Sensei James Zoubantes: 7/15/1932-9/4/2015

Sensei Jimmy Zoubantes, longtime Judo instructor at Black Belt Academy, passed away last Friday, September 4th at age 83. Jimmy was a student of Joe Turchino, now 8th Dan, and was a sensei to Walter Dean, now 9th Dan and Board member of US Judo Association (USJA). Jimmy was 4th Dan, Bronze Life Member with USJA and 5th Dan, Life Member with National Sport Judo.

Jimmy was a great dojo friend and mentor. We did many self-defense seminars and programs together in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. He was hard-working, usually at work in food services before 7:00am, but very easy-going in nature. He was just as fast with a joke as he was able to throw you. I will miss him. RIP.

I asked others to share information, stories, and anecdotes. Here are some of them:

Lisa Devine Kamhi: That is such sad news. I loved Jimmy. He trained me in Judo on Saturday mornings at Black Belt Academy. Such a kind and funny man. Rest in Peace.

Joe Turchiano: Jimmy was with me for 7 years during my contest years and took many high speed falls. He became a strong judoka. He taught in my old dojo for over 25 years under Black Belt Academy. He was a true brother; the only student who outsmarted me with a combination I taught him – right fake to right kosoto gari. He impacted many young lives, what a good sensei does...

Nick Roseto: I spoke with Jim last year just to let him know I didn't forget about him and thanked him for being such a big part of my childhood. I'm glad I did. May he rest in peace.