English Judo Blogs

Japanese judo has long regarded the U73kg category as one of its strongest divisions, and Tatsuki Ishihara has become the latest name to emerge from that extraordinary conveyor belt of talent. The 23 year old has enjoyed a rapid rise over the past three seasons, culminating in a bronze medal at the 2025 World Championships in Budapest. The medal confirmed that Ishihara belongs among the world's elite in one of judo's most competitive weight categories. Read more

By the end of the preliminaries for the category U81kg in Qingdao, Austria’s Bernd Fasching and Azeri Zelim Tckaev had emerged as the two finalists, each through a very different route. Behind them, Heydarov, Maddaloni Nosa, Parlati and Sukhoparov had all kept themselves in the medal conversation, setting up a final block that promised to be as tense as the morning had been unpredictable. Read more

Facing her first Grand Prix final against the vastly experienced Lara Cvjetko (CRO), Tamara Lishchenko (RUS) showed no sign of nerves in Qingdao. The -70 kg category never truly settled into a predictable rhythm. From the first rounds onwards, the draw kept shifting, with several strong contenders reaching the latter stages without any clear favourite taking full control of the morning. Read more

The Japanese team is busy with a statement in Qingdao as Japan rules the medal table, also in the men's -73 kg category which is one of the most unpredictable events of the day. The gold medal contest brought together two former Paris Grand Slam winners and quickly developed into a gripping, tactical battle. Japan’s Tatsuki Ishihara and Uzbek Shakhram Ahadov in a fight for the grip which dominated the opening exchanges, neither judoka willing to concede even the smallest advantage. Read more

The final for women U63kg in Qingdao brought together two of Asia's finest young talents and immediately lived up to expectations. JiSu Kim (OR) came within inches of taking the lead with a spectacular reverse seoi-otoshi in classic Korean style, only for Japanese Narumi Tanioka to escape by the narrowest of margins. Less than a minute later, however, the Korean found her breakthrough, driving home a perfectly timed o-uchi-gari to score a yuko and move ahead. Tanioka refused to panic and, wi... Read more

Montréal, June 26, 2026 –  Laurence Biron , who won gold last week at the Pan-American Open in Buenos Aires, continued her winning streak on Friday, once again claiming the top spot on the podium in the under-63 kg division, this time at the Pan-American Open in Santiago, Chile. In the big final for her weight category, the Canadian found herself up against Creymarlin Valdez of the Dominican Republic. Biron quickly launched her attacks, scoring a waza-ari in the opening moments of the... Read more

Japanese super star Hifumi Abe once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the finest judoka of his generation. Apart from a bronze medal at last year's world championships in Budapest, the Japanese star has remained virtually untouchable for years. Since claiming bronze at the 2019 World Championships in Tokyo and the defeat in Budapest, he has not suffered a defeat on the international stage. It is an extraordinary record. Read more

Maysa Pardayeva (TKM) was a huge surprise in Qingdao winning gold 52kg in her weight class and she continued her remarkable run by defeating Japan's Momo Tamaoki (JPN) in the semi-final. The final was therefore set between the French newcomer Martha Fawaz and the Turkmen judoka, both chasing the biggest success of their careers. Read more

The final for women U52kg in Qingdao was between Mascha Ballhaus who held a slight advantage in the standing exchanges, against Fujishiro repeatedly looked to capitalise in ne-waza whenever the opportunity arose. With less than a minute remaining, the Japanese judoka combined both aspects perfectly. A powerful sode-tsuri-komi-goshi earned her waza-ari before she immediately followed the attack into kansetsu-waza, forcing the submission for ippon. It was a superb demonstration of transition j... Read more

The gold medal contest U60kg in Qingdao remained finely balanced until the closing minute. Hayato Kondo had enjoyed the upper hand in the gripping exchanges with British surprise Charlie Ayre but had been unable to break through Ayre's resilient defence, the Briton repeatedly managing to recover from dangerous situations. With less than a minute remaining, the Japanese judoka finally found the opening, countering powerfully for waza-ari. Moments later, he followed the action into ne-waza, se... Read more

