Club History

Dr. Sachio Ashida at the Ann Arbor YMCA Dojo, 1969 (courtesy Fred Coury)

Club Beginnings

The Ann Arbor YMCA Judo Club was founded by Dr. Sachio Ashida Sensei in 1964. It was founded on the principles of learning and applying judo philosophies within the dojo and within oneself. We continue teaching the traditions he provided.

In late 2022, the Ann Arbor YMCA unilaterally decided to stop offering Judo. To continue the traditions and legacy of Judo in Ann Arbor started by Dr. Ashida, the club members have established the Karigane Judo Club.