Welcome to Tri-Valley Judo and Jiu-Jitsu, Pleasanton’s premier martial arts dojo, established in 2009. Located at 1262 Quarry Lane #A. We are proud to bring world-class training to the East Bay, serving students age 5-65+. As a registered USA Judo Club and a IBJJF-affiliated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, we offer a dynamic blend of traditional Judo, BJJ and wrestling.
Our team of competition-proven instructors draws from American, Asian, and European martial arts traditions. Led by Sensei Kevin, our academy has trained national champions and built a community where students thrive, whether they’re here for fitness, self-defense, competition, or fun. Our classes cater to all levels: kids’ programs teach resilience and bully-proofing, while adults enjoy tailored sessions for recreation or mastery—all in a supportive, family-friendly environment.
At Tri-Valley, we’re more than a dojo—we’re a home away from home. With no hidden fees, a free first class, and discounts for families, first responders, and military, we are committed to making martial arts accessible and rewarding. Join us to sharpen your skills, boost your confidence, and become part of our tight-knit crew. Contact us at (925) 989-6027 or sign up for a trial today.

What is Judo?

Judo primarily focuses on throwing your opponent onto the ground with control, speed, and force, aiming for a flat back landing. After bringing our opponent to the ground, we employ jiu-jitsu strategies to control and submit them.

Our weekly Judo classes teach students traditional Judo techniques via repeated practice and randori (live sparring).Our Judo classes offer a comprehensive training experience. For specific times and further details, please refer to our schedule sheet.

Head Coach / Program Director

Sensei Kevin Butler

Rank: Godan – 5th Degree Black Belt Judo 1st Degree IBJJF Certified BJJ Black Belt

Sensei Kevin began judo at age 5 under his father Bill Butler.

Promoted to black belt by Willy Cahill and coached by Steve Siroy. An International Gold Coach for USA Judo for over 15 years he has lead US Teams as head coach or assistant coach in 15 Countries. Coach Kevin has coached two athletes at the Jr/Cadet World Championships and 5 athletes at the Pan American Championships Infantile/cadet.

JUDO ACHIEVEMENTS

2023 PAN AMERICAN CHAMPION Mexico.
2022 VET WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS, POLAND 7TH.
RANKED #1 in the USA, M6 -81k.
NATIONAL REFEREE

BJJ ACHIEVEMENTS

2023 Asian Championships Nagoya, Japan 2nd
2020 BJJ Masters World Champion at the black belt level.

WRESTLING

Head wrestling coach of local high school

PROFESSION

Fire Battalion Chief (Retired) 32 years of service.

JUDO

Judo was founded in 1882 by D. Jigoro Kano and means the “gentle way.” It teaches people of all ages the importance of flexibility when applying technique. In judo, when performing a throw or other skill, emphasis is placed on flexibility and efficiently using your leverage and balance for every movement. To be successful in judo, it’s much more important to learn technique, timing, and skill, instead of simply using brute strength to win.

Jiu Jitsu

Jiu Jitsu first originated in Japan. Later, it moved to South America via a Japanese diplomat Mitsyuo Maeda to form the modern Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. In the early 1900s, it took shape with the help of Maeda. He was trained in Judo which was also called Kano Jiu Jitsu, from where the Brazilians picked the name for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Jiu-Jitsu has it’s roots in Judo, Maeda established himself in Brazil and set up an academy to provide formal training in this format.

Our Instructors

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Contact

TVJpleasanton@gmail.com
925-989-6027

Location

1262 Quarry Lane #A, Pleasanton, CA 94566