The final in Qingdao for women U48kg featured Tugce Beder (TUR) and Wenna Zhuang (CHN), giving the home supporters one last opportunity to celebrate a gold. Beder made the stronger start, scoring a yuko with a well-executed yoko tomoe-nage. Zhuang, however, responded in magnificent fashion. A powerful right-sided o-soto-gari earned her a waza-ari and shifted the momentum completely in her favour. Read more

9 – 22 July                Junior European Cups in Paks (Hungary) and Sarajevo (Bosnia) 18 – 26 July26          Hong Kong and Macau Asian Cadet and Junior Cups 26Jul - 2Aug26         Commonwealth Games Glasgow, Scotland (31Jul - 2Aug Judo) Read more

The Budokan limited-edition Perth-minted special medallions have been designed, produced and delivered and now await presentation to our 16 recipients of 2026 National Championship Gold medals.  Read more

At the 2026 National Championships it became official that Josh has been selected to the 11-strong National Team to the 2026 Commonwealth Games. The whole team were presented to the Judo community at the Nationals to celebrate the occasion.  Read more

After moving back to the 60kg weight division and commencing his 2028 Olympic qualification cycle, Josh Katz headed off to the Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia) Grand Slam in which he competed on 19th June. Read more

What more can be said other than:   “The best performance by Budokan Judo Club at a National Championships in 25 years”, and   “The best performing Australian club at the 2026 Nationals”   2026_nationals_entries_results.pdf Read more

Our first Dynamic Balance for Life program has been completed. This is a special program designed for senior citizens. Program goals are to provide participants with skills to: Read more

No significant updates to report on in this Newsletter. For our newer members, the club takes child safety very seriously - it is our genuine desire and our obligation to foster a culture which promotes safety and wellbeing for our children.  Read more

Hi to all Budokanis, Welcome to the June newsletter – short and sweet this month with only great things to report. I’ll leave it at that and let you read the articles and attachment – enjoy!! Read more

James Lamont RIP The Executive Committee, clubs, members and staff of the Irish Judo Association send their deepest condolences to the Lamont Family on the untimely passing of one of our pre-cadet members James Lamont aged 13. We extend our sympathies to his parents Dawn & Robert, his brothers & sisters Rebecca, Callum, Jessica & Alannah and to his fellow club mates in Simply Judo. Our thoughts are with you at this very difficult time. Funeral Details are available here No flowers please. Don... Read more

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The Welsh Judo Association is seeking a passionate and committed volunteer to support the continued development of technical officiating across Wales. Welsh Judo Association Technical Officials Representative Technical officials play a vital role in the successful delivery of judo competitions. From timekeepers and scorers to recorders and competition controllers, they help ensure events are delivered safely, fairly, and professionally. The Technical Officials Representative will act as ... Read more

Two of Canada’s judokas stepped onto the podium on the final day of the Pan-American Open in Buenos Aires, Argentina, including  Keagan Young , who captured a gold medal at his first competition in over a year. In February of last year, the Ontarian suffered a serious toe injury and, after months without a proper diagnosis, finally underwent surgery. While he was away from the tatamis, he spent a lot of time in the weight room, and eventually decided to move up a weight category. T... Read more

Welsh Judo is pleased to announce the athletes selected to represent Wales at the British National Team Championships 2026, taking place on Saturday 4 July 2026. The annual event brings together some of the best young judoka from across the Home Nations, competing as teams in a unique format that rewards both individual excellence and collective team spirit. The Welsh squad features athletes from clubs across the country, reflecting the strength and depth of the Welsh performance pathway... Read more

François Gauthier-Drapeau  (-81 kg) finished fifth at the Grand Slam in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on Saturday. Meanwhile, at the same event,  Justin Lemire  (-73 kg) secured the first victory of his career in a competition of this calibre. Gauthier-Drapeau, who is ranked fourth in the world in his weight class, bowed out to number one-ranked Timur Arbuzov of Russia in the bronze medal final. Arbuzov secured the win by scoring two yukos halfway through regulation time. “[François] had ... Read more

