About Us

About Cranford Judo Karate Center

Judo, the Yonezuka Way. 柔道

A welcome from Sensei Nicolas Yonezuka, a 1980 U.S. Olympian.

I know that choosing a martial arts school can feel overwhelming. Whether you are looking for a positive activity for your child, an alternative to the gym, practical self-defense, or the challenge of Olympic-style judo, I want you to know that judo is a sport for everyone.

I was born into the art of judo. My father, Yoshisada Yonezuka, came to the United States from Japan to help grow the sport and founded Cranford JKC in 1962. Long before I stepped onto the competition mat, I was learning the values he believed mattered most: discipline, respect, perseverance, humility, and character.

For my entire life, I have practiced, competed in, and taught judo. Today, it is my privilege to continue my father’s work by sharing those same values with every student who walks through our doors.

At Cranford JKC, martial arts are about much more than learning techniques. Whether you are five years old or an adult stepping onto the mat for the first time, our programs are designed to help you build confidence, discipline, resilience, and lifelong friendships while working toward your individual goals.

For children, these lessons help develop values and character that carry into school, friendships, and everyday life. Our youth programs provide a meaningful way to support each child’s physical, social, and personal growth.

For adults, training offers an engaging alternative to a traditional gym routine. Students improve their strength, fitness, coordination, and mental focus while learning practical self-defense in a supportive and challenging environment.

Today, I am proud to teach alongside my sons, Olympian Jack Yonezuka and national champion Nicolas Yonezuka Jr., who represent the next generation of our family’s commitment to excellence. Together with our dedicated instructors, we continue to uphold the values that have guided Cranford JKC for more than six decades.

Students at Cranford JKC learn throws, groundwork, movement, self-defense, and competitive skills. Just as importantly, they learn how to work hard, overcome challenges, respect others, and continue improving.

Every Student Begins Somewhere

Every black belt was once a beginner. Every champion once struggled with the basics.

You will make mistakes. You will have successful days and difficult ones. That is part of judo.

Your first victory may be learning to fall without fear, completing a challenging practice, or performing your first clean throw. These moments matter because each one represents progress.

Our responsibility as instructors is to provide a safe and supportive environment where every student can grow with confidence. Your responsibility is simple: come ready to learn, work hard, respect your instructors and training partners, and never stop improving.

For more than 60 years, Cranford JKC has helped students become stronger, not only as martial artists but also as people. Whether your goal is recreation, competition, self-defense, fitness, or personal growth, we are committed to helping you become the best version of yourself.

When choosing where to train, experience, tradition, and quality matter. Whether you are taking your first class or pursuing your highest competitive goals, Cranford JKC welcomes you to become part of a community built on excellence, character, and tradition.

Step onto the mat. Bow. Begin.

Welcome to Cranford Judo Karate Center.

Be part of the Judo Way of Life.
Judo, the Yonezuka Way. 柔道