It's hard to believe it's been over six months since we first walked into Pedro's Judo Center, but it has. Late in 2008, we went in search of an “outlet” for our son, Duncan, who was in kindergarten. He had begun to experience challenges fairly typical for students his age, and we wanted to be proactive in helping and equipping him to work through them. PJC surpassed even our most optimistic expectations, and has since completely blown us away with the effect it has had on him. For that reason, we can honestly tell you that PJC has been elevated to “no-brainer” status for us, when we are speaking with parents who are on a similar mission for their children. The skills, lessons, and mindset Duncan has learned at the dojo have permeated all areas of his development. Even more than this, we were stunned at the rapidity with which these effects became apparent.
One afternoon on vacation, Duncan was floating in a pool. Up until then, he had always been a little “twitchy” around water. Therefore, it came as no surprise that he became nervous when he realized, at one point, that he was drifting towards the deep end. Spontaneously, he began to recite his “Lil Dragons” creed out loud, with no prompting whatsoever from either of us, in an attempt to calm himself. He “kept it together”, and made it all the way across the pool. He is now comfortable enough that he has asked us to sign him up for swim lessons.
On another occasion, Duncan balked at the idea of going on a full-sized Ferris wheel. Heights were also another challenge for him, so this also wasn't any big shock to us. We talked to him about it, and he opted to pass on the ride. His sister and father had made it about halfway through the line when Duncan came running up, saying he'd been thinking about it, and had changed his mind. He was nervous, but wanted to give it a try. He went on the ride, had a blast, and immediately asked to go on again.
These may seem like minor “victories” to some. We can, however, assure you that this new attitude of taking a challenge head-on, and overcoming it, was a big step for our son, and a step for which PJC gets much of the credit. The phrase “I can't do it” has virtually disappeared.
Duncan is now a member of PJC's Leadership Team, and your school continues to impress us more and more through this program. The emphasis that your instructors place on success outside of the dojo, especially where schoolwork is concerned, came as a refreshing surprise. After classes on topics such as teamwork, confidence, and positive influences, not only can we see the difference in him, but even he sees it in himself. He will often point out an instance to us when he has had to call upon extra confidence, such as going to first grade his first few days. When he steps “out of line”, and needs to be gently corrected, pointing out to him that “a leader probably wouldn't do something like that”, or “that didn't seem like a very positive influence” make for handy, and effective, reminders. Surprisingly for a six-year-old, he takes these skills as a point of pride, and it's remarkable how quickly he will modify his behavior.
Amazingly, none of this has even included any mention of, of all things, the judo Duncan has learned. PJC's judo “pedigree” speaks for itself, to anyone who makes even the most casual of inquiries. I need not belabor that point here. As for our own judoka, Duncan, he is noticeably stronger, and has vastly improved gross motor skills and balance, all since he joined PJC. We often catch ourselves sitting wide-eyed and slack-jawed when we witness him executing some of the “moves” he's learned to perform, not only effectively, but safely.
I apologize if this has run longer than necessary, but please know I could have easily continued for several more pages. Any favorable commentary about PJC practically writes itself. We have recommended your school to many people, and still do, quite often. It is, as we said, a “no-brainer”. As such, we can only offer our most sincere thanks for all that you have done for Duncan in such a short time, and what you will no doubt continue to do, in the years to come. We aren't going anywhere.
Mr. And Mrs. Guy Monaco
"Dear Jimmy,
To date, all four members of our family have had great experiences taking classes at Pedro's Judo Center, however, I wanted to write specifically about the fantastic success we've seen for our boys.
Alejandro started when he was 5 years old with Lyn Lewis and Alex Ottiano and has been going for the last 4 years. From the beginning we've had three rules for Judo (and really all extra-curricular programs) we require him to adhere to: Pay attention at all times, try your hardest at all times, and have fun.