It is my great honor, on behalf of the United States Judo Federation, to congratulate Corinne Shigemoto on her induction into the U.S. Judo Hall of Fame. Read more

Evelyn Beaton  (-52 kg) and  Julien Frascadore  (-66 kg) were the two sole Canadians stepping onto the tatami Friday at the Ulaanbaatar Grand Slam, and sadly faced defeated in their first bouts in Mongolia, owing to incredibly tough competition. Beaton’s day came to end after she lost by ippon to Japanese judoka – and eventual gold medallist – Uta Abe. The Alberta-based athlete faced stiff competition from the start, given that Abe has one of the most impressive track records among al... Read more

The Welsh Judo Association is proud to announce the selection of eight judoka who will represent Wales at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, marking a significant milestone for the athletes, their coaches, clubs and the wider Welsh judo community. The squad showcases the strength and depth of Welsh judo, bringing together Commonwealth Games experience, World Class Performance Programme athletes, British champions, international medallists and some of the country’s most exciting emergin... Read more

Condolences to the Scott Family The Irish Judo Association is saddened to hear of the passing of Mr Gerard Scott, father-in-law to Emma McCabe Scott who serves on the IJA Board of Directors and grandfather of Harry & Abbie Scott from Yamakwai Judo Club. We extend our deepest sympathies to his son Gerard, to Emma, Harry & Abbie and the extended Scott family at this time. May He Rest In Peace. The post Condolences to the Scott Family first appeared on Irish Judo Association . Read more

The post National Grading 07.06.2026 Dan Promotions first appeared on Irish Judo Association . Read more

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The Irish Judo Association is the National Governing Body for the sport of Judo in Ireland. Our mission aims to develop, foster, promote, and organise judo activities and offer guidance and leadership whilst preserving the integrity and principles of the sport of judo on the island of Ireland. The Irish Judo Association is committed to providing an environment that will result in an increase in the level of participation and performance in Irish Judo. The Association is seeking a suitable can... Read more

The United States Judo Federation extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Ron Tripp, USA Judo CEO Corinne Shigemoto and USJF Executive Director Robert for their collaboration in establishing this reciprocal membership agreement. Read more

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Judo Canada is proud to recognize Catherine Beauchemin-Pinard, Olympian and Olympic medallist, who has made history by becoming the youngest female Rokudan in Canadian judo history. This important promotion to 6th dan black belt marks another remarkable milestone in Catherine’s already exceptional journey. Known for her determination, discipline, technical excellence and commitment to Canadian judo, Catherine has inspired generations of judokas through her performances on the national and... Read more

Judo Canada is proud to welcome Steelhaus as a new partner and the official presenter of the 2026 Awards and Recognition Gala, held in Calgary on May 17 as part of the Open National Championships. The annual gala is an important moment for the Canadian judo community. It brings together athletes, coaches, clubs, officials, volunteers, families, and partners to celebrate the people who contribute to the growth and success of judo across the country. This year’s edition honoured seventeen a... Read more

After winning five gold medals yesterday in the cadet division, the Canadian team followed up with another strong performance on Sunday at the Junior Pan-American Cup in Lima, Peru.  Anes Mati ,  Amir Temirbaev, Matthew Molchanov , and  Franck David Moussima Ewane Elouti  all ended the day at the top of the podium in their respective weight divisions. Gabrieli Makhatadze  was also a contender for gold, but he bowed out to his countrymate Temirbaev in the big final and will return home... Read more

The GB international and World Masters medallist, Mark Fricker talks honestly about how Pembee streamlined Read more The post Mark Fricker Interview: How Pembee has helped simplify dojo admin appeared first on Judo Books by Koka Kids . Read more

Team Canada Golden in Lima Canadian judokas swept the podium Saturday at the Lima Cadet Panamerican Cup (Peru). All five Canadians reached the finals, and better still, all five won gold medals in their respective weight classes. Amir Temirbaev  (-60 kg) and  Anes Mati  (-66 kg) both faced and surpassed three opponents, and then went on to claim the top spot on the podium. Temirbaev’s wins were decisive in his first two bouts: in under 90 seconds he was victorious. He capped off hi... Read more

