JC Judo Club & Jujitsu
The Face of Martial Arts

I started practicing Judo in 1985 when I was 6 years old. My first instructor was Sensei Dale Otto. The program was at the YMCA; to this day, I still have so many great memories of training there and competing at tournaments. These memories and the love that was instilled into me for Judo are the reasons why I teach and still practice today while running the school as the head instructor and owner. Sensei Dale Otto still comes in and visits with our school. I won many tournaments as a young man, including the Junior Olympics when I was 9 years old. I can still remember the very first time I was thrown in a match. Even now, as an adult, I still compete, not only in regular tournaments but also Kata tournaments. Currently, I am a third-degree black belt (Sandan) in Judo and a national coach, certified Kata instructor (in two Kata’s), regional USA Judo referee, national AAU referee, special needs Judo coach, and a third-degree black belt (Sandan) in Shingitai Jujitsu. I am also concussion certified and Safe Sport certified.

We are a family-run school with my wife, Alicia, taking care of registrations and my own kids participating in training while I provide instruction. Our school is more than a Judo and Jujitsu school; it’s our ministry and a place where we help make positive differences in people’s lives. We keep our tuition low, but we provide a high-quality training facility, strength training equipment, a mat area of 4,200 square feet, and quality instruction by four certified black belts. We all have a strong connection as a family because that’s what we are, a Judo and Jujitsu family. 

I truly believe that Judo has helped me become a better man and a better business owner. I want to give the same to everyone who walks through our door. Our goal for the school is to provide our community the best training and environment possible! My family and I do this because we love it and want the best life possible for everyone. Jefferson City Judo Club has been in this community since 1965, starting out at Lincoln University, and we plan on being here for many more decades to come. Please come and become part of our family and support local!

Josh Lehmen is a 3rd degree black belt who is certified in two katas, and is currently training national competitors.
Pictured: Theodore, Calvin, Lincoln, Alicia, Franklin, Josh, and Gwendolyn Lehmen. In 2023, Gwendolyn ranked #1 nationally.

JC Judo Club & Jujitsu: 1301 Creek Trail Dr., JCMO
(573) 301-1738 | jeffersoncityjudoclub.com