News

As the year comes to a close, we want to thank our amazing judo family for making 2024 such a fantastic year. From athletes and coaches to referees, volunteers, and supporters, your dedication and passion have been truly inspiring. As we reflect on an amazing year, we’re excited to share some of the standout moments that made 2024 so special!

We look forward to sharing more incredible moments on and off the tatami in 2025!

Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year!

Leah Baillie, a dedicated member of Just Judo Clubs in Bonnyrigg, has been honoured as JudoScotland’s Young Technical Official of the Year. This prestigious award is part of the JudoScotland Coaching and Volunteering Awards, a national initiative that recognises the hard work and commitment of judo’s volunteers across Scotland. 

The Young Technical Official of the Year Award honours an individual aged 25 or under who has made an outstanding impact in their role, significantly enhancing the competition structure and creating exceptional opportunities and experiences within judo. 

Leah has made a remarkable impression within the JudoScotland Referee and Official workforce. Starting as a volunteer timekeeper at club events. She has steadily progressed in her officiating journey, contributing to numerous JudoScotland events. Since completing her contest recorder course in May, Leah has shown exceptional dedication to her development as a technical official. She is now focused on advancing her journey toward achieving her goal of becoming a senior recorder.  

Martin Baillie, Leah’s dad, shared, “We are really pleased for Leah, she has put a lot of work in to get where she is and we are very happy for her” 

David Somerville, Club Coach at Just Judo, remarked, “Volunteers are the back bone of our sport, young volunteers are tomorrows backbone of our sport” 

Leah Baillie expressed her gratitude, saying, “I’m very pleased to receive this award as I love playing my part in the judo community as a contest reorder and time keeper” 

Sam Ingram of JudoScotland added, “ Leah consistently goes above and beyond, actively engaging in every opportunity to support Judo events and her own development.  She’s a brilliant example of the positive impact a young person can have in sport.” 

Leah was presented her award at her club in Bonnyrigg by JudoScotland Club Support Officer Sam Ingram. 

Entering its fourth year, our Kaizen Academy continues to embody the Japanese philosophy of continual learning. JudoScotland is thrilled to present another exciting calendar packed with incredible learning opportunities for 2025! 

Successful applicants will gain access to The Gathering, Blueprint sessions, Kata courses, Inclusive Practice courses, Contest Rules, exclusive online sessions, and a private group session with Neil Adams MBE and Assistant High-Performance Coach Takafumi Kitahara. 

How to Get Involved 

JudoScotland invites Level 1 or 2 coaches to join a professional development programme designed to enhance coaching skills through a series of workshops with expert coach developers. Participation requires club support, and acceptance is based on an application process. Preference will be given to clubs that: 

• Prioritise workforce development. 

• Show a strong commitment to personal and professional growth. 

• Increasing participation & pathway development opportunities. 

The two year programme requires a £250 annual investment from clubs or coaches. The remaining cost of the programme (circa £2,000) will be subsidised by JudoScotland as part of our strategic commitment to workforce development  

For more information or to apply, contact Paul McGuinness at 07949 888 278 or email PaulMcguinness@judoscotland.com.

Invergordon Judo Club has been celebrated as Club of the Year at the prestigious JudoScotland Coaching and Volunteering Awards. This accolade is part of a national initiative that celebrates the dedication and hard work of coaches and volunteers who drive the growth and success of judo across Scotland.

The Club of the Year Award highlights clubs that make a significant positive impact through their delivery, organisation, and development of judo. It also honours their commitment to promoting the core values of the sport and JudoScotland.

Invergordon Judo Club has earned this recognition as a true community hub. The club goes above and beyond to support its members, fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment that balances fun with disciplined training. Praised by parents and players alike, the coaches are known for their patience, engagement, and ability to make training enjoyable for all ages.

The club has grown substantially in recent years, thanks to the passion and dedication of its coaching team and committee. They actively engage with the wider community through initiatives such as hosting free annual festivals and conducting demonstrations. Their inclusive approach and commitment to development make them a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Lucas Jolly, a young coach helper at the club, shared his experience: “I started in the Kai’s at the club when I was 5 and moved up the belts, when I was 8 I moved up to the Mons and did some festivals and competitions. I decided to take a break from doing Judo and that’s when I had the opportunity to become a coach helper with the club and have been doing that for over a year. All the coaches have supported me to take this non-competitive pathway. There’s nothing better than walking into the club on a Saturday morning and seeing so many smiley faces. Volunteering has taught me so much, and I’m grateful to learn from such amazing mentors. I’m 100% committed to staying involved with the club and look forward to an exciting future here!”

