Jack Hatton: A Tribute

Six years ago, the judo world lost one of its brightest rising stars, my dear friend and brother-in-arms, Jack Hatton. I had known Jack since our early days in upstate New York, where we shared the same dojo during my competitive years. But it wasn’t until later, from 2016 through 2019, that I truly came to know him - when I had the privilege of coaching alongside him at countless tournaments around the world during his pursuit of the Olympic dream. Together we endured weight cuts, long-haul flights, and the grind of international competition. But what I cherish most are the quiet moments - the conversations, the laughs, the sense of camaraderie that only comes from walking the same difficult path. One memory stands out above all: Jack once visited me in California to train with a few USA Judo teammates. At the end of that week, we had a barbecue at my house. We sat in the backyard, drinking a six-pack of Modelo, talking late into the night about life, the sport, and the future. When only two beers remained, we promised to save them - to open them together in Tokyo after he competed at the 2020 Olympics, hopefully celebrating a medal. The morning I got the call that Jack had taken his own life, I opened one of those beers in disbelief and heartbreak. I kept the other in my refrigerator for more than a year, a daily reminder of how fragile and precious life is. And when I finally stood in Tokyo at the conclusion of the 81kg competition, I sat alone and opened that final beer - crying, grieving, remembering my brother. That beer became a memorial, not just for Jack’s journey, but for ours - the bond we shared, the encouragement he gave me when others doubted, the way we lifted each other up. Jack was more than an athlete. He was a light, a fighter, and a friend whose impact on me will never fade. His memory continues to push me forward as a coach, as a mentor, and as a man. I think of him often - in Morocco, where we battled the scale together, in Tokyo, wandering the streets trying to blend in, and in every dojo I step into. Jack’s story is one of immense talent, deep humanity, and a reminder of the struggles so many athletes carry quietly. I will forever honor his memory, his laughter, and the brotherhood we shared. ---------------------------------------------------- Justin Flores has developed a system with the modern day grappler in mind. This platform JFLO ACADEMY is here to help you improve whether you're a beginner, experienced grappler or high level black belt. We are here to help you play the best gi and no-gi game and reach your full potential on the mat! Sign Up Here https://jfloacademy.com/ Instagram Justin Flores: @jflojudo Links For Discount Codes: https://jfloacademy.com/ LXB: https://levelxblack.com/ Artic Dips: https://articdips.com Dollamur: JFLO10 Jfloacademy (annual membership only): STUDIO54010