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The kind judoka

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 12, 2009

Nobody forgets Ed Maley. And that's to our good fortune, because the lessons he teaches are ones that should be remembered.

Barrel-chested, loud, with a hoarse Brooklyn accent that could curdle milk, the legendary local judo instructor is an intimidating presence. He takes no guff. But behind that irascible veneer is a tender-hearted mentor who wants all his students, regardless of their athletic ability, to strive for excellence.

Through the rough and tumble sport of judo, he teaches larger lessons about self-discipline, perseverance and respect for others, including opponents.

Today has been declared "Professor Ed Maley Day" by both Hillsborough County and the city of Tampa in honor of Maley's 60 years of teaching. His Florida School of Judo on South MacDill once was a Tampa institution. Now he teaches in Brandon. He has instructed more than 80,000 students through the years and no doubt many will be on hand for the festivities at the Campo YMCA in Brandon.

But even those who have never set foot in one of Maley's demanding classes should appreciate the good he has done for the community by helping so many become better individuals and better citizens.

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