Judoka numbers improving
Membership of the British Judo Association has been hit hard over the period we haven’t been able to train and compete. While this isn’t a surprise, it does make for hard reading. Happily numbers have now returned to pre-covid levels.
Volunteers
We have seen a number of our experienced officials step away from being actively involved with events. Some of those have decades of experience and we would of course like to thank them for all their hard work and commitment to the area during their many years volunteering to their time to support our events.
In February we made a presentation to Janet Fox who has decided now is the right time to step away from running the Rothwell club. Thankyou Janet for your dedication over the years.
We remember Roy Francis who passed away in the autumn this year. Roy had been involved in area judo across many roles (inc. reffing, examining, coaching, area committee) since the 1950s. Roy was recognised with an award from the BJA at the annual ceremony.
Notable moments
There have been plenty of personal achievements by local Judoka through the last 12 months. Numerous dan grades won at our gradings, both competitive and technical.
Medals won, for some at their first competition. Gaining coaching qualifications, even simply getting back to training after the Covid break will have been hard for some. Well done all.
Our first senior & masters event was a great success, with a lot of very positive feedback. Look out for the rematch in spring 2023!
Of course there are a few stand out moments from the last year:
• 2020 Paralympic champion Chris Hunt Skelly was presented with an MBE for his services to Judo by Prince Charles
• Many will remember some lovely Judo shown by Lachlan Moorhead to take Commonwealth gold
• John Burkill (One of our long serving area volunteers) achieved the rank of 6th dan. A number of people travelled to see the surprise presentation at an area grading
• Neil Fletcher was re-elected to the board of the BJA.
Looking forward
Work continues behind the scenes to organise Judo activities and events. If any Y & H Judoka would like to get involved either in an official capacity or something a bit more informal at events, get in touch. We will be able to find a role for you!
We want to hear from clubs, coaches, parents, players in the area. We want to work with you, let us know what you want us to continue doing and what we can do better.