Robbie Anderson, another club member, added: “Coming to the club always makes me feel happy. The coaches are incredibly encouraging—they teach me new skills and help me understand things I might struggle with. Judo has also made a big difference in my rugby at school, improving my balance and endurance. The best part about Judo is the excitement and the respect it teaches. The Judo values are really important, and the club does a great job of helping us learn and live by them. The coaches are amazing—always supportive, kind and helpful.”

JudoScotland CEO Judith McCleary praised the club’s contributions: “It was a great honour to present Invergordon Judo club with this award. Their impact extends far beyond the dojo, serving as a vital community hub that enhances lives and strengthens their community through the power of Judo”

Invergordon Judo Club were presented their award by JudoScotland CEO Judith McCleary at their Club on Saturday 7^th of December.

Head Coach of Danderhall Judo Club, David Reilly, has been honoured as JudoScotland’s Pathway Coach of The Year at the Club’s 40th Birthday celebration. This prestigious award is part of the JudoScotland Coaching and Volunteering Awards, a national initiative that recognises the hard work and commitment of judo’s volunteers across Scotland. 

The Pathway Coach of the Year Award celebrates a coach who has supported the development of judoka and has significantly increased the Judo opportunities available and achievement levels within their community. 

David’s contributions to the development of Scottish judoka is truly remarkable. Over the past year, his athletes have achieved outstanding success, securing titles at the British, Scottish, English, Welsh, and Irish Championships. A familiar face at the Ratho training centre, David works tirelessly with pre-cadets and cadets as part of their Talent Development Sessions. 

Beyond competition success, David has championed inclusivity within the Talent Development squad, fostering an environment where all judoka feel supported and valued. His dedication to nurturing young talent and creating opportunities for growth has left a lasting impact, making him a deserving recipient of this award. 

Birmingham 2022 judoka, Kirsty Marsh, on David’s impact, added “Davie has given up so much of his time, including many weekends spent travelling the length and breadth of the country to support young athletes in tournaments. A calm presence by the side of the mat, giving sage advice whether you win or lose. Davie has a real passion for getting the best out of his players and pushes them to be their best, both on and off the mat. I look back at my time training at Danderhall with really fond memories and it’s a testament to Davie’s dedication and real care about his players that so many judoka, including many who haven’t stepped on the mat for years,, turned up to celebrate the 40th anniversary celebration. We are all extremely grateful for everything he’s done for us.” 

JudoScotland Talent Development Manager, Gary Edwards shared, “Davie is a truly deserving recipient on the JudoScotland Pathway Coach of The Year award. Throughout the past year, and in truth the last 40 years, David has been instrumental in the development of young judoka. It is a true privilege to work with Davie.” 

Danderhall Judo Club celebrated its 40th Birthday on Saturday 30th of November at Danderhall Miners Club, where David was presented with his award by JudoScotland Talent Development Manager Gary Edwards. 

We are thrilled to announce that JudoScotland has been named Scottish Governing Body of the Year at the prestigious Scottish Sports Awards 2024. Held at the Glasgow Science Centre & IMAX, this inspiring event celebrated the remarkable achievements of athletes, clubs, organisations, and community heroes across Scotland’s dynamic sporting landscape.

This recognition is a proud moment for JudoScotland and reflects our commitment to inclusivity through our Judo For All strategy. By championing adaptive judo and driving female participation, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that our sport is accessible to everyone. Our efforts to deliver engaging events and foster meaningful collaborations—including partnerships like Fab Little Bag—demonstrate how breaking down barriers to participation can transform lives and strengthen communities.

Judith McCleary, CEO of JudoScotland, shared her gratitude:
“We are incredibly honoured and grateful to be named Scottish Governing Body of the Year. This achievement is a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of our members, coaches, volunteers, and partners. We are proud of what we’ve accomplished together and are excited for the future as we continue to grow, inspire, and support the development of judo across Scotland. This is not an end point but a milestone in our journey to enhance and expand the reach of our sport.”

This award underscores the impact of JudoScotland’s efforts, it celebrates not only our growth and success but that of our member clubs. As we reflect on this achievement, we are inspired to continue using the power of sport to drive positive change, foster inclusivity, and connect communities across Scotland. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our members, clubs and partners for their continued support.

