NAHA, OKINAWA, Japan -- For the first time on Okinawa, an American was recognized by the Okinawan Judo Association with an award for instructor of the year at the Okinawa Budokan in Naha April 7.
Paul E. Newman, the deputy camp commander on Camp Kinser, received the award for his more than 15 years of experience as a Judo instructor on Okinawa. Newman instructs four days-a-week at the Kadena Air Base Judo Club and co-instructs a Saturday and Sunday class at the Koza Athletic Park.
“Teaching Judo is all I have ever wanted to do,” said Newman. “It was something that I excelled at, and I developed a really strong passion to want to teach it.”
Judo, meaning “gentle way” in Japanese, is a modern martial art form most widely known for its competitive nature. The objective of Judo is to throw, take down or immobilize your opponent through grappling, holds and chokes.
Newman was the first American recognized with the award by the Okinawa Judo Association during an annual meeting in which the members discussed upcoming events and presented yearly awards.
“It is a real honor to be awarded this appreciation,” said Yakei Nakamatsu, the head instructor of the Okinawa City Judo Association. “It is rare for an American to receive this honor because of the time commitment it requires to be recognized.”
At the age of 27, Newman tried several different martial arts methods until he found Judo. After 24 years, the now 4th-degree black-belt instructor may not be as energetic as he once was but he can still compete with the best of them, according to Newman.
“I am very proud of my husband for what he gives back to the community while instructing,” said Saori H. Newman, a budget analyst for 18th Civil Engineering Group. “He truly is a great role model to his students, and has provided several opportunities for Americans and Japanese students to train together.”
Newman’s classes at the KAB Judo club are open to service members and their families and run Monday and Friday for participants 10 years or younger and Tuesday and Thursday for participants older than 10. His classes at the Koza Athletic Park are open to anyone ages three to adult from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturdays and 10 a.m. to noon Sundays.
For more information on attending classes, visit the Kadena Air Base Judo Club Facebook page at www.facebook.com/#!/groups/267015006688699.