Meet Preston Mitchum, an experienced and dedicated Judo practitioner with an impressive journey that spans over two decades. His passion for Judo ignited in 2004, and since then, he has honed his skills and expertise through various achievements and training opportunities.

Preston's commitment to mastering the art of Judo led him to Bushido USA Dojo in 2014, where he found a platform to showcase his talent. Competing under the Bushido USA Dojo banner, he proudly secured medals in the novice divisions at esteemed events such as the 2014 NC State Championships, the 2014 President's Cup, and the 2015 Cherry Blossom Open.

Driven by a thirst for knowledge and cultural experiences, Preston embarked on an extraordinary journey in 2016. He relocated to Japan to participate in the prestigious JET Program, enriching his understanding of Judo and immersing himself in the local martial arts community. Joining the Nagahama Seibukan dojo (長浜誠武館), he embraced rigorous training and emerged victorious in numerous local competitions, earning him the prestigious 1st degree black belt from the revered Kodokan.

Prior to joining our esteemed club, Preston contributed his expertise as the head of the Adult Judo program at Bushido USA Dojo. His invaluable coaching experience and extensive grappling background, encompassing both Judo and Wrestling, total an impressive 20 years.

As an instructor, Preston Mitchum's certifications speak volumes about his commitment to excellence. He is a certified coach under the AAU, USA Wrestling, and USA Judo, ensuring that his teaching methods adhere to the highest standards.

Coach Angela trained judo from age 6 to 21. In those 15 years, she earned her black belt under Jason Morris and a national championship title in 2011. She made both the junior and senior world teams and earned a bronze medal at the Pan-Am Games. After a 12-year hiatus, she came back with a passion to pass on her knowledge and experience to the next generation of grapplers. She is also a jiu-jitsu purple belt. When not grappling, Coach Angela can be found reading, hanging out with her family, and hybrid homeschooling her two kids.

Josh trained under Olympic medalist Jason Morris, earning his black belt under Jason's mentorship. That experience shaped his approach to judo instruction, grounded in high-level technique but focused on making it accessible to every student. As Curriculum Developer, he designed Kaizen's program structure, ensuring students receive systematic, age-appropriate instruction that builds skills progressively. His approach emphasizes understanding the 'why' behind techniques, not just the 'how,' giving students deeper knowledge that accelerates learning. Josh has competed domestically and internationally, and specializes in breaking down complex movements into teachable components.

Diana started judo in South Florida at Budokan and trained with Ki Itsu Sai, building a deep foundation in traditional judo. A decorated competitor, Diana won gold at the 1998 Junior Olympics and the 2001 High School Nationals, earned two Junior International silver medals, and took bronze twice at the US Open (1999, 2000). She was named Best Senior Female Judoka of the Year in Florida in 1998. Judo runs in her family; her father is a black belt and her daughter now practices judo, making Diana a true multi-generational judoka. She has a lifelong commitment to teaching kids and brings warmth, patience, and structure to every class. Outside the dojo, Diana is a longtime Girl Scout troop leader, and that same dedication to youth development carries over to the mat.

Chuck Wright began his Judo journey during his college years at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After a lengthy break, he resumed training alongside his son under the guidance of Preston Mitchum, the head instructor at Black River Judo Club. 

In 2023, Chuck's dedication and skill culminated in a victory in the 90 kg division at the American Traditional Jujutsu Association Judo Nationals, demonstrating his remarkable commitment to the sport of Judo.