In 2025, we opened the Bowen Island Judo Club. We are registered with Judo BC, and our instructors are nationally certified.
Cohen started judo with his father at age 11 at the local North Delta Judo Club, where he soon fell in love with the sport. He developed a passion for competitive judo, going on to win gold at the 2011 Canada Winter Games after winning the BC Provincials six times.
He was privileged to train with some of the world's most notable Olympic judo medalists, from his time attending Japan's Tenri University Judo Club, to training in Kazakhstan with their national team where he experienced some of the grappling styles that Central Asia is renowned for.
Cohen is an NCCP certified judo instructor. He received his black belt in 2009 and previously instructed part time at the Burnaby Judo Club and Peak Judo Club. Cohen is also a student and fan of Brazilian jiu-jitsu and integrates elements of BJJ into his instruction.
While Cohen enjoys coaching competitive judo, he is focused on the art as a whole and values coaching recreational judo. With always something new to learn, he believes that judo offers benefits to participants of any background or experience. Through promoting goal setting and fostering resilience, Cohen believes that judo is one of the greatest sports for personal growth.
Through judo Cohen has trained under great coaches, made life-long friends, and enjoyed the time with his father. He is now excited to share judo with the Bowen Island community that he calls home.
Off the mats, Cohen enjoys time outdoors, valuing nature as a balance to the busyness of career and family life.
Dave started judo in 1977 at the Steveston Judo Club, where he learned from some of Judo BC's pioneering senseis. Learning judo throughout his teenage years, Dave looks back fondly on developing his fitness, coordination, and skill proficiency. Dave had his share of successes at regional tournaments but also enjoyed the social element of training with his fellow students.
Following a 20 year break due to career and family obligations, Dave returned to the mats with his son. He is grateful for the bond judo created with his son, as well as the passion it sparked for coaching, and watching the development of those around him.
He believes judo is a uniquely valuable sport for its physical and mental benefits. Randori - the Japanese word for freestyle sparring - requires flexible thinking and fast-pace problem solving. Physically, randori develops the core athletic motions and skillsets for self defence, and is a full body workout. The benefits carry over into daily life through improved mindfulness, respect for others, and confidence, to name a few.
Dave is an NCCP certified judo instructor. He co-founded the Delta Kaigan Judo Club in 2005, and received his black belt in 2008. Now in his 60s, he still practices judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, which continues to be a source of fitness and lifelong learning. Recently arriving on Bowen to be closer to his grandchildren has given Dave the opportunity to continue his journey with judo through instructing at the Bowen Island Judo Club.
Off the mats, Dave is a musician, bringing creativity and grounded perspective to all aspects of life.
