne-waza) will enhance your low stances, joint locks, and trapping. Ground control in Judo isn’t just about taking someone to the mat—it’s about dominating them there. So whether you’re using Silat’s quick strikes or Judo’s throws, you're stacking your game like a house of cards—perfectly balanced.

How Kali, Silat, and Judo Work Together

Now, let’s break it down even further. Kali, Silat, and Judo each bring something unique to the martial arts table. Kali gives you the skills to defend yourself at range—whether you’re dealing with sticks, knives, or just your empty hands. Control and distance are your friends, and Kali makes sure you’re always in control.

Silat takes it to a whole new level with its deceptive movement, low stances, and utilizing your environment to outsmart your opponent. Think of it as fluidity with a side of sneakiness. It’s the art of being tactical—weaving in and out of strikes with joint locks and close-quarters combat.

Then you’ve got Judo, the king of throws, grappling, and ground control. Judo isn’t just about standing—it’s about transitioning from standing to the ground with ease and grace (well, at least grace with a little sweat). And once you’re on the ground? You’re staying there—it’s your playground.

Now, imagine combining all three. You’ve got strikes from Kali, evasion and tactical movement from Silat, and takedowns from Judo. A complete martial artist who can adapt to any situation and finish strong—whether that’s with a strike, throw, or submission.

Des Moines Judo Academy: A Unique Opportunity

At Des Moines Judo Academy, we’re the only Judo dojo in the Des Moines area—you’d have to drive a couple of hours to the nearest one! But we’re lucky enough to also teach Kali, Silat, and Weapons right here at DSM Judo Academy. That’s a double whammy of awesomeness! This rare opportunity to train in multiple arts under one roof is something most schools don’t offer, and it’s an incredible advantage for anyone who wants a well-rounded martial arts experience.

Not every school is interested in expanding their scope to include multiple arts, and that’s perfectly okay. There’s a lot of merit in schools that want to focus on one style and become masters of it. However, here at DSM Judo Academy, we’re able to bridge multiple styles to give our students a comprehensive view of martial arts. Whether you’re looking to explore Judo as a standalone discipline or integrate it with your existing Kali or Silat practice, we’ve got you covered. It's a rare opportunity, and we’re proud to offer it.

The Takeaway

Whether you’re new to martial arts or have been practicing for years, Judo adds a critical layer to your martial arts toolkit. It’s not just about throws—it’s about control, timing, and leveraging your opponent’s energy. By combining Judo with the strikes and weapon skills of Kali and the deceptive, close-quarters combat of Silat, you’re building a martial artist who can handle any challenge that comes their way.

So, what are you waiting for? Get on the mat, embrace Judo’s art of balance, and watch how it complements your entire martial arts journey. Plus, with Kali and Silat on the side? You’ll be one of the most well-rounded martial artists out there.

Your Turn:

What other martial arts do you train in besides Judo? How do you see how other arts complement Judo, or how Judo enhances the skills you already have? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s keep the conversation rolling! After all, we’re all here to learn and level up together.

Student Promoted to Rokkyu, Securing White Belt Record

Jason Maluilo and Sensei Suhr

Jason Maluilo first began to grace the Des Moines Judo Academy with his presence in mid-August of 2024, attending classes two to four times a week as his work schedule permitted. With the exception of period of approximately three months, Jason continuing in this fashion, chasing skills rather than promotions, and content to remain a white belt. On May 21st, 2025, after a couple weeks of ribbing by certain of his fellow students and prodding from instructors, Jason tested for the rank of “rokkyu” or "yellow belt, and passed.

A typical judoka at the Des Moines Judo Academy who trains two days a week remains a white belt for approximately two months.

Jason ended his tenure as a white belt at a couple days after nine months, almost doubling the time of the previous holders’ record of 5 months.

Jason’s silent and observant nature made him easy to overlook, making this feat possible. Despite being reserved, his uchi-mata and drop seoi-nage speak for themselves, each reflecting the intense amount of training and attention to detail they received during his tenure as a white belt. Jason is most commonly seen at Monday and Wednesday classes and Saturday open mats, though lately has been frequenting Wednesday fundamentals classes. When off the mat, Jason is a skilled dancer, which led to him developing balance and body control which assist him in his study of Judo.