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 OPEN PRACTICE FOR ALL JUDOKA AND JUDO CLUBS IN THE AREA SATURDAY JUNE 20TH, 12:30PM – 3:30PMWARM UPS, DRILLS, INSTRUCTION, OPEN RANDORI Please contact [email protected] with questions. Read more

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It is customary at Budokan that all athletes and club officials representing NSW at the Nationals bepresented to the club prior to the event and receive a small token from the club as a contributiontoward their expenses (or that of their parents). Read more

We are coming up to just 1 week away from the Nationals and our guys have had a fantastic preparation so far.  Although not NSW State Coaches, Kerrye, Nathan and I will be at the Nationals providing the best possible support to our guys. Read more

Judo Canada has officially inform all Provincial and Territorial Judo Associations that, effective July 1, 2026, Judo Canada will transition its membership management database from Trackie to Dokume. In addition, the current Shiai tournament management system will progressively be replaced by Dokume’s integrated tournament management software. This transition represents an important modernization initiative aimed at improving the management experience for Provincial Associations, clubs, m... Read more

The NextGen Academy of Judo Canada, in collaboration with the Gender Equity Committee, is proud to announce the launch of a new project aimed at supporting women’s development within the NextGen Academy. As part of the NextGen Academy training camp, which will take place from August 17 to 22, 12 female athletes will be selected to receive free accommodation in residence. They will also be supervised throughout the week by a female coach. Eligibility Criteria Participants must: ... Read more

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Join us for a clinic on Kumi Kata and Attack Patterns with Sensei Nabil Elalem on June 7th from 1 pm to 3 pm Registration is on SmoothComp at https://usjf.smoothcomp.com/en/event/32377 Read more

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Date: Sunday September 20, 2026 Time: Registration: 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm, Test: 1:00 pm Location: IPPON Martial Arts, 16735 Ridge Road, Northville, MI 48168 Registration Fee: $20 All candidates must submit all their paperwork by July 23, 2026. Submit paperwork to Frances Glaze, Chair of Konan Board of Examiners, and Tom Sheehan, Chair of Konan […] Read more

Date: Saturday August 23, 2026 Time: Registration: 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm, Clinic: 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Location: IPPON Martial Arts, 16735 Ridge Road, Northville, MI 48168 Registration Fee: $20 All candidates must submit all their paperwork by July 23, 2026. Submit paperwork to Frances Glaze, Chair of Konan Board of Examiners, and Tom Sheehan, […] Read more

For several years, WJA membership fees have remained unchanged. However, the cost of delivering high-quality judo across Wales has continued to rise in recent years, including costs associated with member services, safeguarding, governance, workforce support, development, and administration. Despite these increases, our updated fees remain below the equivalent rates of the British Judo Association, while also bringing us more closely in line with the other home nation judo bodies. ... Read more

Congratulations to everyone who competed and won points and wins at the Munster Closed 2026! You can now find the full list HERE The post Points & Wins from the Munster Closed 2026 first appeared on Irish Judo Association . Read more

After finding out the fantastic news that our very own Sean McRory has been added to the GB Deaf Squad, with a view to pushing forward to the Deaf Olympics, Commercial Manager Mark Donald, caught up with Sean to ask him all about the announcement. It was also a fantastic opportunity to find out more about Sean, his background and the motivation that drives him forward. Interview below… 1. Tell us how you found out about your selection I found out about my selection through a phone ca... Read more

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Congratulations to everyone who competed and won points and wins at the recent Leinster Closed Championships 2026! You can now find the full list HERE The post Points & Wins from the Leinster Closed Championships 2026 first appeared on Irish Judo Association . Read more

