Good Luck Jeff!

Jeff places 9th at the World University Games in China

Monday July 29, 2013 will be Jeff Fujimoto’s last practice here at EBJI (at least for a while anyway!). The recent grad of UC Berkeley will be headed to UCLA’s Medical School to pursue his goal of becoming a medical doctor.

Jeff joined EBJI in early 2011 wanting to improve his competitive judo career. Within in a year under the guidance of Matsumoto Sensei and Sayaka Sensei, Jeff he had moved up to the number two ranking in the nation in the men’s 60kg category. In addition, he had the opportunity of representing the USA at the World University Games in Shenzhen, China where he placed 9th and accomplished his goal of winning his first Senior National medal (bronze in 2011).

Since joining EBJI, Jeff has become an integral part of our dojo community. Even after retiring from competition, he continued to attend practice regularly to help the junior competitors and assisted with the beginning kid’s class once a week.

Jeff reflects on his time here at EBJI:

“At EBJI, I improved dramatically as a competitor and judo player. I knew what my goals were and had the resources necessary to accomplish them. Matsumoto Sensei and Sayaka sensei were gracious enough to give me their time and effort, which went a long way given their years of experience. Competing at a high level was an incredible experience and I am grateful to have found EBJI even though it was towards the end of my career. Thank you to all of the members of EBJI who helped me achieve my goals, especially Matsumoto and Sayaka sensei. It is because of the dedication from people like them and others at EBJI that judo is able to endure and thrive”

We’ll miss you Jeff and best of luck!