Rustu Yildirim

Internationally reknown and respected competitor Rustu Yildirim began

training in judo when he was 7 years old in Turkey. He won and placed in

countless national and international tournaments including World Cups all over Europe and placing in the Cadet World Championships twice. He also placed 7th in the European Championships at the tender age of 17. Awarded his black belt at that time, Rustu continued his education earning a B.S. in Sports Education from Selcuk University, a very prestigious university in Turkey.

Rustu's coach for most of his competitive career in Turkey was Rahman

Incedayi, a National Coach who has trained an Olympic Gold Medalist, and

several world medalists for Turkey. A truly gifted coach and trainer,

Rahman ran one of the most successful national training curriculums in

Turkey. Rustu assisted Rahman at his school, working with the junior

students. Rustu's junior competition team was one of the most successful

in Turkey.

Rustu moved to Orange County in 2007. Since then he has not only been helping train some young and upcoming competitors but has successfully continued his competition career in the United States winning the major tournaments he has participated in. In 2008, he went to the Olympic Training Camp in SJSU to help prepare their heavyweights for the Olympic Trials.

Rustu's education, experience, and enthusiasm for the sport of judo and teaching it to the next generation of judo players makes him a truly exceptional youth teacher. His classes are fun and challenging, and help his youthful students  develops strength, balance, technique and confidence in an environment that teaches discipline and respect for themselves and others.

We are delighted that Rustu shares our principles, vision, and values. We are pleased that Rustu has  joined our organization, and look forward to working with him in our mission to teach our students judo at the highest levels, and make a positive impact in their lives.