THE ACADEMY
1. Beyond technique—our training builds strength, mental discipline, and spiritual balance for complete growth. Boost fitness, resilience, and stability.
2. Guided by Shintaro Nakano from Japan, our expert team offers personalized training to help you reach your full potential, whether for competition or personal growth.
3. Join a family. Our inclusive environment fosters respect, camaraderie, and lasting friendships as you progress in judo.
4. Nakano Judo Academy leads in both training and judo research, sharing expert insights on YouTube. Respected nationally and globally, we’re one of America’s top judo schools.
HEAD INSTRUCTOR:
SHINTARO NAKANO
KODOKAN/USJF 5TH DAN BLACK BELT
Shintaro Nakano is a KODOKAN 5th Dan Black Belt who was born in Miyazaki, Japan. He began his Judo training at the young age of five and learned the traditional beliefs and values of Judo from the beginning. He graduated from Chuo University in Tokyo, Japan, and was an 8-time Japan National Team member before coming to the United States. During his time on the team, he competed and trained with some of the best in the world.
Nakano has served as a Judo Coach at San Jose State University, which is the premier North American college for Judo. He has supported the team in winning back-to-back National Collegiate Judo Championships from 2012-2016. Additionally, he coached Marti Malloy, supporting her in winning a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics and a silver medal at the 2013 World Judo Championships.
Nakano's passion for coaching stems from his desire to impart his knowledge and experiences to the next generation.
COMPETING ACHIEVEMENT:
Member of the Japanese National team from 1998 to 2008
2007: 5th All Japan Kodokan Cup 66 kg
2007: 3rd All Japan Industrial Championships 66 kg
2006: 5th All Japan Kodokan Cup 66 kg
2006: 2nd All Japan Industrial Championships 66 kg
2004: 1st All Japan Industrial Championships 60 kg
2004: 1st U.S Open 60 kg
2003: 2nd All Japan Industrial Championships 60kg
2002: 3rd Japan College National Championships 60 kg
2002: 2nd Tokyo Collegiate Tournament 60 kg
2001: 3rd All Japan Kodokan Cup 60 kg
2000: 3rd Japan College National Championships 60kg
2000: 2nd Tokyo Collegiate Tournament 60 kg
1999: 1st Japan Junior National Championships 60kg
1999: 5th Russia International Tournament 60 kg
1998: 1st Kyushu Championships 60kg
1997: 1st Kyushu Championships 60kg
1994: 1st Italy Junior International Tournament 60 kg
Over the course of his career, he has conducted more than 50 seminars and clinics in cities such as San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Portland, Seattle, Boise, Chicago, Detroit, Denver, Honolulu, Hilo, Montreal, and Quebec.
Santa Clara Judokas Shine at Junior Olympics
Santa Clara, CA — July 31, 2024
The dedication and hard work of the young athletes at Nakano Judo Academy have paid off in a big way! Four of our talented judokas proudly represented Nakano Judo Academy at this year's Junior Olympics, bringing home not just medals, but also honor and recognition for their incredible achievements.
Led by Sensei Shintaro Nakano, our team trained relentlessly for months to prepare for this prestigious event. Their performance on the national stage showcased not only their technical skill and athleticism but also the values of discipline, respect, and perseverance that are core to judo.