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Far Travelling Pair Promoted Together

From Right to Left - Sensei Pohl, Ian Schaff, Jon Milliedge, Sensei Hilleshiem

Ian and Jon, regulars at Saturday open mats, have taken the next step on their journey into the Way of Gentleness, by being promoted to “gokyu” or orange belt. The duo normally spend several hours every Saturday developing their skills from approximately 9:30 AM until the open mat host is done the day or events demand they yield (usually around 12:40 PM), so they can work master what they learn training with each other during weekday. On May 3rd, 2025, they chose to forego training to instead demonstrate what they’ve learned in the pursuit of recognition of their hard won skills. Testing was overseen by Sensei Hilleshiem and Sensei Pohl, who determined the two passed muster, while a few stragglers looked on.

Ian, a student of jujitsu, bujinkan, and kali-silat in addition to Judo. As to be expected his “newaza” or “ground fighting” (the portion of combat that takes place after one or more of the combatants has fallen to the ground) is more developed than his “nage waza” or throwing techniques, he not only demonstrated competence with the required number of throws, but demonstrated an affinity for tai-otoshi, o-goshi, and uchi-mata. When not training, Ian enjoys tabletop roleplaying games, making mead, hunting, and spending time with his beloved dog.

Jon, a judoka with an MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) and wrestling background, who also cross trains in jujitsu and bujinkan, has a more robust standing game of the pair, despite Ian having a better flare for technical details. Jon also posses boundless positivity and enthusiasm, which makes long training sessions go by and the blink of an eye. While his foot sweeps won him gold and silver in the Governor’s Cup earlier this year, and even earned praise from Sensei Parkhill, Jon chose to instead show off his o-soto-gari, ippon seoi-nage, and tani-otoshi, all of which he’s been drilling endlessly since March. When off the mat, Jon spends most of his time with his family, being married and a father.

TLC for Your Judo Gi: A Little Love Goes a Long Way!

At DSM Judo Academy, we know that a well-maintained Gi isn’t just a clean uniform—it’s an essential tool for your training. Your Gi works hard for you, so it’s only fair you show it a little TLC! Here’s how you can keep your Judo Gi in top shape, so it’s ready for every throw, roll, and grapple.

Step 1: Pre-Treat Stains (No One Likes a Dirty Collar! )

Before you toss your Gi in the wash, give it some love by inspecting it for stains or tough spots, especially around the collar and armpits (where sweat loves to hang out!). If you see a stain, grab a mild stain remover or make a paste of baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and voilà—ready to wash!

Step 2: Wash Separately (Your Gi Deserves a Solo Ride )

Always wash your Gi separately from other clothes. Not only will this avoid lint transfer (goodbye, fuzz!) but it also helps prevent damage to the fabric. Turn your Gi inside out to protect the fabric and patches, and use cold water to avoid shrinkage. Keep it cool—your Gi will thank you!

Step 3: Gentle Detergent (Be Kind to Your Skin & Your Gi )

Use a mild, fragrance-free detergent that’s easy on both your skin and your Gi. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners—they can weaken those tough fibers over time. We want your Gi to be as strong as your throws, not falling apart after a few washes!

Step 4: Spin Gently (No Need for a Wild Ride )

Set the washing machine to a gentle cycle—your Gi doesn’t need to go on a rollercoaster ride! Don’t overload the machine—let the jacket and pants move around with room to spare, reducing wear and tear.

Step 5: Air Dry (Sunlight Is Not Your Friend )

Say it with us: Never use the dryer! Heat from the dryer breaks down fabric fibers faster than you can say "Ippon!" Hang your Gi on a sturdy hanger or drying rack in a well-ventilated area. Remember, direct sunlight may weaken the fabric and cause fading, so keep it cool and shady.

Step 6: Air Dry with Care (The Right Conditions = A Happy Gi! )

• Temperature Matters: Aim to air dry your Gi in temperatures between 50–75°F (10–24°C). This prevents moisture retention in cold weather and overheating in extreme warmth.

• Avoid Freezing Temps: If it's below 40°F (4°C), your Gi may not dry properly, leading to musty smells. Keep it indoors in a well-ventilated room in these conditions.