Chris Nicol, a dedicated member of Tam’s Brig Judo Club, has been recognised as JudoScotland’s Disability Coach of the Year and South Ayrshire Sports Awards Inclusion Coach of the Year. This incredible achievement highlights the outstanding work of Chris and his club in adapted judo—a commitment that has earned them the South Ayrshire award for an impressive three consecutive years.

As a Deaf-Blind Judoka, Chris is an inspirational leader, not only for the judoka he coaches at Tams Brig but also within the broader Scottish judo community. His dedication shines through his organisation and delivery of summer camps, showcasing his leadership and unwavering commitment to inclusivity.

A Level 1 Coach, Chris leads both junior and senior classes, earning praise for consistently delivering high-quality lessons. He has raised awareness of sensory impairments and demonstrated how local sports clubs can push boundaries and achieve remarkable outcomes. He also tailors sessions for children who have disabilities including team building activities that fully engage all students.

Mark McGarrie from Tams Brig said “I have trained with Chris for over three years, and he is truly one of the most technically skilled practitioners of the sport I’ve ever encountered—a walking encyclopedia of Judo, so to speak. His coaching reflects an exceptional level of detail and precision, whether he’s teaching kids or adults, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the sport and his students.”

Head Coach Charlie Strachan reflected on his own experiences in judo, noting that whilst he been involved in judo since the 1960s, the last 5 years have seen a big change since Chris joined the club. Charlie and other members have embarked on their own development, embracing learning opportunities to enable them to enhance their support provision as they strive for ‘judo for all’.

JudoScotland CEO Judith McCleary shared, “Chris is a remarkable coach and individual who’s coaching approach ensures that everyone under his guidance has a positive experience in judo.  His passion for judo and dedication to his participants shine through, and it’s clear he has made a profoundly positive impact on both his club and the wider community.”

The JudoScotland Disability Coach of the Year Award celebrates a coach working with people with a disability, as part of the nationally recognised JudoScotland Coaching and Volunteering Awards. The award is made to an individual who has applied a person-centred delivery leading to successful performance and/or sustained participation of those taking part.

A Brief update from the Chair of some key events and recent judo news from November.

Dear Members

November marked a very busy month on the JudoScotland calendar. On 1^st November I attended the British Judo Board of Directors Meeting.   I  will be the Home Nations representative for Scotland on the British Board for the next 2 years, and I am looking forward to working with Gerry Gualtieri and his team – a connection that can only strengthen our ties and move us forward.

The following day, on Saturday 2^nd November I hosted a couple of tables for the Scottish contingent at the British Judo AGM and Awards Ceremony.  It was a very well run evening, hosted by ex-internationalist Chloe Cowen, who did a fabulous job compering.

I was astounded by the number of Scottish judoka who won their categories including

Eva Ewing                          Female Cadet Athlete of the Year

Kevin Gordon                   Male Cadet Athlete of the Year

Chris Murphy                   Adaptive Male Athlete of the Year

Kirsten Taylor                   Female Para Athlete of the Year

Christopher Lambert    Official of the Year

I had the honour of being asked to present Eva with her award.  Well done to all prize-winners!

On 9^th November we had our Scottish Closed championships at Ravenscraig. Congratulations on a very well run event with excellent scheduling, and to all those who entered and challenged themselves as they contested for the coveted titles.

It was a packed weekend at Ravenscraig with National Gradings on the Sunday; I hear that it was another excellent day with a good turnout.

On 12^th November, I had a get-together with the Scottish Governing Body Chairs’ Network – an open forum that gives us the chance to chew the fat and discuss important and emerging issues.   One of the topics high on the list this time was ‘facilities’.

On Wednesday 20^th, Judith, Euan Burton, Gary Edwards and I travelled down to London for a meeting with British Judo – namely Gerry Gualtieri (Chair), Andrew Scoular (CEO) and Tim Ellis (Operations Director).  As you’re probably aware, JudoScotland is doing a review of our Performance Pathways– as is British Judo.  We absolutely believe that we will be much more successful working closely together and that we should be aligned.  I believe that JudoScotland and British Judo have forged a fantastic relationship and one that we value greatly.

It was an extremely important meeting and much was discussed.  I’m looking forward to a follow-up in Scotland early next year.

On Saturday 23^rd we hosted  Keizoku which was targeted at judoka who are looking to start stepping outside of their own club environment.  It went very well with children enjoying the activities and taking home an array of goodies in their bags!

