About Us

Our club was founded in 1982  with the aim of promoting and teaching the martial art of Judo to individuals of all ages and skill levels. Our instructors are highly trained and experienced in Judo, and are dedicated to helping students achieve their goals and improve their physical and mental well-being.

We offer a range of classes, from beginner to advanced levels, as well as specialized classes for children, women, and seniors. Our training sessions focus on developing proper technique, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination, while also emphasizing the importance of discipline, respect, and sportsmanship.

Our club has a strong sense of community, and we strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all of our members. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a beginner just starting out, our club is the perfect place to learn, grow, and achieve your goals.

If you're interested in learning more about Judo and becoming a part of our club, we invite you to come visit us and see for yourself what we're all about. Our instructors are always happy to answer any questions you may have and help you get started on your Judo journey. We look forward to meeting you soon!

Hi, I'm Gary Sova. As the founder of Inner City Judo Club, I'm proud to have created a community of passionate Judo practitioners dedicated to excellence, sportsmanship, and respect. With a life dedicated to the art  of Judo, I've competed at high levels and honed my coaching skills to help students of all ages and abilities achieve their goals. At Inner City Judo, we foster a culture of growth, challenge, and support that empowers our members to reach their full potential both on and off the mat. I'm excited to welcome you to our club and help you discover the transformative power of Judo. 

Accolades Include:
 

•  Shichidan 7th degree black belt
• Former Assistant Provincial Coach for Judo Manitoba for 25 years
• Head Coach for Inner City Judo Club for 41 years, 
• Head Coach for the Legion Athletic Judo Camp for 30 years
• NCCP Level 3 Dojo Judo Coach. 
• National A judo referee. 
• Coached judo to Churchill High School as an after school program for at least 10 years. 
• NCCP facilitator for Dojo Instructor and Dojo Assistant courses. 
• Certified as National B Nagenokata Judge. 
• Coached Judo Manitoba team at the CWG in 1991, 1995, 1999, and 2003.
• Received the Diamond Jubilee award in 2012. 
• On February 4, 2017 I was inducted into Judo Manitoba's Hall of Fame as a Builder.
• Named coach of the month for June 2022 by Sport Manitoba.
• Head coach for the Legion Athletic Judo Camp for 30 years.
• Silver medalist in the 1975 Canada Winter Games
• Bronze medalist in 1982 Senior Nationals
• 1983 and 1987 Western Canada Games Gold medalist 
• Judo Manitoba Provincial champion for 14 years from 1973 to 1987.
• Was on the 1972 Canadian National Youth team that toured Germany for competitions.
  
   

Hi, I'm Jeff, a Judo coach focused on creating a dynamic and engaging training environment that helps students of all levels develop strong technical skills, mental toughness, resilience, and a sense of community.

Accolades Include:

• Yondan 4th degree black belt 
• NCCP Level 2 Dojo instructor 
• 34 years in Judo
• Coach of the month -January 2018
• Nominated Athlete of the year 1991
• Peace Garden Camp Coach
• 1990 Junior National Champion 
• 1991  Junior National Champion
• 1991 Canada Winter Games Champion 
• Flag bearer for Manitoba CWG 
• 1992 Junior National- bronze medalist 
• Provincial Champion many years 
• Medalist: Quebec Open, Ontario Open, Regina Open, Richmond Open, Calgary open

I'm Lloyd, a Judo coach with a deep passion for the art of Judo. I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment that helps students develop confidence, discipline, and a lifelong love for Judo.

Accolades Include: 

• Nidan 2nd degree black belt 
• 1979 Canada Games - Silver
• 1982 U21 Canadian Championships - Bronze
• Manitoba Provincial Champion - 16X 
• 1983 Canada Games Judo - Head Coach
• 1990-91 Judo Canada - Director of Sport 
• 1991 Canada Cup - Tournament Director