• Watch for Heat: Temperatures above 85°F (29°C) can damage the fabric over time. If you're drying in warmer weather, hang your Gi in the shade to protect it from the sun’s harsh rays.

• Ventilation is Key: Whether inside or outside, make sure there’s good airflow around your Gi. Open a window, use a fan—anything to keep the air circulating and your Gi drying evenly.

Bonus Tip: Show Your Gi Some TLC Regularly!

Just like you take care of your body for peak performance, your Gi deserves the same care to keep it looking fresh and lasting longer. A little TLC after every training session can go a long way in making sure your Gi is always ready for the next class!

Kids Kick Butt at 2025 Governor’s Cup

Des Moines Judo kids with Sensei Hanssen

On March 15th of 2025, nearly an hour before the adult competition, Sensei Ryan Hanssen led a squad of five (5) young Judoka from our children’s judo program as they took to the mat for the honor of our dojo and personal glory. Jayce and Brayden Hanssen, Cillian Nizzi, Brogan Lindsey, and Aurora Wright all took to the mat in their respective divisions to demonstrate the skill and athleticism developed through long hours of training, and test their mettle against the best competitors they could find.

While each competitor’s matches were action packed and worthy of review, this author would only expound upon each competitor’s best performance for his loyal audience.

Brayden and Cillian each rapidly defeated the third competitor in their bracket and met one another in a heated match to determine who would take gold or have to settle for silver. Brayden tried his best to bring his opponent down with Hanssen family’s signature Koshi-Guruma, but Cillian presented a competent defense each time, hipping in and posturing up. On offense Cillian demonstrated a far more mobile style of judo, using circular motion to disbalance his opponent to create openings for Uchi-Mata and O-Soto-Gari. Unfortunately for Cillian, Brayden, being a seasoned competitor was able to meet and overcome this tactic through strategic us of grips and defensive posturing. After a reset by the referee, both combatants switched tactics, opting for a brief exchange of foot sweeps, with Cillian bringing Brayden to the ground for a non-scoring Tai-Otoshi. The two continued in this fashion for a short while longer before Cillian was finally able to catch Brayden off-guard with a will timed Uchi-Mata for victory by Ippon. The two fought well.

Aurora’s determination and aggression allowed her to take a bronze medal in her division, with her most exciting match being against Isabella from Sempai Judo Academy. Both girls came out guns blazing, charging one another to immediately grip up and throw a flurry of O-Soto-Gari at one another. While Aurora was the first to fall in her match, immediately escaping her opponent’s attempt at Kesa-Gatame, she was quick to follow up with an O-Soto-Otoshi, scoring a yuko, and to capitalize on her success by using Kesa-Gatame herself. The next bout yielded a solid Waza-Ari for Aurora off O-Soto-Gari, prompting her opponent’s team of coachs to prompt Isabella to make a drastic change in tactics. After another hard fought bout with no score, Aurora and Isabella clashed again, with Isabella disbalancing Aurora mid-attack, knocking them both over. In the mad scramble for position, Isabella was able to out scurry Aurora and secure a firm pin via Kesa-Gatame, which she maintained long enough for Ippon. While Aurora might not have won this match, which lasted over three minutes, she was in the lead when the final bout began, had maintained a lead for most of the match, and fought hard to the bitter end. Aurora should take pride in her accomplishment and in that it took her competitor benefitting from the combined experience of Sempai’s extended coaching staff to overcome her.

On his path to silver medal, Brogan faced off against Luca from Teikiatsu Judo, in a match lasting only fifteen (15) seconds. Luca assumed an aggressive and forward stance from the onset of the match, immediately charging to grip up with Brogan. Rather than meeting Luca’s charge directly, as many of our other junior competitor’s would have, Brogan embraced the teaching of “Seiryoku Zenyo” or “maximum efficiency",” shifting to the side and out of Luca’s path as he attempted O-Goshi. Luca stopped his forward charge in time to spin Brogan in almost a complete circle, which Brogan responded to by shifting neatly into Harai-Goshi followed by Kesa-Gatame on the ground. The pin was unnecessary, as the throw’s satisfying “thawp” told both the referee and the crowd Brogan has scored an Ippon.

