Brevard Judo Academy

FAQ

Where is Brevard Judo Academy located?

Located at Team Camilo
6545 N. Wickham Road #104F
Melbourne, FL 32940-2056

Team Camilo is a mixed martial arts gym that has MMA, BJJ, boxing and kickboxing, under 4th degree BJJ black belt and MMA pro fighter Wanderley Camilo.

When is class times for Brevard Judo Academy?

Tuesday and Thursday from 7:30 PM till 8:30 PM Eastern time

What does it cost per month to take Judo?

For Judo only at Team Camilo, it is $159.
If added to the other arts at Team Camilo, it is $179.

What association is Brevard Judo Academy a part of?

Brevard Judo Academy is an United States Judo Assocation (a.k.a. USJA) registered club. All promotions are done through USJA. USJA yearly fee is currently $75 for USJA non-life members and $45 for current USJA life members

Who is the chief Judo instructor at Brevard Judo Academy?

David J. Ellis. To see more information about him see Instructor Team and About us.
To see who is assisting David in teaching Judo see Instructor Team.

What is Judo?

The word Judo is derived from two Japanese characters: Ju (meaning "gentle") and Do (meaning "way"). Judo has also been translated by some as the "Way of Flexibility". Dr. Kano explained that Judo is based on the principles of "maximum efficiency" (seiryoku zenyo) and "mutual benefit and welfare" (jita kyoei), with the ultimate goal being the "harmonious development and eventual perfection of human character."
Judo is an Olympic martial art that teaches balance, discipline, throws, pins, and confidence in a structured environment.

What is the purpose in learning Judo?

The development of character, mind, and body so that one can contribute something of value to the world.

What are the other main principles in learning Judo?

The principle of cooperation (jita kyoei), working for mutual benefit and welfare. The principle of maximum efficiency (seiryoku zenyo), using the least amount of effort to achieve the greatest results.

Where did Judo come from?

Modern Judo is a martial art based on the traditional Jujitsu, (also spelled Jujutsu), fighting and self-defense techniques of Japan.

What is the difference between Judo and jujitsu?

Judo is the modern scientific application of selected jujitsu techniques that may be practiced for self-development, physical education and sport. Jujitsu retains more dangerous self-defense techniques, while Judo can generally be practiced with full force and complete safety.

When and where did Judo begin?

Judo was first officially taught at the Kodokan Judo Institute in Tokyo, Japan in 1882.

Who created Judo?

Judo was created by Professor Jigoro Kano (1860-1938). He studied jujitsu at an early age and founded the Kodokan to teach the art of Judo.

What must every beginner learn about Judo?

How to fall (ukemi) and the rules of safety and courtesy

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About Brevard Judo Academy

Brevard Judo Academy was established in March 2026 and held its first class on April 2, 2026. The academy was founded by David J. Ellis, Jose Merino, and Manon Saulnier with the goal of providing high-quality Judo instruction in a welcoming, respectful, and safe environment for students of all experience levels. Jose Merino and Manon Saulnier, who brings over 35 years of Judo experience, assist with Judo instruction at Brevard Judo Academy. They are joined by Wilfredo Torres-Negron, who brings 53 years of Judo experience, and Mike Allison, who brings over 35 years of Judo experience.

Chief Instructor David J. Ellis began his Judo journey in June 1975 under Patty McMahon at the Patrick Air Force Base Judo Club. He began teaching Judo in 1980 under the guidance of his father, John R. Ellis, with the Palm Bay Judo Team.

Over the years, David has trained under Patty McMahon, Dave Daley, John R. Ellis, Betty Stamm, David Parritt, and Fred Fries. He has served continuously as either an assistant instructor or chief instructor of a Judo club since 1980.

In addition to his coaching experience, David has been an active Judo referee for more than four decades. He became a certified Regional Referee in Florida in 1984, served as a USA Judo National Referee from 2002 to 2009, was promoted to Pan American Judo Confederation C-Level Referee in 2009, and has held the International Judo Federation (IJF) Continental (B-Level) Referee certification since April 2018.

With over 50 years of Judo experience, Chief Instructor David J. Ellis is committed to helping every student reach their full potential.

Whether you are stepping onto the mat for the first time or are an experienced Judoka looking to continue your training, Brevard Judo Academy welcomes you.

We welcome:

• Beginners and experienced Judoka
• Recreational students
• Competitive athletes

We invite you to experience the benefits of Judo in a supportive and respectful environment. Come visit Brevard Judo Academy and try your first class free!

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