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, he embraced rigorous training and emerged victorious in numerous local competitions, earning him the prestigious 1st degree black belt from the revered Kodokan.

In October 2021, Preston returned to the United States, where his dedication and exceptional skills were recognized. He was awarded his well-deserved 2nd degree black belt from both the Pan-American Judo Union and USA Judo, proudly representing Bushido USA Dojo.

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.

Meet Angela Woosley, a National champion Judoka. As a 3rd degree black belt, Angela brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Black River Judo.

Angela's Judo journey began at the tender age of 6 under the guidance of renowned Olympic coach Yoshisada Yonezuka at the prestigious Cranford Judo Karate Center. She joined the Jason Morris Judo Club in 2006 to train with none other than Jason Morris himself, the head coach for the 2008 Olympic team.

With an impressive track record, Angela has secured four medals at the national championships and proudly represented the USA as a member of the national Judo team. Her achievements extend to the international stage, earning a bronze medal at the Pan-Am games in Guadalajara in 2011 and participating in the 2011 World Championships.  Angela retired from competition in 2011 to complete her college education and start a family. Now, she has returned to the mat, eager to pass on her knowledge to the next generation of competitors.

Angela's extensive experience as a competitor has endowed her with a profound understanding of Judo's fundamental principles. As a parent herself, she possesses a unique ability to intuitively transmit her expertise to children. Alongside her husband and two children, Angela now teaches a kids and women's Judo program at Bull & Bear Gym in Fuquay Varina. 

Joshua Woosley is a first-degree black belt under the esteemed 2008 Olympic Judo Coach Jason Morris. 

At the Jason Morris Judo Center, he trained alongside elite judoka such as Travis Stevens, Nick Delpopolo, and Ari and Kell Berliner. This high-caliber training environment has honed Josh's skills, elevating his judo to a world-class level. 

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.