Yuma Territorial Judo

We are a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

 Our mission is to grow the way of Judo in Yuma, Arizona and the surrounding area.

Where We Began

For over 8 years, the OC Johnson Elementary Judo Class has been a cornerstone of the Yuma Territorial Judo Club, inspiring young students with the values of discipline, respect, and perseverance. This long-standing program provides a safe and supportive space for kids to learn self-defense, build confidence, and develop life skills through the art of Judo. It’s more than a class—it’s a tradition of empowerment and growth.

Our New Program in Wellton

The Wellton Judo Program, part of the Yuma Territorial Judo Club, brings the art of Judo to rural communities in Yuma County. Focused on building confidence, discipline, and respect, the program teaches self-defense while promoting physical fitness and personal growth. Our classes emphasize de-escalation techniques for bullying situations and foster an inclusive environment where students of all ages can learn and thrive. Join us to experience the benefits of martial arts and become part of a supportive community.

"The purpose of the study of judo is to perfect yourself and to contribute to society." ~ Jigoro Kano

Yuma Territorial Judo Club incorporated and became a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Corporation in 2019.

We believe that Judo should be available to everyone regardless of race, gender, or how much money they have.


All the funds that are raised through tuition and fundraising are used to further our program.

Our mission has been and always will be to grow the way of Judo in the Yuma area.

Judo is Life

Experience Counts

Our instructors have completed:


  • Background Check
  • CPR and First Aid
  • Safe Sport™
  • HEADS UP
  • Diversity and Inclusion Training
  • Coaches Training and Certifications
  • Special Needs Coach Training*

*we have several special needs instructors

Peace of Mind

When you or your child becomes a member of the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU), it covers your child with insurance in case of injury. 


Best of all if your child plays another sport - they may already be a member of AAU, and then you just need to add Judo to their membership.

Bright and Clean

The pandemic has taught us all to be more diligent in how we clean up before and after ourselves. It is no different for our mats and equipment. They are cleaned before and after every class.


We are currently located at OC Johnson  Elementary School Cafeteria. We would like to thank the Yuma School District for giving us the opportunity to continue to serve the Yuma community in our new home.

Challenge Yourself

All our clinics are designed to bring together members of various dojos for the purpose of broadening their experience of Judo and related topics. 

Besides offering a wider range of instructors than is possible within the dojo setting, national, regional and local clinics and camps provide the opportunity to get to know members of the larger Judo community.

Why We Require AAU Membership

The Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) has been raising champions for more than a century. Since it's inception in 1888, the AAU has set the standard to and for amateur sports in the US with one goal in mind: "Sports for All, Forever".


Yuma Territorial Judo club (AAU club number W38WC6) is a proud member of the AAU. All of our members are required to join AAU.

Description Title

We are a USJA-registered club. This allows our students to register their ranks with one of the major national judo organizations. 


Becoming a member of USJA gives students an added layer of insurance and opens them up to additional possibilities including participation in tournaments. 


Membership in USJA is optional for students, but is recommended if they are interested in competing.

Try Judo for Free

We’re always happy to welcome new students to our club. Interested? 


Come join us for a couple sessions and find out if you like it.

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