Club History

A short history of judo, and the story of Flinders University Judo Club.

Judo in brief

Judo was founded in 1882 by Jigoro Kano in Japan. Kano’s goal was to preserve the most effective principles of jujutsu while creating a modern, educational system built on safety, respect, and personal development.

Two ideas sit at the heart of judo:

  • Seiryoku Zenyo — maximum efficient use of energy
  • Jita Kyoei — mutual welfare and benefit

Today, judo is practiced worldwide as both a martial art and an Olympic sport — but it’s also a community built on learning, discipline, and helping your training partners improve.

Flinders University Judo Club

Flinders University Judo Club exists to make judo accessible to students, staff, alumni, and the wider community — whether you’re here for fitness, friends, self‑confidence, or competition.

Help us build this page

If you’ve got photos, dates, stories, or past results from FUJC over the years, we’d love to include them. Send anything you have through the website contact form or email the club.

Timeline

This is a starting timeline. As we collect more information, we’ll expand it with names, milestones, and photos.

1882

Judo is founded

Jigoro Kano establishes judo at the Kodokan in Tokyo.

1964

Olympic debut

Judo appears at the Tokyo Olympic Games (and becomes a permanent Olympic sport from 1972).

Today

FUJC community

Beginner-friendly training, women’s pathway, and opportunities to compete, coach, referee, and volunteer.

Where to next