John Paccione
Head coach
- 7th degree blackelt Judo
- 6th degree black belt Japanese Jujitsu
- Former USJA president
About our dojo
Kodokan Judo & Jiujitsu of Cape Coral is renowned for its top level instructors, having produced several top-ranking competitors both nationally and internationally.
Kodokan Judo & Jiujitsu of Cape Coral was founded with a vision to bring its rich martial arts traditions to the community of Cape Coral and Fort Myers. Our journey began with a passion for excellence in martial arts and a dedication to bringing out the very best in each student.
Having served Cape Coral and Fort Myers since 2009, Kodokan Judo & Jiujitsu has earned a reputation for exceptional training and a supportive learning environment. Our students reflect the dedication and passion we instill in every aspect of our teachings.
Our core values
Excellence
We pursue high standards in every class and support athletes to perform at their best.
Community
We foster a welcoming, inclusive environment where every judoka can grow and belong.
Integrity
We uphold respect, honesty, and fairness on and off the mat, building a culture of trust.
Why train here?
A straight comparison — because your first gym sets the tone for how you feel about martial arts forever.
At Kodokan Cape Coral
- ✓ Coaches with national and international competitive experience
- ✓ Complete standing and ground curriculum — not one or the other
- ✓ Beginners train with clear progressions and support
- ✓ Free first class; transparent path to membership
- ✓ Guest instructors and champions visit regularly
Typical strip-mall gym
- — Instructors may have limited competitive or coaching depth
- — Heavy focus on either striking only or only ground sport
- — Beginners thrown into advanced classes without a roadmap
- — Long contracts before you know if it is a fit
- — Random techniques week to week
Instructors
Our coaches bring decades of competitive and teaching experience to the mat — selected for their qualifications and their ability to guide every judoka, from first class to advanced competition.
Since 2009, Kodokan Judo & Jiujitsu of Cape Coral has built a supportive environment where technical depth and community go hand in hand. Get to know the team leading your training.
Ivan Cilano
Instructor
- 4th degree black belt judo
- Former Italian national team coach
- XX Years of experience
Kasia Jablonski
Instructor
- 4th degree black belt judo
- Blue Belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
- Former Polish Junior National Team member
Ricardo Martinez
Instructor
- 2nd degree black belt judo
- USMC Veteran
- XX Years of experience
Ernesto Viera Sifonte
Instructor
- 2nd degree black belt judo
- Experienced Competitor
- XX Years of experience
Michael Hernandez
Instructor
- 1st degree black belt judo
- Experienced competitor
- XX years of experience
How to start
Visit us — your first class is free
Call ahead or walk in during a scheduled class. Arrive about ten minutes early and we will set you up with a clean gi for the session.
Walk in welcome
No pressure sales — just real coaching and a chance to feel the culture on the mat.
Structured curriculum
Throws, pins, transitions, and groundwork taught in an order that builds skill without chaos.
Day-one partners
Train alongside people who remember being new — not a room full of silent experts.
Visit
Stop in during class
We are easy to find in Cape Coral. Questions? Call and we will make sure you have everything you need before you step on the mat.
Hours of operation
Monday 6–7:30 AM / 10:30 AM–1:30 PM / 4:30–9:30 PM
Tuesday 10:30 AM–12 PM / 5–9:30 PM
Wednesday 6–7:30 AM / 10:30 AM–1:30 PM / 4:30–9:30 PM
Thursday 10:30 AM–12 PM / 5–9:30 PM
Friday 6–7:30 AM / 10:30 AM–1:30 PM / 4:30–9:30 PM
Saturday 9 AM–1 PM
Sunday 10 AM–1 PM
Frequently asked questions
What is Judo?
The word “Judo” literally translates to “gentle way” or “soft way,” which might seem contradictory when you watch judokas (Judo practitioners) throwing each other through the air. However, the “gentle” refers to the art’s core principle: using an opponent’s force and momentum against them rather than meeting force with force.
Do I need experience to start?
No. Beginners are welcome every week. We introduce fundamentals step by step and pair you with appropriate training partners.
Is Judo good exercise?
Yes, judo is an excellent form of exercise that delivers comprehensive physical and mental benefits, making it one of the more well-rounded workout options available.
What should I bring for my free class?
Comfortable athletic clothes if you prefer to observe first; otherwise we provide a clean loaner gi for your trial class. Arrive a few minutes early.
Is judo safe for kids?
We emphasize controlled drilling, safe falling, and respect on the mat. Competition is optional and always matched to age and experience.
How is this different from BJJ-only gyms?
You train throws and standing grappling alongside ground work. Our Kosen-style track keeps guard and leg entanglements in the curriculum while still building classic judo foundations.