A Very Brief History of Toshi Dojo

Toshi Dojo has been in continuous operation in Louisville, KY for more than 20 years. Originally founded by Sensei Mike Royce in 1974, Toshi Dojo has developed into one of the premier grappling schools in Kentucky. 

In its history, Toshi has made its home in many locations - Bardstown Road, Downtown Athletic Club, various gymnastic clubs, to name a few.  For the past 6 years, Toshi Dojo has been located at its present location - 10306 Taylorsville Road in Jeffersontown. 

In 1995, Sensei Mike Royce retired and moved to the Miami, Florida area.  Since that time, Sensei John Wortley has been head coach at Toshi.  Visit our Yudansha page for a complete list of the Judo black belt members at Toshi Dojo.

Toshi Dojo Rules and Regulations

Signed waiver is required of all participants.  Signature of parent or legal guardian is required for all minor participants under 18 years of age.

The personal hygiene standard of all participants shall be of a reasonable standard.  Participants shall keep all finger and toe nails trimmed short.

Long hair should be tied so that it does not interfere with judo training.

The judo uniform should fit properly, be in good condition (free of tears etc.), be generally clean and dry and without unpleasant odor.

Participants are to take into consideration their age, physical condition, medical problems/injuries and experience level and exercise due caution for their own safety and the safety of other participants.

Prior to participating, participants are responsible for inspecting the mats, equipment and facilities, and if they feel anything is unsafe, they are to bring it to the attention of the person in charge.  They should refuse to participate unless the unsafe condition is corrected.

The wearing of jewelry or any hard metallic object is prohibited.

Courtesy, good manners and good sportsmanship is required.

The instructions of the coach or teacher are to be followed by all participants.

Dojo fee must be paid when due in order to keep membership current and retain dojo training privileges.

National organization (USJA) membership is required for all promotions.

Individuals who are under, or appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be allowed to participate in training.

Individuals who are infected with a highly contagious disease which could pose a serious health threat to other participants may be prohibited, or at least restricted as to their involvement in judo training.  Individuals who fit into this category have the responsibility to inform the instructor.

Participants should be on time for the start of class.  Participants who need to leave before the end of class should inform the instructor.

Some type of footwear should be worn when off of the mat.  When a participant leaves the mat to use the restroom, footwear must be worn.

Individuals who engage in conduct which reflects adversely on the reputation of Toshi Dojo and the moral ethics of Kodokan Judo may be refused membership or have their membership privileges suspended or revoked.

Participants (members and non-members) who violate dojo rules, depending on the frequency and severity, are subject to suspension or dismissal from the dojo.