About Aberdeen Judo Academy
Aberdeen Judo Academy was started in 1987 by Sensei John Huntley.
When Aberdeen Judo Academy was founded, Sensei Huntley brought the experience of his previous club in Prince George to the mat, providing an exceptional opportunity to learn Kodokan Judo right here in Kamloops for over thirty years.
Our Purpose
We strive to teach official Kodokan Judo as a lifetime activity that can be practiced by all ages and fitness levels.
Providing Exceptional Instruction
Senior class practice sessions at Aberdeen Judo are directed by Sensei Huntley, 7th degree black belt, who is committed to teaching the art of Kodokan Judo. Sensei Huntley has coached the sport for most of his life, producing numerous tournament-winning competitors.
Additionally, the club presently hosts ten active black belts, bringing an immense collection of knowledge to the mat, insuring you learn the most in every practice.
Commitment to Safety
Unlike many other styles of martial arts, Judo is built on a foundation of mutual welfare and benefit, putting the well being of everyone at the forefront of the sport.
Every class at Aberdeen Judo is taught with safety at the forefront of practice. Our instructors are proficient in First Aid and we do everything possible to ensure everybody's safety during practice.
Club Achievements
Aberdeen Judo Academy has produced 28 black belts, an achievement on its own, but more interesting is the fact that 9 of the 28 black belts produced are over 45 years of age.
Aberdeen Judo caters to the recreational as well as the competitive judo player. Mixed in with regular judo training are sessions on self defense and occasionally Arnis (Filipino stick fighting).
Judo practice cultivates a healthy lifestyle, and many of the older judo players initially started with the idea of just getting in good physical condition.
Judo offers fitness, confidence and self defense, and regular practice sessions include the cultural aspect of the art. For anyone looking for a fun, interesting way to get in shape, Aberdeen Judo is available to help individuals reach their goals.
Prospective members may join at any time, and spectators are welcome at all practice sessions.
Providing Exceptional Instruction
Senior class practice sessions at Aberdeen Judo are directed by Sensei Huntley, 7th degree black belt, who is committed to teaching the art of Kodokan Judo. Sensei Huntley has coached the sport for most of his life, producing numerous tournament-winning competitors.
Additionally, the club presently hosts ten active black belts, bringing an immense collection of knowledge to the mat, insuring you learn the most in every practice.
Commitment to Safety
Unlike many other styles of martial arts, Judo is built on a foundation of mutual welfare and benefit, putting the well being of everyone at the forefront of the sport.
Every class at Aberdeen Judo is taught with safety at the forefront of practice. Our instructors are proficient in First Aid and we do everything possible to ensure everybody's safety during practice.
Club Achievements
Aberdeen Judo Academy has produced 28 black belts, an achievement on its own, but more interesting is the fact that 9 of the 28 black belts produced are over 45 years of age.
Aberdeen Judo caters to the recreational as well as the competitive judo player. Mixed in with regular judo training are sessions on self defense and occasionally Arnis (Filipino stick fighting).
Judo practice cultivates a healthy lifestyle, and many of the older judo players initially started with the idea of just getting in good physical condition.
Judo offers fitness, confidence and self defense, and regular practice sessions include the cultural aspect of the art. For anyone looking for a fun, interesting way to get in shape, Aberdeen Judo is available to help individuals reach their goals.
Prospective members may join at any time, and spectators are welcome at all practice sessions.
Meet Our Instructors

Sensei John Huntley
Senior class practice sessions at Aberdeen Judo are under the direct supervision of Sensei John Huntley, 7th degree black belt, licensed by the Kodokan Judo Institute in Tokyo, Japan.
Sensei Huntley is an NCCP Level 3 certified coach, and is a Judo Canada NCCP Learning Facilitator for B.C.
An International Judo Federation licensed IJF 'B' tournament referee and international level competitor, Sensei Huntley still competes in the All Japan High Dan Tournament held yearly at the Kodokan in Tokyo.

Joe Marchand
Junior class practices are led by 3rd degree black belt, national and international competitor, and multi-medalist Joe Marchand.
Joe has been studying Judo for over 20 years. He has attended many clinics taught by acclaimed international instructors and has attained the standing of nationally certified judo instructor.
Other Members
At senior practices, other black-belt members of the club are NCCP certified instructors.
Aberdeen Judo is proud to call 10 black belts amongst the ranks. Whenever you come to practice, you can be sure to have the finest instruction in the art of Kodokan Judo.