Instructors
The dedicated senseis who carry on the tradition at Denver's oldest judo club.
Sensei Thom Sakata
Head Instructor
Sensei Thom Sakata is the head instructor at DBT Judo Dojo. He coordinates all club activities, communications, and training programs, continuing the tradition that has made DBT Judo Denver's longest-running judo club since 1953.
Under Sensei Sakata's leadership, the club has maintained its commitment to both competitive excellence and cultural preservation at the Denver Buddhist Temple. He has led the club's participation in community events including the Cherry Blossom Festival, the Dragon Boat Festival, and the Colfax Marathon relay team.
Sensei Sakata teaches the principles of Jita Kyoei (mutual benefit and welfare) — training hard but safely, building each other up through disciplined practice.
Notable Guest Instructors
DBT Judo regularly hosts clinics with accomplished judoka, providing our members with world-class instruction and training opportunities.
Travis Stevens
2x Olympian, 2016 Olympic Silver Medalist
Conducted an all-day clinic at DBTJ. Sponsored by the Colorado Judo League with coordination from Denver Judo.
Sensei Castillo
Bronze Medalist
DBT Judo club member who has achieved competitive success at the national level.
Teaching Philosophy
At DBT Judo, instruction is grounded in the core principles established by Jigoro Kano, the founder of judo:
- 1. Jita Kyoei — Mutual benefit and welfare. We train for the betterment of all, not just ourselves.
- 2. Seiryoku Zenyo — Maximum efficiency with minimum effort. Technique over brute force.
- 3. Safety First — Train hard but safely. Proper ukemi (breakfalling) is the foundation of all judo practice.
Interested in training with us?
Join DBTJReady to Step on the Mat?
Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced judoka, DBT Judo welcomes you. Join Denver's oldest judo club and become part of a tradition that spans over seven decades.