through his training in judo he began to lose weight and get in shape and began to compete in judo competitions. he went on to become one of the top ranked junior judo athletes in the country placing 2nd in the 97 usji highschool nationals, 1st in the 98 usji national junior olympic championships, 1st place in the 98 pa state judo championship. his success in competition earned him an opportunity to train for a short time at the us olympic training center.