An Olympic Sport. An Art. A Way of Life.
Judo is best described as a special martial art derived from Ju-jitsu, using throws, pins, and submissions. It is an Olympic sport, a means of self-defense, and a practice that teaches discipline, builds self-confidence, and provides an outstanding recreation and fitness experience. At the YMCA of the Fox Cities, our Judo program is offered at the Neenah-Menasha YMCA and led by one of the most distinguished Judo instructors in the country. Classes are available for children ages 6 and up through adult, with beginner and advanced levels for both youth and adults.
World-Class Instruction at the Y
Our Judo program is led by Sensei Mehdi Mohammadian — a Kudan, 9th degree black belt in Judo and member of both the United States Martial Arts Association Hall of Fame (2002) and the Wisconsin Judo Hall of Fame (2014). Sensei Mehdi began teaching Judo in the United States in 1964 at the Oshkosh YMCA and has been teaching at the Neenah-Menasha YMCA since 1984. He is assisted by a team of experienced black belts: Shandra Stevenson (3rd degree), Katie Sell (4th degree), and Adam Stevenson (2nd degree).
Frequently Asked Questions
Judo is a martial art derived from Ju-jitsu that uses throws, pins, and submissions. It is an Olympic sport, a form of self-defense, and a discipline that builds confidence, fitness, and character.
Classes are available for children ages 6–13 (Jr. classes) and teens and adults ages 13 and up. Anyone over 13 who wishes to join a Jr. class must be part of a participating family.
All Judo classes are held at the Neenah-Menasha YMCA.
No prior experience is required for Beginner classes. The Jr. Beginners and Beginner Adult classes are designed specifically for new students with no judo background.
Advancement from Beginner to Advanced requires passing a skills test. Once a participant successfully passes the test, they move on to the Advanced class held on Thursdays for both youth and adults.
Register online through the program listing on this page. Y members enjoy priority registration and reduced rates. Questions? Contact us at gro.seiticxofacmy@ofniy.