Points and Wins are now here from this weekend’s Mini / Maxi Mon, Kyu & Dan Grades Competition held by the NIJF. The competition was held on the 10th of May, 2026 at the Foyle Arena in Derry.   THE FOLLOWING DAN GRADES WON POINTS Daniel McGibbon – 2nd Dan – Renbukan Judo Club – 10 Points Dylan Bond – 1st Dan – Simply Judo – 20 Points Ivan Petkov – 1st Dan – Renbukan Judo Club – 20 Points THE FOLLOWING HAD AT LEAST 2 WINS Cormac Kernaghan – 2nd Kyu – Renbukan Judo Club Adam Greer – 3rd Kyu – S... Read more

Munster Closed 2026 – Results Congratulations to all the judoka who competed at the Munster Closed 10th May 2026 at Coláiste Chríost Rí in Cork last weekend. The Munster Judo Council have issued the results which are available below – well done everyone! Results – Munster Closed 2026 The post Munster Closed 2026 – Results first appeared on Irish Judo Association . Read more

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Welsh Judo is proud to support Clean Sport Week (taking place from 11–17 May 2026), the annual awareness campaign led by UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) that champions fair play, integrity and drug-free sport. This year’s theme, ‘Built not bought. 100% me.’, celebrates athletes who achieve true, lasting success through hard work, talent and commitment. It sends a clear message: champions compete clean and don’t take shortcuts. Clean Sport Week 2026 comes at a critical time. There is growing concern ac... Read more

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Congratulations to the Irish Judokas who took part in the Swiss Ranking Tournament in St. Gallen on April 25th 2026 and won points towards their next grade: Dan grades: Dylan Murphy – 2nd Dan – The Senshin Judo Team – 40 Points Kirsten Millar – 2nd Dan – Simply Judo – 20 Points Alex Gibb – 1st Dan – Kyokan Judo Club – 10 Points Andrew Cretu – 1st Dan – Portmarnock Judo Club – 10 Points Timothy Oland – 1st Dan – Kyokan Judo Club – 10 Points Kyu grades: Fionn Branagan – 1st Kyu – The Senshin Ju... Read more

Pembee supports judo clubs with a free trial and same-day setup for judo clubs trying Read more The post Pembee partners with Koka Kids in year-long sponsorship to support grassroots judo appeared first on Judo Books by Koka Kids . Read more

Leinster Closed Championships – Closing Date 5th May 2026 To all Leinster Judo Clubs, a reminder that the close date for the Leinster Closed Championships is Midnight on the 5th May 2026. Get your entries in over the Bank Holiday weekend – all details available below! Leinster Closed Championships – Irish Judo Association Entry Link Here Location 📍 Phibblestown Community Centre, Phibblestown Rd, Dublin 15, D15 XT85 🧾Organiser Hosted by: Leinster Judo Council 🕑Schedule TIME: Competition starts... Read more

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This is an opportunity to lead and shape the future of performance judo in Wales. We’re looking for an ambitious and values-driven leader to take on the role of Head of Performance and Pathway at the Welsh Judo Association. This is a senior and strategic role that goes beyond coaching — you’ll be responsible for shaping the vision, culture and systems that underpin sustainable success, while ensuring athlete wellbeing remains at the heart of everything we do. Working closely with th... Read more

Smoothcomp Registration in Now Open 2026 USJF Summer Nationals is coming to San Francisco!  July 11-12,2026 at City College of San Francisco.  Open to members with current membership in either USJF, USA Judo or USJA.  This tournament will also be a USA Judo point event. Register here with Smoothcomp. Read more

Fantastic turnout for the first Y&H Area refereeing course in over 10 years! A huge thank you to Dave Francis for coming along to support and assess the tutors as they progress to becoming fully qualified referee examiners. Dave Dunsford passed his assessment for delivering a referee course and is now able to move onto the assessing practical exams next on his road to becoming a referee assessor.  Well done to all candidates who attended and passed their theory exam. The next step is to conta... Read more

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Another ladies randori session goes by, thourally enjoyed by the small but hard working group. Keep an eye on the calendar for further sessions, they will be held around clubs in the area. Want to host one? Drop us a message.   Read more

As a judo coach, one of the biggest wins is giving kids something they can Read more The post Mon Grade Syllabus Look Inside: Red Belt Book appeared first on Judo Books by Koka Kids . Read more