Your programs have allowed him the flexibility to move at his own pace and while he's not exactly tearing up the tournament circuit, we're proud of his progress and his willingness to recently start training with the competition team. His personal growth has been tremendous and he's very proud of his membership in STORM Team.
Diego, having grown up at the dojo watching his big brother, couldn't wait to start and is having a ball with Lil' Dragons. This program has been a fantastic boost to his physical development as well as his confidence. He loves his time spent with the Team FORCE members as well as the adult Senseis. Its been great watching our kids grow along with the dojo and its programs and we're thankful to have been along for the ride."
Cristina Klavins-Winsor
Dear Jimmy,
I've written this recommendation of your work to share with other LinkedIn users.
Details of the Recommendation:
"In 2002, Jimmy was the first educator ever, with whom my family dealt, who did not focus on my son's physical challenges. Jimmy did not place limits on him, and thus, my son did not place limits on himself.
Jimmy's leadership, strength, and experience were big enough to match my son's heart. As a result, he wss able inspire and give my son the tools to become a junior national champion.
The lessons Chris has learned at Pedro's Martial Arts about resiliance, team work, and work ethic will follow him throughout his life, into his career, and perhaps someday in leading his own family.
My husband and I can not recommend Jimmy and his team high enough."
Kim Round, mother of Team FORCE athlete Chris Round
Service Category: Judo Coach
Year first hired: 2002 (hired more than once)
Top Qualities: Great Results, Personable, Expert
"Hi Mike,
We were just talking about you and what a great job you guys did on Saturday. The kids absolutely loved it and the picture of me in mid air is priceless!! We would love for you to return and possibly do an assembly with our students. You can email my principal at jrodriguez@lawrence.k12.ma.us. By the way, I was so happy that you brought your female athletes, I think it was great for our girls to see how amazing female athletes can be!! Thanks again, it was a blast and hopefully we will see you again soon."
Jaina Shea
"O’Sensei Pedro,
I wanted to let you know how impactful your presentation last Monday on respect was. As a parent, I am constantly looking for validation regarding my wife and I’s approach to raising our children, and I regularly find it at this dojo. Respect, leadership, discipline & confidence are values we hold sacred in our home. Hearing it from you and seeing it in your staff helps us stay consistent even on those days when we lack the energy. We recognize the time and effort you put into this center.
I have enclosed Ryan and Sarah’s report cards. We are blessed with bright children. Please read Ryan’s review; his teachers’ comments should let you know that your teachings transcend this building. Please continue what you do. Our children benefit greatly, and Roberta and I learn and incorporate what we see and hear.
Sincerely,"
Bob Fitzpatrick, Father of Ryan and Sarah Fitzpatrick
"Dear Jim,
Just wanted to take a minute to write and tell you how happy my wife and I are with the experience at Pedro’s Judo. I have spent my whole life working with athletes and never thought I would find such a positive experience for my daughter Michaela. I have always feared venturing into the world of youth sports. As you know, the horror stories are endless.
Pedro’s Judo is everything you could want a young boy or girls first athletic experience to be. For my seven year old daughter to be in a world-class environment, surrounded by world-class competitors is truly a once in a lifetime experience. For her to realize that these world-athletes are also world-class people is as the Mastercard people say, priceless.
We truly could not ask for more. When you enter you become part of the Pedro’s family, both literally and figuratively. Jim Pedro is not a name on the door, he is the man teaching leadership class to my seven year old, delivering lessons on honesty and goal setting.
I hope you will place this on your website so that other parents can be convinced to visit Pedro’s Judo and experience the special feeling my daughter gets every time she comes. Michaela would be at Pedro’s every night if we would let her and, I believe that speaks for itself.
Sincerely,"
Michael and Cindy Boyle, Parents of Michaela Boyle
"Sensei Jimmy,
It has been two years since I met you I thought I should give you an update on my current situation.
