INSTRUCTORS (Sensei)
Founder’s of IMAI Judo
Tim Wilson, Steve Viera, Rome Acapon, Tracy Basterrechea.
Extended Coaching Staff
Matt Iserie, Sal Cruze, Gordan Makimoto, Paul Yoshimune, Eric Stunz,
IMAI Coaching Staff
At IMAI we have a very diverse group of instructors with a variety of judo backgrounds. This helps ensure that we deliver instruction that meets your child’s needs as they begin, or continue, their Judo journey.
Tim Wilson
Head Judo coach for IMAI. USA Judo Intercontinental Coach. Holds the rank of Black Belt (Sandan) 3rd degree black belt in Kodokan Judo. Tim began his Judo career with the McCall Judo Club before moving to Seattle where he continued his growth as a competitive Judo player. Tim was a member of the San Jose State University Judo Team, a member of the Olympic Training Center Judo Team and a National and International medalist. His focus is on sport competition with a unique ability to get the best out of your child.
Tracy Basterrechea
Head Jiu Jitsu coach for IMAI. USA Judo National Coach; United States Judo Federation (USJF) Bronze level National Coach. Holds the rank of Black Belt (Shodan) in Kodokan Judo a rank received under Sensei Rocky Lima and a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu awarded by Craig Kukuk, the first American awarded a Black Belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu. Tracy has been a national competitor and coach in Judo. He has also medaled in the Police and Fire Games in freestyle wrestling and submission grappling. Tracy is also a long time police defensive tactics instructor and an instructor for Gulla’s Arrestling System.
Tracy’s focus is on creating great competitors and even better members of our community.
Steve Viera
Competition Judo coach for IMAI. United States Judo Federation (USJF) Bronze level National coach. Holds the rank of Yodan (4th degree Black Belt). Sensei Steve started Judo in 1968, in Fall River, Massachusetts under Sensei Wayne Dickenson. Sensei Steve grew up in a rough neighborhood and he credits Judo with giving him a way out. He served in the United States Air Force from 1974-1978. Sensei Steve trained with the Capital Judo Club and the Treasure Valley Judo Club under Sensei Rocky Lima.
Sensei Steve’s emphasis is on building kids with strong values with open minds and a strong focus on anti-bullying.
Rome Acapon
Sensei Rome started Judo at a young age in Hawaii ultimately earning his Black Belt (Shodan). Sensei Rome has been a national competitor and medalist and he is currently a Certified National Judo referee.