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The Welsh Judo Association (WJA) is delighted to announce its coaching team for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, as preparations enter a pivotal phase ahead of the games. Natalie Powell will lead Wales’ Commonwealth Games programme in a dual Performance Coach and Team Manager role, supported by newly appointed Performance Support, Darren Warner. “In the short time Natalie has been in post, her passion and commitment towards creating a positive environment for our athletes has bee... Read more

  Orders are open! Orders are now open for the British Judo Mon Grade Syllabus Read more The post The Mon Grade Syllabus books are going to print — here’s how to order for your club appeared first on Judo Books by Koka Kids . Read more

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The 2026 Parent Survey paints an incredibly encouraging picture of judo for young people across Northern Ireland. Parents consistently highlighted excellent coaching , strong club culture , and high standards of safety and safeguarding as the most valued parts of their children’s experience. Many families described judo as a sport that builds confidence , discipline , fitness , and a real sense of belonging . A major positive insight is the level of long‑term commitment from families... Read more

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The United States Judo Federation and 50th State Judo Association mourns the passing of Ray Imada, a respected leader, mentor, and lifelong contributor to the art and community of judo in Hawaii. Ray devoted his life to the growth and promotion of judo, leaving a lasting imprint on the sport and all who practiced it. […] Read more

This is an exciting opportunity to join a values-driven and ambitious National Governing Body and play a key role in shaping how Welsh Judo tells its story. We are looking for a creative and motivated individual to take up the role of Social Media and Content Creation Intern at Welsh Judo. You will work alongside a small, dedicated team to deliver engaging digital content, support major campaigns, and help showcase the impact of judo across Wales. This role offers hands-on expe... Read more

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Mon Grade Books – Now in Paperback I’ve been sitting on this news for a Read more The post The British Judo Mon Grade Syllabus — Now in Paperback appeared first on Judo Books by Koka Kids . Read more

Smooth Comp Link This event is open to all USJF, USJA and USA Judo members. Read more

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Masataka Hirayama passed away quietly February 23, 2026 at 85 years old. He was a long time Judoka of Hawaiian Judo. He began Judo in the 1950s on the island of Hawai’i (Big Island) and paralleled the beginnings of what is now USJF. From the 1970s to the 1990s he did outreach and committee work […] Read more

Hi! Recently, I’ve been writing a mini-series on retention, on why judoka drop out. It’s Read more The post Interview: Vince Skillcorn on Why Judoka Drop Out and What to do Differently appeared first on Judo Books by Koka Kids . Read more

On May 2, 2015, I wrote a blog post called "A dream comes true...", which was all about the impending opening of what would eventually become KL Judo Centre. Time flies when you're having fun. Fast forward 11 years and now, we're about to upgrade the club in a big way. When we first started, we ran the class from someone else's dojo in Cheras. Later, we moved into a martial arts gym in Damansara Perdana. We bought our own roll-out mats when we moved to Bangsar, where we rented some space from... Read more

Date: March 21st, 2026 Location: Ronaldo Candido Academy, 22002 Novi Rd, Novi, MI 48375 We are hosting an open practice for Judo clubs from all over to come together. This assembly is a space to share Judo techniques, knowledge, and foster mutual welfare and benefit for all participants. Time: 11 am to 1 pm Waiver: […] Read more

The 4Skills Framework – Making Progress Visible This is part 3 of a 3 part-mini Read more The post A Progression System for Kids’ Judo appeared first on Judo Books by Koka Kids . Read more

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Florida Judo Leader, Rokudan, Mentor, and Builder of Community, Read more

Northern Ireland Judo Welcomes Dan Powell and other guests, for a Full Day of Training, Learning and Collaboration The NIJF brought its community together for a packed day of development as players, coaches and parents gathered for a programme led by World Champion Dan Powell , supported by  Frances , and Leigh from White Ribbon NI . The event, hosted by Kookateki Judo Club , blended on‑the‑mat training with essential off‑the‑mat learning, creating a powerful step forward for judo ac... Read more