I came to you after having 5 heart surgeries, two pacemakers (make that three now) and having been clinically dead 3 times. I came to you looking to get in shape, and nothing more. I remember the first time I went to the dojo I thought how much of a pain in the ass it was going to be to have to climb the stairs to get to the mats each time I went to Judo. Just climbing those stairs was making me breathe heavy for a few minutes. At the two year mark today I went to the gym to try to climb stairs to see numerically how far I progressed. I hopped on and just kept climbing. After 60 minutes, the machine shut off by itself and told me among other things that I just climbed 224 floors. I could have kept going.
I have succeeded in what I wanted to accomplish. I have decided to give away my US companies and move to the Republic of Korea. I have accepted a University teaching position, and I will be leaving as soon as I get my visa stamped, hopefully before thanksgiving. I will continue to participate in Judo as I know it can and will change one's life. I hope I will be welcome back after I accomplish what I want to accomplish overseas.
I would like to say thank you, and leave it at that because there is no way for me to repay what your school has given to me. Just know that your school and Judo can and will change lives, and to please never stop teaching."
Stephen Lauria, Nov 1, 2005
"We are so happy at your school, it has brought the family together as no other sport has."
Denise Vinciarelli (mother of Dante and Antonia)
"Judo has provided my child with a disciplined, structured athletic arena that has carried over in all areas of his life."
Graciella Trilla, Parent (child age 7)/Principal
"Training at Pedro's Judo has instilled in me, the discipline and confidence to be successful on the mat as well as in my career."
George Pissimissis (age 32) Estimator/Project Manager SLT Construction
"I want to thank you for all that you have done with Tom over the last 3 years. He has developed more confidence, flexbility, and balance as a direct result of judo and it is showing up on the ice. The good news is that he is getting a lot of interest from the scouts, and recently got drafted by the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. The Quebec League is a professional league and he has decided to maintain his amateur status in the hopes of getting some offers from D-1 colleges. You and your team should feel proud of his progress. Tom has greatly benefited from Perdo's Judo and I happily recommend you to anyone who might have an interest."
Joann Michalik (mother of Tom)
“I write to express our delight in Michael’s membership to your club. Your insight and approach to the “whole” person, not simply their athleticism is remarkable. I always anticipate attending your confidence booster sessions because every adult in the room benefits as well. Additionally, with the development of the STORM team, you are a mentor and role model in raising all of our children. I awlays recite a favorite quotation of mine to my sons and this definitely applies to you:
“I always waited for someone to make a difference, and then I realized I was someone.” These boys and girls will never forget the influence you had on their lives.
Last week as Micheal left his class, he commented that he loves the feeling he has when he’s in the Dojo. “It’s like one big family“, he said. Jimmy, you have surrounded yourself with terrific people who always take the time to teach, understand compliment, and build confidence in the students.”
Susan Russo, Mother of Michael Russo (STORM Team member)
“I would just like to tell you what a great experience I have had at your Wakefield studio. I recently enrolled my son Matthew in your little dragons program and he loves it. Butch McIlwain is great. He gave my son and I a tour, explained the program, and answered all our questions. Butch is very friendly and professional he made it very easy for my son to walk into a strange place and feel comfortable. Tanya Falco who instructs the little dragons has also been wonderful. She is great with the kids. Tanya does a great job making class instructional and fun for the kids. I am not sure of your receptionists name I think she might be Tanya to. I don't want to leave her out she is also very friendly and helpful. I just wanted to let you know how happy my wife and I are that we signed Matt up at your studio. Matt is very happy to he loves Judo.”
Ronald J. Rocha, Father of Matt Rocha (Lil' Dragons Team member)
“I would like to express my most sincere thanks to all of you at the Pedro's dojo for allowing my daughter Gabrielle Proksa, attend and participate in a very productive and fun 2006 Pre-Nationals Judo Camp.
Gabrielle and I have been very satisfied and impressed with the professionalism, knowledge, experience, skill and ethical approach to children of all ages. We will definitely look into another judo camp at your facility.
Yours in judo.”
Robert Proksa, checkmate self defense, Father of Gabrielle Proksa
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