Doryoku Judo Academy

🥋 Gauteng Kata Competition 2026 🥋

On 16 June, Gauteng proudly hosted its annual Kata Competition. Congratulations to all the judoka who participated and stepped onto the mat with focus, discipline, and commitment.

It is truly inspiring to see so many young judoka taking part in Kata, learning the deeper traditions of judo, and helping to keep this beautiful part of the sport alive.

A sincere thank you to all the judges, officials, coaches, volunteers, and supporters whose hard work and commitment made this event possible.

Well done to everyone involved. 👏🥋

Every dojo has a story, and Doryoku is one of hard work, dedication, and heart.

What many people see today as a beautiful, thriving dojo started as nothing more than an empty outside building. Brick by brick, year by year, it was transformed through countless hours of work, continuous upgrades, and the unwavering commitment of those who believed in a dream.

Through the love, support, and contributions of coaches, parents, friends, and judoka, the dojo has grown into the special place we proudly call home today.

We are incredibly grateful to Sensei Danie Bruwer for having the vision and courage to start Doryoku Judo Academy. Because of his passion and dedication, our children have the opportunity to be part of something truly meaningful — a sport that teaches discipline, respect, resilience, compassion, and character.

The dojo is more than just a building. It is a place where friendships are formed, confidence is built, lessons are learned, and futures are shaped.

Thank you, Sensei Danie, for creating a legacy that continues to inspire generations of judoka.

Doryoku means "effort" — and this dojo stands as proof of what can be achieved through it. 🥋❤️

🥋 DJA & KJK Randori Class 🥋

Today DJA and KJK came together for a great Randori class in preparation for the National Schools Championships and SA Championships.

Well done to all the judoka who worked hard, stayed focused, and gave their best on the mat. These extra training opportunities help build confidence, sharpen technique, and prepare our judoka for the challenges ahead.

Thank you to everyone who made the class possible and to all the judoka for their effort and commitment.

🥋 Excellence Through Effort

🥋 Thank You, Sensei Suandri! 🥋

The Doryoku family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Sensei Suandri for leading our Thursday senior classes over the past four weeks.

Her knowledge, experience, and expertise in competition preparation have added tremendous value to judoka both on and off the mat. Through her coaching, athletes have had the opportunity to learn differently, train differently, and continue growing through fresh insight and guidance.

We are incredibly grateful for the passion, energy, and support she has brought to every session. Thank you, Sensei Suandri, for investing your time into our and KJIK's judoka and helping them strive for excellence! 💙

🥋 Excellence Through Effort 🥋

🥋💐 Happy Mother’s Day to all our amazing Judo Moms!

Thank you for the love, support, and strength you give our judoka every day.

You are truly appreciated! 💙

Meet the Coach: Sensei Katja Bruwer

Sensei Katja Bruwer brings decades of experience to the mat as a 7th Dan, IJF Level 2 Coach, and qualified AJU & IJF Kata Judge.

Her judo journey includes multiple national titles and medals, international success as a competitor, and years of service as a national coach across Pre-Cadet, Cadet, Junior, Senior and Kata teams. She has also judged Kata at both African and World Championship level.

Beyond judo, Sensei Katja is also an accomplished runner and open-water swimmer, with Gauteng championship podium finishes, Central Gauteng Athletics representation, and numerous Midmar Miles completed.

With her depth of knowledge, calm authority and lifelong commitment to sport, Sensei Katja continues to play an important role in developing athletes and strengthening the judo community in South Africa.

What an amazing session! 🔥🥋

A big thank you to everyone who joined the Randori Session — the energy, effort, and fighting spirit on the mat were incredible.
Well done to all the Cadets, Juniors, and Seniors who came through to train, learn, and push each other. This is what judo is all about: growth, respect, and teamwork.

Thank you to Joburg Judo for the opportunity and to everyone who helped make the session a success.

Judo Greetings
Doryoku Judo Academy