Get to know your dojo

About Tolide Judo Kwai

Welcome to Tolide Judo Kwai, a cornerstone of the Ft. Saskatchewan community since the fall of 1970. Founded by Mr. Robert Grunewald and Mr. John Van Doorn, our dojo has been a beacon of judo instruction, embodying the principles of fitness, confidence, mutual respect, self-discipline, and self-defense. Our name, translating from Japanese to “Fort Judo Club,” reflects our deep roots and commitment to the martial art of Judo.

Get to know your dojo

About Tolide Judo Kwai

Welcome to Tolide Judo Kwai, a cornerstone of the Ft. Saskatchewan community since the fall of 1970. Founded by Mr. Robert Grunewald and Mr. John Van Doorn, our dojo has been a beacon of judo instruction, embodying the principles of fitness, confidence, mutual respect, self-discipline, and self-defense. Our name, translating from Japanese to “Fort Judo Club,” reflects our deep roots and commitment to the martial art of Judo.

How We Got Here

From our humble beginnings in the gymnasium of the Ft. Saskatchewan Elementary School, Tolide Judo Kwai has navigated through various homes with resilience and support from the City of Ft. Saskatchewan. Our journey saw us moving from school gymnasiums to the basement of the Library, then to the old Home Hardware building, and later to the refurbished gymnasium on the “Old Jail” site. In 2004, our dedication and community spirit led us to our current home in the state-of-the-art Dow Centennial Centre, where we had the honor of hosting the highly successful 2005 Junior National Judo Championships.

Strong Judo Community

Our dojo’s strength and success are a testament to our tremendous volunteer spirit. We extend our deepest gratitude to the coaches, parents, and members who dedicate their time to teaching, refereeing, organizing, and supporting our club in countless ways. Your commitment is the backbone of our thriving judo community.

For over 50 years, Tolide Judo Kwai has been more than just a judo club; it’s a family dedicated to perfecting ourselves and contributing positively to society. Our dojo boasts an excellent facility equipped with high-quality tatami mats and a spring floor for increased safety and low impact, ensuring an optimal training environment for all ages.

Our goal is to encourage others to try judo and make it a lifelong interest. We invite you to join us at Tolide Judo Kwai, where you can embark on a transformative journey, mastering the art of judo while becoming part of a community that values courage, respect, and perseverance.

Teaching Judo for over 50 years

Our Expertise

As a well-established club with a history of producing highly skilled students, coaches, and referees, we pride ourselves on our experienced, caring instructors and our focus on community. Our volunteer-based approach allows us to offer family-friendly fees, making judo accessible to everyone.

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Years of combined Sensei wisdom

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Black belt promotions

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Tournaments hosted

Meet the sensei

Keith Bibbey

Head Sensei - 5th Dan Black Belt

51 Years in Judo

Wesley Enns

4th Dan Black Belt

28 Years in Judo

Maija Merivirta

1st Dan Black Belt

29 Years in Judo

Holly Lessard

1st Dan Black Belt

34 Years in Judo

Michiko Maruyama-Fillion

1st Dan Black Belt

33 Years in Judo

Blake Fillion

Brown Belt

13 Years in Judo

curious if judo is right for you?

Try Judo For Free

On the last Thursday of every month, we open our doors for a free class to anyone interested in experiencing judo. It’s a great opportunity to meet our instructors, engage with our community, and see if judo is the right fit for you or your family. Download the waiver and either email it or bring it with you to class.

curious if judo is right for you?

Try Judo For Free

On the last Thursday of every month, we open our doors for a free class to anyone interested in experiencing judo. It’s a great opportunity to meet our instructors, engage with our community, and see if judo is the right fit for you or your family. Download the waiver and either email it or bring it with you to class.

FAQs

Some of our most frequently asked questions. If you don't see an answer to your question here, don't hesitate to reach out.

Can adults with no martial arts background start Judo?

Absolutely! Our adult programs are designed for participants of all levels, including complete beginners. Judo is a rewarding journey at any age or skill level.

What are the benefits of Judo compared to other martial arts?

Judo emphasizes physical fitness, mental discipline, and self-defense with a unique focus on throws and grappling, making it a comprehensive martial art and sport.

Are there competitive opportunities for those interested in tournaments?

Yes, we offer training and preparation for those interested in competing. Our dojo has a history of participating in and hosting successful tournaments.

How often do classes meet, and what is the commitment like?

Classes for both youth and adults run from September to June, with options for attending twice a week and an optional Sunday session for focused practice.

What is the progression system in Judo, and how are belts awarded?

Progression in Judo is marked by belt ranks, reflecting skill and knowledge levels. Belts are awarded through assessments of technique, practice, and understanding of Judo principles.

Can adults with no martial arts background start Judo?

Absolutely! Our adult programs are designed for participants of all levels, including complete beginners. Judo is a rewarding journey at any age or skill level.

What are the benefits of Judo compared to other martial arts?

Judo emphasizes physical fitness, mental discipline, and self-defense with a unique focus on throws and grappling, making it a comprehensive martial art and sport.

Are there competitive opportunities for those interested in tournaments?

Yes, we offer training and preparation for those interested in competing. Our dojo has a history of participating in and hosting successful tournaments.

How often do classes meet, and what is the commitment like?

Classes for both youth and adults run from September to June, with options for attending twice a week and an optional Sunday session for focused practice.

What is the progression system in Judo, and how are belts awarded?

Progression in Judo is marked by belt ranks, reflecting skill and knowledge levels. Belts are awarded through assessments of technique, practice, and understanding of Judo principles.

Can adults with no martial arts background start Judo?

Absolutely! Our adult programs are designed for participants of all levels, including complete beginners. Judo is a rewarding journey at any age or skill level.

What are the benefits of Judo compared to other martial arts?

Judo emphasizes physical fitness, mental discipline, and self-defense with a unique focus on throws and grappling, making it a comprehensive martial art and sport.

Are there competitive opportunities for those interested in tournaments?

Yes, we offer training and preparation for those interested in competing. Our dojo has a history of participating in and hosting successful tournaments.

How often do classes meet, and what is the commitment like?

Classes for both youth and adults run from September to June, with options for attending twice a week and an optional Sunday session for focused practice.

What is the progression system in Judo, and how are belts awarded?

Progression in Judo is marked by belt ranks, reflecting skill and knowledge levels. Belts are awarded through assessments of technique, practice, and understanding of Judo principles.

Providing martial arts instruction for all ages and fitness levels for Fort Saskatchewan, Sherwood Park, Edmonton, Gibbons, Bruderheim and Ardrossan.

Tolide Judo Kwai

© 2025 Tolide Judo Kwai. All rights reserved.

Providing martial arts instruction for all ages and fitness levels for Fort Saskatchewan, Sherwood Park, Edmonton, Gibbons, Bruderheim and Ardrossan.

Tolide Judo Kwai

© 2025 Tolide Judo Kwai. All rights reserved.

Providing martial arts instruction for all ages and fitness levels for Fort Saskatchewan, Sherwood Park, Edmonton, Gibbons, Bruderheim and Ardrossan.

Tolide Judo Kwai

© 2025 Tolide Judo Kwai. All rights reserved.