Judo is one of the many martial arts that anyone can do to discipline themselves and learn about self-defense. Unlike other traditional martial arts, Judo does not use strikes. Instead Judo wrestlers grapple using their opponent to their advantage.

Judo first originated in Japan in 1882, founded by Kano Jigoro. It was intended to be a fusion of Jujitsu, another martial art and some mental discipline techniques. Judo also was the first martial art to become an Olympic sport.

“You’re not only practicing sport; you’re learning how to defend yourself,” said Mr. Jesus Uriarte, Modern Languages Chair. Mr. Uriarte is a long-time practitioner.

Now at ILS, both students and faculty as well as staff have the opportunity to take Judo as an elective or join the adult after-school club. The Judo teacher is Ms. Driulis Gonzalez, a triple-world and Olympic champion.

Ms. Driulis Gonzalez became the first Latin American woman to be recognized by the International Judo Federation’s Hall of Fame, cementing herself as a Judo Legend. Ms. Gonzalez first got on the Olympic podium in 1992, successfully becoming champion is 1996. She became one of the only people in Judo to participate at the Olympics five times and leave with a medal four of those times.

“Judo has become of the greatest things to happen to me, and I’m so glad to have the honor to represent my country at the Olympics,” said Ms. Gonzalez.

Taking Judo at ILS has been a difficult yet rewarding challenge students.

“I’ve been struggling to learn, but now that I understand some of it, I feel more safe whenever I go out in public,” said sophomore Gianluca Rua.

Senior Nicolas Black appreciates the opportunity to get back into martial arts, finding it both rigorous and rewarding. In the past Nicolas practiced karate.

“The class ramped up very quickly with basic movements and right away we were learning how to throw someone on a mat. It doesn’t feel rushed, yet we are making a good amount of progress,” he said.