Our Board of Directors meeting was held on 26^th November.  We changed the format to concentrate on a couple of major areas – one being on the Board Director portfolios, and roles going forward to make us a more productive organisation.  I absolutely believe this is the way forward and would like to thank our  Director, Sandy Hodge for all of the extra hours he’s put in to facilitate this.

On the  30^th  I will be leaving to go to Argentina for a big charity challenge –  attempting to summit the highest mountain in the world outside the Himalayas – Aconcagua in the Andes.  My ice axe and crampons are packed!  I’ll be getting back just before Xmas.   With this in mind, I’d just like to wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a fantastic new year.  Slainthe!

 Marc Preston

6th Dan

We recently caught up with Murray McConnell to celebrate his remarkable success at last weekend’s EJU Venray Get Together Tournament. Despite losing his sight at the age of nine, Murray has demonstrated incredible resilience and determination, excelling in his judo journey. Since joining the JudoScotland Talent Development Pathway 18 months ago, he has continued to go from strength to strength. Murray shared valuable insights into his training, his journey so far, and the exciting challenges that lie ahead.

Reflecting on the weekend’s competition, Murray said: “It feels pretty good.” However, the journey to victory wasn’t without its challenges. He explained: “Coming off the back of the Scottish Championship two weeks before, where I did fairly well, it was tricky to gear up for the next competition so soon after.”

As a committed member of the Talent Development Pathway, Murray recently had the opportunity to participate in a training camp in Belgium. Sharing his thoughts on the experience, he said: “It was my first time away with the Scotland squad. It felt good being part of the sighted squad and feeling like one of the team.”

I was curious to know what inspires Murray as a judoka, and he reflected on some of the highlights of his journey so far: “Joining the British Judo Para Potential team and travelling to Germany and France. Being part of the team and learning from the best has been so much fun—it allows me to get better and better.”

Murray added: “Being part of a squad doing so well inspires me, knowing that I’ll get there one day too.” “I would like to thank my coaches David Reilly (Danderhall), Gary Edwards (JudoScotland), and Ian Johns (British Judo) for their support.”

Of course, we couldn’t wrap up without asking about his plans for the future. With excitement, Murray revealed: “My next challenge is getting my black belt, I still have 50 points to go which I hope to get at the Scottish Open in January.”

If you would like to find out more about the adapted category at The Scottish Open 2025, click here.

JudoScotland is pleased to announce that Destination Judo is the latest club to achieve JudoMark, JudoScotland’s esteemed club accreditation scheme. This milestone reflects their commitment to excellence in governance, safeguarding, wellbeing, and club management that ensure clubs are safe, sustainable, and welcoming. 

Throughout the process, Destination Judo updated many of their policies, giving them confidence in having up-to-date documentation and reliable processes in place should they ever need them. JudoMark centres around four key pillars of club development: governance, safeguarding and wellbeing, people development and club management. All of which play a vital role in the safety, sustainability and security of clubs across Scotland. 

On completion of the process, Destination Judo said: “JudoMark provides a level of confidence to our members and parents that we take our responsibilities as a judo club seriously. It shows we are committed to good practice across areas like safeguarding, wellbeing and club management which helps our club to be a safe and welcoming environment.”. 

JudoMark will play a crucial role in strengthening Destination Judo’s partnerships with local authorities, enabling the club to introduce judo to even more children in the community. By establishing strong governance, clubs—and most importantly, their members—can feel confident and secure in the policies and procedures that support their growth and success. 

Sam Ingram, Club Support Officer, presented Destination Judo with their JudoMark award earlier in the month: “It was great to be able to present the club with their JudoMark award, we are delighted to have clubs such as Destination Judo committed to creating safe and welcoming judo environments across Scotland.  JudoMARK assures judoka, parents and partners that the club operates to a high standard, it’s a clear sign that the club is committed to continual development and improvement for its members.  Completion of JudoMARK is an opportunity for Destination Judo to show that they not only comply with but surpass British Judo’s ‘Three Step Safe’ operating standards.”  

At JudoScotland, our goal is to equip affiliated clubs with the tools and resources they need to create safe, inclusive, and welcoming environments for their members and everyone who steps onto the mat. JudoMark is a key initiative in this mission, and we are committed to continuing to offer this valuable opportunity to clubs across Scotland. Congratulations, Destination Judo, on this outstanding achievement. 

If you would like to find out how your club can get involved or simply learn more about JudoMARK click here.