Foreword

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Foreword:

The following is a statement on behalf of Mr. Fletcher Thornton, Director of Standards and Certification for USA Judo.

The National Junior Rank System now being presented, represents a major step forward for USA Judo as the National Governing Body. During its initial formation, USA Judo supported Group “B” initiatives for providing junior ranks. This program now identifies a true organizational standard that represents both the technical, and philosophical goals of the National Governing Body. As a result of these goals, we have developed a new USA Judo Junior Rank System for all our members and Coaches to follow. This development has truly been a team effort.

We view this USA Junior Rank System as a great unifying force for American Judo. It is truly a standard to which all young Judoka can rally, and use as a guide. At the same time, it provides guidance for the most important person in American Judo, the club Coach.

Experienced Coaches who have coached young Judo athletes for many years, know that the development of a decent citizen of good character is a more difficult task than making champions, as difficult as that may be. We wish to go beyond technical excellence to character education in every aspect of our Judo instruction, and have emphasized this goal throughout the new system.

We know that this new rank system will contribute to the betterment of society, by helping to produce fine American citizens, and dedicated athletes. We who have the honor of serving the governing body, dedicate ourselves to the growth, and development of American Judo, and ask that all officials, coaches and athletes, join with us in making this system a success.