Annual Awards

We would like to recognize the following people for the 2009 annual awards.  These awards are based on commitment, competition and assistance.  We could not offer the judo and programs that we offer without the help of these, and many others, including parents and other supporters of our programs.  Congratulations to all!

• Junior Player of the Year- Camryn Conroy. Camryn is consistent in attending class and eager to learn.  She puts 110% in everything she does and it truly shows.  The has a very impressive competition record, and I am sure that her success will continue in the future, both on and off the mat.
• Senior Player of the Year- Travis Serna. Travis is what I consider a true warrior.  He constantly improves not only himself, but all those around him.  He is consistent in training, and is a great ambassador for judo.  Travis is also an instructor for Lovato’s training center in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and started judo to compliment his BJJ.  After spending some time in judo he began entering judo competitions, and has also coached our team at the Heartland Team Tournament .  Travis and Mike will be starting a competition judo class on Friday evenings, and he plans to compete in the US Judo Nationals this spring, and the BJJ World Championships this summer.
• Instructor of the Year- Ryan Willoughby. Ryan has been training at OKCDT for 10 years and has just received his Shodan (black belt).  Ryan has taken over the beginning kid’s class and has been assisting in the junior class for some time.  I am constantly getting compliments on Ryan’s coaching skills from parents.  He is a great competitor and coach.  Ryan plans to compete in the US Judo Nationals this fall in Myrtle Beach, SC.
• Warrior’s Awards- Andre Caldwell and Lawrence Wilkowske. Andre and Lawrence were both newcomers to OKCDT in 2009, but have impressed us with their dedication to learn and progress.  Both have been consistent in attendance, and Andre has often shown up 4 times a week to workout.   Both have competed successfully and Andre plans to compete in the US Judo Nationals this spring with Ryan and Travis.
• Player of the Month: January- Ken Nguyen.  Ken is an accomplished judoka, and is very dedicated to furthering himself, as well as others, in judo.  Ken is a great competitor and recently displayed his intense focus at the 2009 Dallas Invitational.  After losing the first round, any competitor knows the huge burden that is placed on you.  I talked with Ken after that first match, and knew pretty quick that he was ok.  His composure was good as we talked about that first match.  Ken continued on that day to win every match, including the opponent that beat him the first round, and secured a silver medal.  Ken is always the first to help around the dojo, or assist with helping others.  Ken’s family is also a huge help and the first to volunteer themselves if needed.
• Player of the Month: February- Patricia Salas.  Patricia possesses the same characteristics as those above: dedication, commitment, and intensity.  Patricia is attentive in class and not only improves herself, but those around her.  Patricia is a great competitor and recently won a gold medal in the 2010 Winter Sooner State Games.  Patricia, as well as all the above mentioned players truly comprehends what judo is, what it means, and how it can be useful in life.

Congratulations to all these players, and their outstanding efforts and I want to personally thank you for your valuable time!

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