Lastly, Jayce got to meet his rival, Asher Bruner, in the most recent in a long line of contests between the two. The most recent match was a furious affair, both upright and on the ground, ranging across the entirety of the tatami. The first bought ended with Jayce up a Waza-Ari from De-Ashi-Barai, with the follow up on the ground resulting in no further score. The second bout, in which both competitors were making textbook demonstrations of the down then up method of kuzushi, saw Asher tie the score using Uchi-Mata, with neither judoka able to score on the ground as follow up. After two bouts with the young judoka’s duel ranging to the edges of the mat and yielding no score, the rivals clashed a final time. Jayce managed to get his lapel hand around Asher’s neck and began to drag him into the Hanssen’s signature Koshi-Guruma. As the two spun with Jayce creeping his hips into position to reap his final score, Asher, familiar with the familial technique from prior encounters, shouldered into Jayce and threw out a leg, brining Jayce to the ground with Tani-Otoshi for Ippon. Jayce took home a well earned silver medal, and this author looks forward to seeing what Jayce brings to overcome his rival when next they meet.

Honor and glory to our young competitors! We all look forward to great things from you in the future!

Rokkyu Duo Clean Up at 2025 Governor’s Cup

From Left to Right - Kasten Lappe, Jon Milledge, Ian Schaff

On March 15th, 2025, two yellow belts or “rokkyu” from the Des Moines Judo Academy made their competitive debut at the Iowa Governor’s Cup Tournament, which was hosted by Teikiatsu Judo in Ames, Iowa. Adult competitor turnout was a sharp decline from 2024, during which sensei and academy founder Bret Parkhill made his final regular appearance coaching. Despite adult participation being thinned by scheduling and recent injuries, Karsten Lappe and Jon Milledge made up for quantity with quality.

Karsten, is a young man of 22 years of age who attends most, if not all, weekday classes at our dojo and occasional Saturday open mats. Standing 6’7”, Karsten fought in the 220lbs+ senior men’s open rank, winning both his matches against the green belt, or “yonkyu,” Brent Shipley from Sempai Judo. Karsten’s first match was won by application of the “renraku waza'“ (combination technique; when two or more attacks are made in sequence) Uchi-Mata, followed by O-Soto-Gari, earning an “Ippon” (full point, which wins a match). His second match was won by scorring Ippon via “Osae Komi” (pin), a varient of Yoko-Shiho-Gatame (commonly referred to as side control in jujitsu), after taking his opponent to the ground without scoring, securing the gold medal for his division. A southpaw, Karsten is known in our club for his explosive strength, preference for extremely high collar grips, and his love of Uchi-Mata, which he’s striven to improve since he first arrived at the Des Moines Judo Academy.

Jon Milledge, a man of 35 who stands at approximately 5’8”, fought in both the senior men’s middle weight novice, and the senior men’s 161lbs & Under open rank divisions. Jon, an mma fighter in the process of winding down his mma career, is one of a pair of far travelling Judoka who consistently grace our dojo at Saturday open mats and the occasional Thursday class. Jon fought five total matches between the two divisions. While Jon lost his first match by throw for Ippon, he went on to only have one more loss for the day, by submission while attempting to pass guard. Jon’s extensive drilling of “ashi waza” (leg/foot techniques), particularly foot sweeps, showed, as he scored “Waza Ari” (half point, two of which are required to win a match) by both Sasae Tsurikomi Ashi, and De Ashi Barai. While he did win one additional match by submission, the highlight of the adult competition of this tournament was an Ippon scored using Nidan Ko-Soto-Gari as a counter to Uchi-Mata, further demonstrating Jon’s ashi waza dominance. Sensei Parkhill, reviewing a video of the match, commented that the counter was “a thing of beauty!” Jon took gold in the open rank, and silver in the novice.

Despite being the only adult judoka to take to the mat or “tatami” to represent our Academy at this tournament, they were not alone. Ian, Jon’s long time training partner and travelling companion, was also present to give his support despite being wounded. Jon’s family was also present to cheer him on, and were enthusiastic, if frequently confused. The three are seen together in the cover photo for this entry, celebrating their victory.

