About the Club.
Tori Judo is a registered judo club and a proud member of the Australian Kodokan Judo Association, the World Judo Federation, and the Victorian Amateur Judo Union. Established in 2013, Tori Judo traces its roots back to the Shudokan Judo Academy, which was led by Ivan and Celie Zavetchanos, with origins dating back to 1947-48. The club is committed to promoting and growing the martial art of judo in alignment with the objectives of the Victorian Amateur Judo Union.Tori Judo specializes in judo classes for all ages and skill levels, with an emphasis on every aspect of the martial art: fitness and agility, technique, randori & shiai (sparring and contest), and kata (official/traditional forms). The club also incorporates practical self-defense applications, ensuring a well-rounded judo education.
Founder & Head Coach
Our head coach has an impressive 23-year career in judo, highlighted by his 4th Dan black belt from the Australian Kodokan Judo Association. His martial arts journey began at age six with Wu Shu, followed by five years of training before transitioning to athletics, focusing on 800m and 1500m races, along with 400m and cross-country running. His judo career started at age 18, where his extensive cross-training knowledge brought a unique competitive edge. A notable achievement includes winning a bronze medal at the WJF World Judo Championships in Brazil.He has trained and competed extensively across Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, representing both the IJF (International Judo Federation) and AKJA (Australian Kodokan Judo Association). His competitive journey began with the Kiwi Club Osaka Goodwill Tournament in Japan at the age of 18, and since then, he has competed at both national and international levels, including multiple national championships in Australia in shiai and kata. His accomplishments include being crowned Grand Champion at the Fukuda Kata Tournament in San Francisco.In 2023, he defeated and extended his long national titles run as the AKJA Champion in the Seniors Under 100kg and Masters Under 100kg categories champion, consistently retaining his titles across various categories over the years. Previously ranked #4 in the Olympic rankings in Australia in the under 90kg category, he has competed in under 81kg, 90kg, and under 100kg categories, as well as in open and team tournaments, training with national teams around the world. These experiences have enriched his skills and teaching approach.In addition to his competitive and coaching credentials, our head coach regularly travels to Japan, training at the International Budo University, and visiting the Kodokan Judo Institute in Tokyo to deepen his practical knowledge of judo. His involvement in technical projects in Japan further enhances his expertise.Jakub is also well-connected with Chinese judo federations and local manufacturers that supply top-quality judo equipment to Japan. His ability to source high-grade judo equipment for Australia and beyond ensures that Tori Judo provides the best gear for its students and clients. Jakub’s deep understanding of quality and specialized products plays a crucial role in developing top-level practitioners. His extensive experience and innovative projects make Tori Judo a premier destination for aspiring judokas and those interested in the intersection of technology and traditional martial arts. Join us to train under a seasoned champion and a visionary leader in the world of judo.