“At Suzuran, we have been fortunate to have a long history in the Woodland Park / Teller County area.  Here are a few of the Suzuran Judo/Jujitsu was quite the experience for me and my two girls.  My girls began taking Judo at ages 7 and 9.  They took Judo for about 3 years.  After just 6 months of them being in Judo, I noticed a sharp increase in their grades, social skills, and overall confidence.  I was intrigued and decided to try it out for myself.   

As a SWAT Paramedic, I quickly found the knowledge and experience in practice to be invaluable in my job. I have used Judo and Jujitsu countless times on the job and kept potentially out-of-control situations in check.

Words can’t express my gratitude for the impact Jeff, Amy, Herb, and everyone at Suzuran have had on my entire family.  It was an experience we will carry with us forever.

Thanks!!!!” 

Brent Newton

Woodland Park, CO

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“Our 6-year-old son was looking for another challenge after wrestling season and Suzuran’s competitive judo program was an ideal fit.  He was encouraged to incorporate his wrestling skills with judo.  This combination resulted in strong showings in both judo and wrestling competitions.  Our 10-year-old daughter saw how much fun our son was having, so she joined with the idea of just practicing and not competing…before you know it, she is throwing people right and left and doing it in competition against girls of similar age and size. 

The skills learned at Suzuran have definitely improved our kids’ self confidence and ability to focus on long-term goals, as well as developing in them an appreciation for respect and honor.  By far the greatest value our family has received from participating at the Suzuran Dojo is the genuine friendships that will last for years to come.

Without any reservations, I recommend Suzuran Dojo to anyone looking for the many benefits a martial arts program can provide.  There is no better youth sports program in the Teller County area.”

Kevin & Stacie Kearns

Woodland Park, CO

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“I am a single Mom of 3 teenage boys.  After a difficult divorce, my boys were dealing with many emotions and I was looking for something to help strengthen them emotionally and keep them focused on positive goals.  We found that and more at Suzuran Dojo.     

After only a few weeks of practice, I began to notice a change for the better.  They were not only more confident in themselves, but their anger issues were starting to subside.  We have been participating in judo for almost 2 years now…the results have been better grades, warmer smiles, and dedication to a sport that comes before personal plans.  They have learned respect, honor and discipline – not only within themselves, but for others too. 

I’ll never forget our first tournament.  The three boys I remember who fought and picked on one another relentlessly were now on their knees cheering and supporting one another no matter what the outcome.  They were no longer the three young boys I remembered, but three young men.

As a family, we are so blessed to have Jeff and Amy Laurell in our lives.  They are not only great coaches for the sport of Judo but great mentors for developing children and young adults.  We are not just a Team at Suzuran Dojo, but we are family.”

Coleen Chrencik

Divide, CO