Classes Cancelled March 5th, 2025, Due to Snow

Stay home and stay warm!

CLASSES CANCELLED FEBRUARY 12TH, 2025, DUE TO SNOW!

The title kinda speaks for itself people. Stay home, stay safe, stay warm, and put the couch in osae komi.

Brown Belt Sneaks in Surprise Promotion Mid-Celebration

On Monday, December 30th, 2024, amid the fanfare surrounding Ryan Hanssen’s promotion to “Shodan” or blackbelt a smaller, but no less significant, promotion was issued.

John Long, the man who served as “uke” (the person upon whom a technique is performed; the fancy way of saying living throwing dummy) for the Nage-no-Kata (the performance of a pre-arranged sequence of techniques to demonstrate technical proficiency), was promoted from “Sankyu,” the first rank of brown belt, to “Nikyu,” the second rank of brown belt. Serving as uke for kata is one method of earning a promotion, as doing so properly demonstrates competence, if not mastery of several fundamental skills for any “judoka” (judo practitioner), most particularly “ukemi” (the skill of falling without harm or injury). Serving as uke for any kata requires extensive training prior to even undertake the weeks of practice necessary. It is also a substantial time commitment, as most judo kata are interactive, meaning the “tori” (person performing the technique) cannot practice without the uke being present.

John is an active and competitive judoka, maintaining a an extremely fit physique, in contrast to his laid back and easy going attitude. Outside of judo, he enjoys travel, often spending weeks at a time in Asia, craft beer, comedy shows, and somehow finding time to fit in anime and videogames. On the mat, John is known at the Des Moines Judo & Sambo Academy for his powerful “uchi-mata” or “inner thigh throw,” which can be described as both elegant and text book. Of late, he has been diversifying his arsenal by working on his “seoi-nage” (shoulder throw), and has recently been noticed dropping white belts with foot sweeps.

Mr. Long’s well earned promotion leaves only “Ikkyu,” the final brown belt rank, between him and a blackbelt.

(John is show wearing his brown belt in the associated picture, which is from when he received his Sankyu in April. This is because it appears John snuck out on Monday without getting his picture take. Bad John, old picture for you!)

Accomplished Instructor adds one more to the List - Black Belt

From Left to Right - Sensei Rodriguez, Ryan Hanssen, Sensei Volcheck, Sensei Pohl, Sensei Burklund

Our dojo has long been honored to feature Sensei Ryan Hanssen as an instructor for the children’s classes, as well as a proctor in adult classes. Sensei Hanssen is a veteran and law enforcement officer, and has been certified to instruct for both, in addition to being a Judoka (judo practitioner) and tournament coach for the past eight years. Judo is not Sensei Hanssen’s first martial art or combat sport, having previously boxed extensively. Ryan managed to achieve all this while raising his two sons, Brayden (5th Junior Rank) and Jayce Hanssen (4th Junior Rank), who both also study jujitsu and muay thai (a brutal style of kickboxing that serves as the foundation for many MMA fighter’s striking game). All this is achieved while being active in his church and community, managing a marriage, and serving as his family’s primary source of transportation (due to disability related complications). Despite the stress and fatigue involved in all of this, Sensei Hanssen is perpetually positive, upbeat, and solution oriented. Until recently his was also “Ikkyu,” or the final rank of brown belt.

On Monday, December 30th, 2024, the students of the Des Moines Judo & Sambo Academy, as well as many of his loved ones, gathered to watch Sensei Ryan Hanssen perform the “Nage-no-Kata,” a set routine of throws to demonstrate skill an competence in technique, if not necessarily combat ability, with John Long serving as his “uke” (person being thrown). This demonstration was the final requirement necessary for Ryan to receive his promotion to “Shodan” or the 1st Degree Blackbelt, which was granted immediately following the performance.

Congratulations and well wishes to the newly minted blackbelt, who chose a spectacular way to close out the year! (Ryan appears right of center in the associated photo in a white gi).

Armored Combat Judoka Receives Yellow Belt

On Monday, December 23rd, 2024, Adam Thompson, tested for and was given his yellow belt or “rokyu.” This initial promotion requires a student demonstrate a a knowledge of some basic judo terminology and knowledge concerning the creation of judo, as well as several basic techniques.

