Earlier this month, two groups from our Scottish judo community embarked on a transformative journey to Japan, the birthplace of judo. The trip brought together coaches from the Kaizen Academy and young judoka from our Talent Development Squad, both gaining valuable insights into the culture of Japanese judo.
We’ve been running the Kaizen Academy for about two to three years, offering a variety of CPD opportunities for our coaches,” Paul McGuinness, JudoScotland Coaching and Volunteering Manager explained. “Gary (Edwards) approached us as he was planning to take members of the talent development squad to Japan and we thought it would be great to combine both groups for the trip. It was also really helpful having Tony (Penfold, JudoScotland’s Head of Development) who was great for the group.”
Talent Development Manager Gary Edwards reached out to Yoko Tanabe, a six-time All Japan Champion and double Olympic medallist, who was instrumental in helping shape the programme, which included visits to three prestigious high schools—Sho Toku, Seisoku Gakun, and Shukutoku—alongside a session at Tokai University, where the team had the honour of training with Mr Nakanishi, the 1983 World Champion. Jack MacLeod, from the Talent Development Squad, said “We covered the fundamentals of judo which was helpful, it was a really good session and everyone in the group was happy with it.” The group also visited the home of judo, the Kodokan established by Jigoro Kano where he developed the sport.
The itinerary was packed with opportunities. The groups attended local competitions, including high school and police championships, and the two groups even joined in evening randori sessions at the Kodokan—a bold chance to test their skills in Japan’s most renowned dojo. In between sessions, they also explored Japan’s cultural sites, from historic temples to local attractions and even managed to squeeze in a theme park visit.
Throughout the week, each group member learned nuggets of information they’re eager to share back home. Capturing video clips to bring home that delve into everything from technical tips to training philosophies, offering a unique insight into how Japanese judoka approach their sport both on and off the mat.
The trip also offered surprising encounters with some of the world’s most celebrated judoka, as Paul recalls the group bumping into the world’s most successful judo player as the group made their way to the shops: “It was surreal the people you’d see, the first night we just went on a walk and just happened to see Ryoko Tani. Then the next day the younger judoka were training alongside the recently crowned junior World Champion.”
As the group made their way back to Scotland, they returned with a deeper connection to judo, inspired by training alongside elite athletes and engaging with local coaches. Looking to the future, this special trip has laid the groundwork for ongoing collaboration and with plans already in place for a return visit, JudoScotland is excited to build on this foundation