NPAR | 21
Business Spotlight
Nokido Ju-Jitsu & Judo
Written by : Tyler T . Gibson Publisher
When Sensei Chris Ritchie became the owner of Nokido Ju-Jitsu & Judo , he wanted to maintain an approach that focused on affordability and a family-based atmosphere .
“ I do not believe in nickel and diming families ; I am not the creator and end-all ,” Ritchie said . “ I am just using the knowledge I was given and sharing it with others .”
Nokido Ju-Jitsu & Judo offers classes for individuals ages three and up . The average student practices two times a week and has the ability to compete , but only if they want too .
Nokido and its students have received several awards for their successes , including winning the Newbreed Gulf Coast Classic in 2014 , 2015 and 2016 . Ritchie describes Nokido as a self-defense school with an additional focus on personal growth .
According to its website , Nokido Ju-Jitsu & Judo offers a great method of self-defense and strives to be accessible to people of all ages and genders .
NPHS freshman CJ Thompson has trained at Nokido for the last 10 years .
“ I enjoy going there because it ’ s a fun environment where you can learn to defend yourself ,” Thompson said . “ Everyone in Nokido is like family .”
The company is known for their free self-defense for class for women , in which proceeds go to the Denise Amber Lee Foundation . Women learn self-defense for about six hours and work on mastering the techniques necessary to apply these skills to real-life situations .
Ritchie primarily studied at the University of South Florida to obtain a career in the restaurant and hospitality business . He came to the realization that he was not finding the self-fulfillment he was longing for and admits that working at Nokido has made him a better person .
Nokido offers classes in Japanese Ju-Jitsu , Kodokan Judo , Brazilian Jiu-Jutsu and a Lil ’ Samurai program . Each class targets specific styles and technique in self-defense , ground fighting and martial arts .
Nokido offers new students a free first lesson .
For more information , call ( 941 ) 258-5652 or visit 1050 Innovation Ave . Unit B109 in North Port .
Above from left : Cash McCall and Sensei Chris Ritchie Below : Justin Mack and Senpai Dave Schultz / NPAR photos by Tyler T . Gibson