Adam has been a student of the Des Moines Judo & Sambo Academy for months, attending as frequently as his obligations to employment, wife, two children, and blacksmithing practice permit him to do so. He most commonly attends Monday and Wednesday classes, and occasionally makes time for Saturday open mats, time he primarily uses to drill. In addition to judo, Adam also is a competitor in Armor MMA, a form of armed competition where participants are clad in European medieval armor.

Mass Promotion on Monday

Four members who regularly attend Monday classes were all promoted on Monday, December 16, 2024.

Christian Wilson and Kasten Lappe both recieved their first promotion, moving from white belt, which has no Japanese name in the USA Judo ranking system, to yellow belt or “rokyu.” Both young men began training a few months ago, and have wrestling backgrounds, which have benefitted them in transitioning to judo. Both have worked hard, with Christian having already experienced his first competitive win at the Governor’s Cup in November of this year.

Logan Ballanger and Jacob van Cleaf both recieved their third promotion, transferring from orange belt or “gokyu,” to green belt or “yonkyu". The training partners and rivals made fast friends upon first meeting in their first week of training at the Des Moines Judo & Sambo Academy. Since then, they’ve committed to making this journey together, being consistently promoted at the same time, with each at times delaying testing to allow the other more time to prepare and be certain of success. The bantering pair can frequently be found training together, both in our dojo and attending open mats elsewhere to test and further develop their skills.

Both pairs are featured in photograph, along with several of the instructors who helped them make it this far.

Brown Belt Promotion for Long-Standing Member

From Left to Right- Sensei Suhr, Romnick Pamatmat

On December 9, 2024, Romnick Pamatmat tested for and received his first brown belt rank of “sankyu.” Most judo organizations consider the brown belt to the tipping point where you are no longer considered a beginner, and no longer eligible able to participate in the novice division of competition. Attaining the rank is typically requires years of study and practice, as well as demonstrating mastery over several techniques, and competence with several more. The testing is also academic, requiring knowledge of the history of judo and Japanese terminology.

Romnick is a regularly attending member of the Academy and inspiration; not only finding time for health, training, and fitness, but also to raise his three children, all while keeping his wife (and the light of his life) smiling. On the mat, Romnick is a quick and dexterous opponent, frequently darting in and out of gripping range to make lightning fast attacks, most notable drop tai-otoshi, and seoi-nage.

His promotion is well deserved, and this author looks forward to seeing him develop through the ranks remaining between him and the first degree black belt or “sho-dan.”

Dojo Holiday Gathering Scheduled

Des Moines Judo & Sambo Academy is having its annual holiday get together. This year, we’ll gather on December 10th, 2024, at 5:30PM. The venue is the Waterfront Seafood Market, located at 2900 University Ave, West Des Moines, IA 50266. We’ll be meeting in the party room. The atmosphere is anticipated to be casual and child friendly. Please contact Sensei Ryan Suhr with a head count for those you expect to bring.

Second Part of Far Travelling Pair Promoted to Yellow Belt

Ian, a regular attendee of Saturday open mats and semi-regular Thursday student, travelling an hour each way from south western Iowa, has finally earned his promotion. Testing at the end of open mat on Saturday, November 22rd, 2024, with Sensei Gary Hilleshiem, Ian earned his yellow belt or “rokkyu.” Ian’s long time friend Jon Millidge served as his “uke” or “person upon whom a throw is performed” for his examination, and stood with him for his promotion picture. Ian is featured in his signature olive drab gi, with its Des Moines Judo & Sambo Academy patch prominently featured.

Ian has a strong general interest in martial arts, and studies jujitsu in addition to judo, as well as several other styles of armed and unarmed combat. However, due to a lifelong dream of studying Judo, Ian began making the drive to Des Moines several months ago to become a member of the Des Moines Judo & Sambo Academy, and we are richer for his choice.

Leo Returns to teach Thursday Evenings

The living legend Leo Rodriguez has returned from his sabbatical and resumed training at our dojo, in addition to running the Grinnell location of Squared BJJ. Leo has stepped up to begin teaching on Thursday evenings in addition to assisting with the children’s classes on Tuesday and Thursday.