President's Message

As President of Jujitsu America for the next two years, I would first like to give recognition to our past President, Professor Joe Souza for the concern, time and effort, which He demonstrated in his term as President for the last three years. It takes a lot of dedication and time that sometimes goes unnoticed.

Since Jujitsu America's beginning in 1978, we have been fortunate to have many caring and talented individuals in our organization starting with the founders. They started with an idea and a vision of an organization based on good sportsmanship, strong family values, and a spirit of respect and fellowship.

In one year we will be celebrating our 30th anniversary. We have come a long way since 1978.

a. In 2006-2007, Jujitsu America reached the threshold of being 1000 members strong.

b. Sports Jujitsu has been added to JA's agenda under the direction of Prof. Willy Cahill, Eric Renner and their committee.

c. Another new activity is the Kata competition under the direction of Prof. Joe
Souza.

We need to support Jujitsu America as clubs and as individuals. While it is important that we as an organization host conventions, clinics and other activities for its members, it is just as important for its members to support functions put into place for them. We can only do this by keeping ourselves as well as our students active in Jujitsu America. The last few conventions have been disappointing as far as participation from the clubs and their members. The convention should be the highlight of a year of work and participation for all members and clubs. I encourage all club heads to contact me with their concerns and/or their suggestions on how we can improve.

We have a lot of under utilized talent in Jujitsu America, and we need to give that talent a chance to shine. I encourage anyone willing to be of service to Jujitsu America to please contact me.

I thank you for your confidence in electing me president of Jujitsu America, and will
do my best to serve you in a manner that will benefit the Jujitsu America organization as well as its membership.

Sincerely,

Scott Merrill
President
Jujitsu America

September 12th 2007