USA Judo

The 2018 honorees are:

Barbara Houston-Shimizu

Recognized or her commitment and excellence in Kata Management, Refereeing, and Local Event Assistance. Barbara Houston-Shimizu has been a fixture in the judo world for many years. She contributes a lot of time and resources to not only refereeing, but to the kata program. As Chair of Kata, she has brought the program to new heights working tirelessly not only for the national program but also assisting in the PJC.

Bernardo (Bernie) Montero

Recognized for this Commitment and Excellence in launching USA Judo’s “Judo in School” Program. Bernardo Montero is the President/Principal of Somerset Academy Charter Schools which includes 62 schools and more than 17,500 students across Florida, Nevada, Texas, and Washington DC. A lifelong judoka and educator focused on holistic youth development, Bernie has started to make his dream of “Judo in Schools” a reality by implementing the Program in 11 schools located in Central and South Florida resulting in 450 youth trying judo after school.

Manmohan Chima

Recognized for his commitment and excellence in Refereeing and Local Event Assistance. Manmohan Chima is always available when you need him. Whether it’s on the mat as a referee, handling weigh-in’s at a National event or providing volunteers as technical officials. He continues giving his time to the judo community now as President of Texas Judo.