Natasha Monkman

Natasha Monkman Competition Instructor

Current Rank: Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt)
Favorite Technique: O Soto Gari
In Judo Since:  1984
NCCP / Referee Status: 
First Aid: 

Natasha "Tash" Monkman: A Judo Legacy Reborn

For Tash Monkman, Judo isn’t just a sport—it’s a family legacy. A true third-generation judoka, her deep roots in the art run through the very history of our dojo; her grandfather, Sensei Bill Gribben, was the first sensei to our own Sensei Kevin.

Practically raised on the tatami from the age of four, Tash’s journey is one of early brilliance. She began competing at seven, earned her brown belt by 13, and achieved the milestone of Shodan (1st-degree black belt) in 1998 at just 17 years old. As a dedicated member of the Ontario provincial team for several years, she competed in back-to-back National Championships. Among her many podium finishes across Canada and the US, her proudest achievements remain winning consecutive bronze medals at the US Junior National tournaments in the mid-90s.

After a distinguished competitive career, Tash stepped away from the mat to build a remarkable life beyond judo, becoming a lawyer and raising a family. However, the call of the dojo is powerful. In 2024, watching her son Euan put on a gi for the first time, the embers of her passion were reignited.

True to her roots, old habits die hard. Within months, Tash was not just back—she was leading. She now brings her invaluable experience and technical wisdom to our dojo as a key instructor, guiding our competitive judoka, leading our Saturday morning classes, and even making a triumphant return to competition herself. And, as any who have trained with her know, the power of her signature O Soto Gari remains a beautiful sight to behold.

We are incredibly proud to welcome Tash Monkman back to her second home. Her journey embodies the enduring spirit of Judo, proving that the lessons of the mat never leave you, and it’s never too late to answer its call.