The TFF Judo & Wrestling Experience

Leo Lopes

Leo Lopes is a highly accomplished judoka, holding a 3rd degree black belt. He started practicing judo at the age of 8, honing his skills under the tutelage of Sensei Pereira at the CT Judo school. Throughout his judo career, Leo achieved numerous victories and titles in the senior black belt division. In high school, Leo decided to branch out and try his hand at wrestling, quickly becoming a star on the team with an impressive 97.6 win percentage and earning the title of CT state wrestler of the year in 1997. He continued to compete in college at both SCSU and Sacred Heart University.

With a dream of competing in the Olympics, Leo trained at the prestigious Olympic training facility in Lake Placid and achieved a ranking as high as 4th in the country. Unfortunately, a knee injury cut short his competitive judo career, but Leo was undeterred. He shifted his focus to sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience with young people, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds in Westchester. For six years, he taught judo pro bono, inspiring and empowering countless kids.

In 2020, Leo took the next step in his journey, establishing his own full-time judo school where he could devote all his time and expertise to his students. Leo's passion for judo and his commitment to helping others continue to shine through, making him a beloved and respected figure in the judo community.

Leo Lopes is not only an accomplished judoka and dedicated teacher, but he is also actively involved in promoting and advancing the sport of judo in the United States. Leo's role as the President of the New York State Judo Association showcases his commitment to advancing judo at the organizational level. His unwavering dedication to the sport and its practitioners continues to make him a true ambassador of judo, both on and off the mat. Through his leadership, Leo Lopes is leaving an indelible mark on the judo landscape in New York State, ensuring a vibrant and thriving future for the sport.

Highlights

IJF CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR

USA JUDO CONTINENTAL COACH

SENIOR BLACKBELT TITLES

EAST COAST CHAMPIONSHIPS

LIBERTY BELL CHAMPIONSHIPS

MIDWESTERN CUP

AM-CANS

WRESTLING TITLES

3X FCIAC CHAMPION

2X STATE CHAMPION

STATE OPEN CHAMPION

CT STATE WRESTLER OF THE YEAR

Burt Jones

Burt Jones is an esteemed assistant instructor of our team at Total Form Fitness Judo and Wrestling Club. Burt brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to both the kids and adult classes. His love for martial arts is contagious and creates an inspiring and dynamic atmosphere on the mats. With a deep understanding of Judo, he guides our students on a journey of self-discovery, promoting both physical fitness and personal growth.

Burt earned his Bachelor of Science in Communications from Norwich University, the oldest private military college in the nation. He also has a Masters degree in Education and Special Education from Manhattanville College.

Outside of the dojo, Burt contributes to the local athletic community as an assistant varsity football coach at White Plains High School and assistant modified wrestling coach at Highlands Middle School.

The TFF Judo & Wrestling Experience

Leo Lopes

Highlights

Burt Jones

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