Jiu Jitsu

History of Jiu Jitsu
Modern Jiu Jitsu is a traditional Martial Art that has evolved over many centuries. This is a collection of unarmed combat techniques developed by Japanese Samurai Warrior families to defeat their enemies in war and conflict. These techniques are as valuable to the protection of modern citizens as they were during the feudal era.

The employing of powerful strikes, pressure point control, locking techniques as well as dynamic throws and ground fighting make this a complete martial art. The student of Jiu Jitsu will attain both a good level of fitness and self-confidence with regular training.


Chief Instructor – Neil Dalgarno 5th Dan
  • Trained in martial arts since 1985 and has an honours degree in Kinesiology and a Bachelor degree in Education.
  • Sensei Neil holds several National Coaching Certifications
  • Trained under Sensei Tom Sharkey, 6th Dan Black Belt at the Ontario Jiu Jitsu Institute and Ranger Jiu Jitsu.
  • In 1998, after grading for 3rd Dan Black Belt, Sensei Neil began teaching at the Centre for Martial Arts, Richmond Hill.
  • Sensei Neil has instructed police officers, court officers, women’s groups, high school students, corporate employees and many others in Jiu Jitsu and self defence over the past fifteen years.
  • Sensei Neil has officiated at various Canadian Jiu Jitsu Championships and has demonstrated self-defence many times at venues such as the Rogers Centre (Skydome) in Toronto.



  • Assistant Instructor – Tony Richardson 3rd Dan
  • Started training in Jiu Jitsu in 1991 under Sensei Neil Dalgarno.
  • Received his 1st Dan Black Belt in 2000.
  • Received his 2nd Dan Black Belt in 2005.
  • Won 2nd Place in self defence demo in Canadian Martial Arts Championship in 1998.
  • Won 1st Place in self defence demo in Bellville Martial Arts competition, 1st Place in self defence demo in Centennial College Martial Arts competition and 1st Place in self defence demo in the Golden Belt Tournament in 1997.
  • Studied in 1996 under Stephen K. Hayes, head of the Nine Gates Institute, Ohio USA.
  • Studied Tae Kwon Do in 1987 at the John Park Institute for a few years.


  • The World Kobudo Federation approves the Jiu Jitsu program being taught at the Centre for Martial Arts.

    The Jiu Jitsu program presented is one that follows the traditional Japanese grading system that ranges from the white belt of the novice up to black belt level of an instructor.

    The levels in this grading system are:

    1. White Belt    
    2. Yellow Belt    
    3. Orange Belt    
    4. Green Belt    
    5. Blue Belt    
    6. Brown Belt    
    7. Black Belt (1st Dan)    


    At each belt level the student must learn a specific number of techniques and be tested on those techniques before he/she can move up to the next level.

    The time required for a student to advance from one belt level to the next will depend upon the number of times a student attends class in a month as well as the effort each student puts forth in training. For example, the average student attending three times per week could probably attain the rank of yellow belt in approximately three months. As the student advances in the ranks however the time in each rank will increase as the technical skills required become more demanding and challenging.

    Each student will receive a training syllabus to ensure that they know the requirements at each belt level.

    In order to practice Jiu Jitsu each student will be required to wear a traditional white martial arts uniform called a Gi.


    Back to Top

    © 2010 Richmond Hill Club & Resort. All Rights Reserved.