Trace Nishiyma
Head Coach
When his young son, Trent, began competing, Trace wanted to his son to have the same competitive, supportive environment he had growing up at Venice Dojo. So, he contacted his old friend, Tracy Kiyuhiro (son of the founder of Venice Dojo, Kenso Kiyuhiro) about starting the club up again. The rest, as they say, is history. Six years later, due to the inspiration Coach Nishiyama has fired up in our young people, we are the number one junior club in the U.S.A.

Tracy Kiyuhiro
Coach
If Trace is the fire, Tracy Kiyuhiro is the rock solid foundation of our club. He is always there for our young athletes, at every practice, at every tournament. Tracy started judo at Venice Dojo when he was a little boy and his father was Sensei Kiyuhiro. Now the new Sensei Kiyuhiro is bringing up a whole generation of girls and boys.

Bill Kelleghan
Coach
Yes, Bill Kelleghan IS as tall as he looks in this picture. He is the newest black belt member of our staff and the father of FOUR judo players!

Alden Numa
Coach
Alden Numa (not pictured) was a member of the original Venice Dojo and has been especially important in strengthening the mat techniqures of our teenage competitors. He is also a former college wrestler.

Kaz Uemura
Coach
Kaz Uemura, not only is an integral part of the coaching staff but is the father of THREE medalists in junior international competition!

Herb Webb
Assistant Coach
Herb Webb, a retired peace officer, handles refereeing, administrative and promotion responsibilities for the club, and is our representative to the Southern California Black Belt Association (Nanka).