Each month we are going to feature a United Judo of Tampa judoka and ask them ten silly questions about their judo experience.   Our December spotlight goes to junior instructor, Johnny Desmet.    Here are his answers:



​1. When, where and why did you start practicing judo?
Nine years ago because we were looking for a new family activity after Karate (long story).   We started at the YMCA learning with Sensei Andy.
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2. What was your first impression of judo class?
It was very different from previous martial arts we tried because there were no punches or kicks.   I had to adjust to the new style but found it quite enjoyable and made friends quickly.

3. What other martial arts have you practiced?
Shotokan Karate.

4. What was your funniest moment in judo class?
When my brothers and I went overboard with the chocolate fountain and the holiday party one year.
   
5. What is your favorite technique and why?
Drop morote seoi nage because I was much shorter than my opponent for a long time.

6. How has judo helped you with other aspects of your life?
It has helped me mature by learning to give way and provide a great stress reliever through high school.

7. Other than judo, what do you like to do for fun?
Play video games (League of Legends and Skyrim) and spend time with my family and friends.

8. Would you rather get mat burn on your face, be choked out, or thrown by Sensei John with makikomi?
Choked out though I try to avoid it.   Being thrown by dad is like being run over by a train. 

9. Blue gi, white gi or no gi?
White gi - it's easier to get the blood out of.

10. How would you describe your judo persona (competitor, teacher, recreational player, fitness trainer, reluctant judoka, other)
Teacher and recreational player.   I enjoy helping others make their judo better while still getting a good workout myself.

Have a judo club that you would like us to feature?   Drop us an email at unitedjudooftampa@gmail.com and tell us about your class.   Looking for more judo classes?    Check out our About Judo page for links to judo clubs in the Tampa area and beyond.

Each month we are going to feature a United Judo of Tampa judoka and ask them ten silly questions about their judo experience.   Our first spotlight goes to long-time member, Sebastian Castaldi.    Here are his answers:

1. When, where and why did you start practicing judo?
About six years ago at the YMCA with Sensei Andy.
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2. What was your first impression of judo class?
Definitely tougher than I thought... I was under the impression that Judo was all about throws, but quickly realized that judo also has a comprehensive ground game.  After John welcomed me with a baseball-bat choke, and choked me out unconscious ... I knew right there and then, I was there to stay .

3. What other martial arts have you practiced?
In chronological order: Kung-fu, Taekwondo, Kuk-sool-won, Karate, Kickboxing, MMA, Judo.

4. What was your funniest moment in judo class?
The only funny story I can think right now, it was funny/scary at the same time... I was doing Shiai with Dave, and I did a drop-ippon, somehow his face hit the back of my head and broke his nose... it was pretty scary at first, until Dave (tough as nails), grabbed his own nose and cracked it back into place and said... "It's all good now, I'm used to it."
   
5. What is your favorite technique and why?
Tani-Otoshi, I like it because it is nice, simple and effective.

6. How has judo helped you with other aspects of your life?
Judo and martial arts in general, it is a representation of life itself, it teaches you through respect, hard work and perseverance to be a better person.

7. Other than judo, what do you like to do for fun?
Get together with friends, dance.  I compliment my judo with strength training and Triathlons, it is a nice compliment as it helps with endurance.

8. Would you rather get mat burn on your face, be choked out, or thrown by Sensei John with makikomi?
Anything but John's makikomis.  I guess I would pick face-burns since I get them all the time anyway.

9. Blue gi, white gi or no gi?
White GI, more comfortable, smells better, and it is the traditional Judo Gi :)    I like the freedom of movement with no-gi, but I'm paranoid about staph infections, they are very common among no-gi practitioners.

10. How would you describe your judo persona (competitor, teacher, recreational player, fitness trainer, reluctant judoka, other)
When I was younger I was 100% competitor, as I grew older, I do it more for fitness (recreational player), to stay in shape, out of injuries, as well as having a good time with friends and family.

Please join us for our 2017 end of year celebration on Saturday, January 20th, 2018 from noon to 4pm.   The picnic will be held at Hampton Park, 16301 Tampa Palms Blvd W, Tampa, FL.   There will be no judo class at the YMCA this day. 

Food and drinks will be provided and there will be music, games and activities for everyone - families are encouraged to attend.   

Let's take some questions:

But Sensei John, I haven't been to judo class in months / years.
All the more reason to come back and visit old friends.   Everyone is welcome.

But Sensei John, will there be pulled pork and hotdogs?    Yes.   But I am a vegan.   Well, then we will also have veggies with dip, rice, chips and salsa, and pulled pork (in case you want to cheat).

Will there be a chocolate fountain?   No

Should I wear my judo uniform?  No
Should I wear my United Judo of Tampa tee-shirt or hoodie?  Yes

What can I bring?   Thanks to our successful fundraisers, uniform sales and donations, our club will supply food, beverages, games and activities.    Just bring your family and be ready for a great time.

Congratulations to our summer promotions:

Anthony Murashkin - Green
Gregory Murashkin - Green
Alivia Kearn - Green
Leo Lee - Yellow