USJA Committee
Supporting traditional technique, practical self-defense, and disciplined practice.
Traditional practice
The USJA Jujitsu Committee supports structured study, technical development, and promotion standards for practitioners across the association. Training emphasizes efficient movement, sound mechanics, practical application, and responsibility for one another.
The USJA system
USJA senior jujitsu leaders established a separate Jujitsu Division so the art’s requirements, processes, and technical development could receive focused oversight. The division is led by a chair, vice chairs, and members at large and reports to the USJA Board of Directors.
USJA Jujitsu was developed from the knowledge of many experienced practitioners rather than as one person’s system. Its philosophy, techniques, and training methods reflect a broad body of practical and technical experience.
The system continues to be reviewed and refined so its techniques and rank requirements remain useful for present-day training and needs.
Committee focus
Complete practice connects movement, balance, control, and appropriate response. Each area is developed progressively so technique remains effective without sacrificing safety.
Use tai sabaki, positioning, and kuzushi to create opportunity through efficient body movement.
Develop joint controls, pins, transitions, and measured pressure with clear responsibility for your partner.
Practice releases, escapes, distance, and appropriate responses through realistic but controlled study.
A complete practice
Training develops confidence through cooperative practice, progressive resistance, and careful attention to safe execution.
Division organization
Distinct groups within the division manage the policies, standards, and processes that support practitioners and instructors.
Reviews promotion and recognition requests and makes final determinations on rank awards.
Conduct practical examinations and provide qualified recommendations based on demonstrated skill.
Supports the continued review and development of techniques, requirements, and training guidance.
Standards and recognition
The Jujitsu Division coordinates technical development, promotion review, and Certified Rank Examiner guidance. Current forms and requirements support both normal promotion and rank-validation pathways.
Rank pathways
Each pathway combines documented experience with qualified technical review. Current forms in the Forms tab provide the complete requirements.
A member with a recognized rank may request a corresponding USJA certificate by submitting the required promotion form and existing rank documentation. A Certified Rank Examiner evaluates the candidate before the Promotion Board reviews the request.
Experienced practitioners who do not have a valid rank certificate may pursue rank validation. A Certified Rank Examiner determines an appropriate recommendation through practical examination and supporting documentation.
The system establishes the number and types of techniques expected at each level without requiring everyone to learn them in one fixed order. This gives instructors and students flexibility while keeping the focus on technical achievement.
Senior ranks recognize technical expertise, leadership, service, and contribution. Candidates should normally test before a Certified Rank Examiner; when authorized, additional history, documentation, and a teaching demonstration may support the Board’s review.
Training resources
Use the official USJA portals below to access anti-abuse education, concussion training, and background screening.
| Name | Rank | Location | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barry S. Stebbins | Shichidan | colbarry@aol.com | Powell OH | Chairman |
| Ed Thibedeau | Rokudan | jujitsu1950@gmail.com | Little Rock AR | Secretary |
| Dr. Ronald Allan Charles | Shichidan | ronaldallancharles@comcast.net | Goose Creek SC | Member |
| John J. Miller | Rokudan | fnetequalsma@gmail.com | Glen Burnie MD Maryland | Member |
| Gary L. Monto | Kudan | GaryMonto1947@gmail.com | Oregon OH | Member |
| John Newton | Hachidan | john@newtonland.com | Indialantic FL | Member |
| Harold G. Robinson | Kudan | robin0305@aol.com | Pensacola FL | Emeritus Member |
| Category | Form | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Jujitsu | Jujitsu Rank Validation Form | View Download |
| Jujitsu | Promotion - Jujitsu | View Download |
| Jujitsu | Jujitsu Test (Promos & Validations) | View Download |
| Jujitsu | Jujitsu Rank Examiner Certification Program | View Download |
| Jujitsu | Jujitsu Rank Examiner Certification Request | View Download |
| Jujitsu | Jujitsu Rank Recognition | View Download |
