Jacob began competing at his first tournament in February, and won 3rd place. Not bad for the first time out on the competition floor. The following month, March, he took two first places with an outstanding performance as described by his father below:

"Jacob Mueller won two gold medals at the March Madness Judo Tournament. He fought 5 times (4 different opponents) and won all his matches. He won his weight division AND an expanded division of more experienced kids. He won four matches within 10 seconds, and the championship one by dominating a bigger kid on the ground. His groundwork was clearly superior and I was asked by a lot of people as to where he trains. I was sure to mention and credit Warrior's Cove for his ground work." - Kent Mueller

In April he again won 1st place at the USJA State Championships!

"In May Jacob took 1st place in his weight division.  He also won a 3 place in the 12 year old light weight group (Jacob is 9 years old). He had 6 fights and won 4 in this division. Again, his groundwork stood out as he reversed a holddown by an experienced opponent who weighed 25 pounds more than him and held him for the required 25 seconds for a win. Against another twelve year old he reversed him twice and the crowd went nuts! Unfortunately, he ended up losing to him just because of the age and experience. When Jacob took his award after this the crowd gave him a long ovation. This was the USJI State Championships. He now qualifies for the Junior Olympics this July in Atlanta, Georgia. Thanks for the training." - Kent Mueller

February 2006 - Jacob placed first this weekend at the Agate City Judo Tournament in Two Harbors. He had two fights and won them both. Thunder Bay sent about 30 kids! - Kent Mueller