I was commissioned to create a logo for the ABOTSFORD Judo Club as part of its rebranding initiative. Founded in 1981 by Tokue Suda, a Japanese judoka, the club requested a logo that combined Suda's family crest (*kamon*) with the logo of his high school.

Drawing on my Japanese heritage and design expertise, I approached this project with a focus on cultural authenticity, balance, and adaptability. *Kamon* are deeply rooted in Japanese history and often feature circular compositions with stylized motifs inspired by nature, animals, or tools. Through research, I learned that Suda's family crest, *maru ni sumi-tate izutzu* ("well with rounded corners"), symbolizes a well, while his school logo incorporates a cherry blossom motif, a symbol of resilience and renewal in Japanese culture.

To merge these elements, I expanded the *izutzu* into a circle to preserve the *kamon*’s traditional roundness, then placed the cherry blossom at its center to create a harmonious fusion. Careful attention was given to the spatial balance between these elements to ensure the design felt cohesive and timeless.

The typography was custom-designed to complement the logo’s aesthetic. Rounded, bold letterforms were crafted to echo the circular motif while exuding strength and energy, aligning with the club’s sporting identity. By adjusting the weight, thickness, and curves, the font strikes a balance between tradition and modernity. I delivered a suite of 10 logo variations, including reverse designs, and adapted the text in Roman letters, Katakana, and Kanji to ensure versatility across different applications.

This project also emphasized practical considerations. The logo was designed for scalability, ensuring clarity and impact whether displayed on a uniform, banner, or digital platform. The simplicity of the shapes and clean lines enhances its recognizability across various sizes and mediums.

As a Japanese designer, I was honored to bring this meaningful cultural symbol to life in Canada. This project was a unique opportunity to blend tradition with contemporary design principles while contributing to the club’s legacy.