Submitted
The Battleford Judo Club has many reasons to celebrate.
One of their members, Curtis Suberlak, was recently promoted to Shodan (1st degree black belt) by the provincial grading committee of Judo Saskatchewan.
Mel Kozlowski, club sensei, recommended Curtis to the grading committee. Curtis and his uke (practice partner), Slavko Pristojko, travelled to the South Cormon Judo Club for a two-day grading seminar and exam. Before being invited to appear before the provincial grading board, a member must meet standards established by Judo Canada and the International Judo Federation. Points are awarded for: proficiency in techniques, years of active involvement in judo, competition, and for promotion of the sport.
Curtis was required to complete a written exam and to demonstrate a wide range of judo techniques. During the techniques session a uke will be thrown approximately 50 times, pinned to the mats, choked, and be on the receiving end of several arm locks. Slavko filled this role with excellence and gained the points and experience to be promoted to Ikkyu (brown belt).
Since achieving the rank of Shodan, Curtis has assumed the position of lead instructor and sensei of the Battleford Judo Club. Mel Kozlowski, who has held that position for approximately 30 years, will continue to assist Curtis.
Club member, Frank Beier recently celebrated his 90th birthday. He shares his birth date (Oct. 28) with Jigaro Kano, the founder of Kodokan Judo. At 90 years of age, Frank is still actively involved in judo. Frank is part of a multi-disciplinary team that delivers the ECLIPSE program at the North Battleford Comprehensive High School. This is a program for at risk youth that incorporates the non-violent aspects of judo (including its moral code) with group counseling, and social skills development. Judo Saskatchewan, the Battleford Judo Club, Living Sky School Division and Child and Youth Services partner to offer this program. The partnership will be celebrating its 10th anniversary in December.
The local club was recently awarded the title of Judo Club of the Year from Judo Sask. During the presentation of the award, TV Taylor, President of Judo Saskatchewan, said the local club was chosen (from the province’s 19 clubs) in large part for the ECLIPSE program, and also for its recent hosting of judo at the Saskatchewan Winter Games.
Kozlowski said, “The ECLIPSE Program and the Winter Games have benefited from the collaboration of many agencies that believe in our community and in its youth. Likewise, the quantity and quality of our volunteers also demonstrate an exceptional community spirit. Thanks to everyone for giving us so many reasons to celebrate.”
