Steve Sasaki Award to Fred Gietz of Fernie Judo Club

On Saturday, October 25, 2025 the Judo BC Awards to celebrate clubs, athletes, coaches, volunteers for the 2024-2025 season were held in Burnaby, BC. Fred Gietz of Fernie Judo Club was awarded the Steve Sasaki Award which is presented annually to a long time member of Judo BC who exemplifies the principles of Kodokan Judo.

About Fred Gietz…
Since 15 mats were left as a legacy of the BC Winter games in 1987, Fred Gietz has committed himself to the Fernie Judo Club. In 2012 when asked by a reporter trying out a judo class – “Why do you continue to practice judo?” his answer was “In judo, you work together with your partner. But the number one reason we do it is because it’s fun.” This exemplifies the principles of Kodokan Judo.

Head Sensei of the club, President of the Fernie Elks lodge which he joined after witnessing first hand how much support they game to the Fernie Judo Club, NCCP learning facilitator and member of the Judo BC Coach Development Committee, Fred Gietz has made an enduring impact on the judo community — through leadership, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the values of respect, perseverance, and community.

Congratulations, Sensei Gietz – this recognition is truly well-deserved!