News

JudoScotland has taken an important step forward in strengthening its leadership and organisational effectiveness with the evolution of its governance structure, a move that reflects the Board’s innovative and forward-thinking approach to supporting the future of Scottish sport. 

The organisation is introducing a new Board portfolio model, designed to ensure each Director’s skills, experience, and expertise are directly aligned with JudoScotland’s strategic priorities. This targeted structure will help drive excellence across every area of the organisation while supporting clearer decision making and more efficient leadership. 

This development reinforces JudoScotland’s ongoing commitment to delivering Judo For All, a strategy focused on creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to realise their potential through judo. By strengthening governance now, the organisation is building the foundations needed to support a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable future for the sport. 

The project has been led by JudoScotland Vice Chair, Sandy Hodge, who highlighted the significance of this structural evolution: 

“This evolution of our governance model is essential to the successful realisation of our Judo For All strategy. By ensuring our Directors’ expertise is directly connected to key areas of the organisation, we are building a stronger, more effective Board, one that is fully equipped to support the future of judo in Scotland.” 

As part of the new model, each portfolio will be supported by two Board members, ensuring continuity, shared learning, and smooth transitions over time, a positive example of succession planning and longterm resilience in action. 

The portfolios will reflect the organisation’s core areas of focus, covering: 

• Corporate Excellence 

• Membership 

• Athlete Success 

• Impact on Scottish Society 

This structure not only strengthens Board alignment with strategic priorities but also reinforces JudoScotland’s role as a progressive, responsible, and well governed Scottish sports Governing body setting a strong example for leadership across the sector. 

Details on which Board members have been appointed to each area, can be found here. 

Are you ready to help shape the future of Scottish Judo? We’re seeking a passionate full-time Performance Pathway Coach to enhance our team at JudoScotland. This isn’t just another coaching role, this is your opportunity to lead, inspire, and elevate the next generation of Scottish judoka, from Pre-Cadet to Senior levels, guiding them toward success on the world stage. This role is initially a 12‑month fixed‑term position, with the possibility of extension beyond that period.

About the Role

As Performance Pathway Coach, you’ll:

• Coach and support judoka across all stages of our performance pathway

• Deliver inspiring, high-quality training sessions and workshops

• Work with athletes to set goals and track progress

• Build strong links with clubs and personal coaches

• Help organise camps, events and international opportunities

• Promote athlete wellbeing and support smooth transitions across the pathway

If you’re passionate about performance coaching and want to help shape the future of Scottish judo, this could be the role for you.

Download the application pack to find out more and apply.

JudoScotland is delighted to announce that The Gathering will return to the Emirates Arena, Glasgow, on 31 October and 1 November 2026, bringing together the Scottish judo community for a truly exceptional weekend of judo.  

The Gathering is more than a CPD weekend; it’s a celebration of judo. It’s a chance for our community to connect, learn from one another, and be part of something bigger. This year, we’re thrilled to welcome two Georgian greats, judoka who have helped shape the modern era of international judo. 

With the British Veterans Championship taking place in Paisley just down the road that same weekend, we’re excited to once again make the greater Glasgow area a destination for Judo. 

Tato Grigalashvili — Triple World Champion, Olympic Medallist 

Tato Grigalashvili has become one of the defining competitors of the –81kg category. Known for his dynamic gripping, powerful throwing style, and exceptional technical clarity, he has dominated the world stage with: 

• Three consecutive World Championship titles  

• Multiple European gold medals 

• Olympic silver at Paris 2024 

• A reputation as one of the most complete judoka in the sport today 

Tato made a huge impact at The Gathering 2025, with attendees praising his detaildriven delivery and the time he dedicated to every individual on the mat. Feedback included: 

“His attention to detail, his enthusiasm and the amount of time he gave to everybody!” 

“Main takeaway was the Georgian grip, taught me some things I had been wondering about and unable to find online, was very thorough in his explanations and genuinely cared that we learnt from him.” 

“The detail in his demonstrations was superb. He gave a brilliant insight into the Georgian style of Judo through the techniques he demonstrated.” 

We are thrilled to welcome him back. 

Lasha Shavdatuashvili — Triple Olympic Medallist, World Champion 

A true legend of the sport, Lasha Shavdatuashvili is one of Georgia’s most decorated judoka. With medals at three Olympic Games (gold in 2012, bronze in 2016, silver in 2020) and a World Championship title in 2021, Lasha’s career reflects extraordinary longevity, adaptability, and tactical intelligence. 

Competing across both –66kg and –73kg categories, he remains one of the most respected and influential athletes on the world stage. His appearance at The Gathering 2026 offers Scottish judoka a rare opportunity to learn from a true master. 

We’re inviting all creative minds to design the official medal for The Scottish National Closed Championship 2026. This is your chance to leave a lasting mark on one of Scotland’s biggest judo events! 

Competition Details 

Theme: 

• Scottish identity meets the spirit of judo. 

Requirements:  

• Must include the event name: The Scottish National Closed Championship 

• Incorporate elements of Scotland (e.g., thistle, saltire, unicorn, tartan pattern) and judo symbolism. 

• Design suitable for gold, silver, and bronze variations. 

Format:  

• Submit a digital design (JPEG/PNG) or a hand-drawn sketch (photo/scan). 

• Deadline: Thursday, 30th April 2026. 

• Submit to: info@judoscotland.com with subject line: Medal Design Competition. 

• Please note: The winning design may need minor adjustments to ensure it works effectively as a medal. 

Prize 

• Winner’s design will be featured on all 2026 The Scottish National Closed Championship medals. 

• Plus a JudoScotland goodie bag. 

As momentum continues to build ahead of Glasgow 2026 this summer, we want to embrace the theme of #GiveToGain this International Women’s Day and celebrate the incredible Scottish female judo medallists from Commonwealth Games past. These individuals continue to break down barriers, inspire change, and understand first-hand the power of investing in and supporting future generations of female judoka in Scotland.   

After being included in the 1986 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh as a demonstration sport, judo has proudly featured in four Commonwealth Games over the decades with Team Scotland securing medal success at each one.  At every stage of that journey, Scotland’s female judoka have not only delivered podium performances but helped build a stronger pathway for the young women now coming through the sport. 

Auckland 1990 

The 1990 Games in Auckland marked a historic milestone as the first Commonwealth Games to feature judo and our female judoka made an immediate impact. Loretta Doyle led the way with a gold medal in the -56kg category. With World and European Champion titles already in hand, Loretta’s influence has continued far beyond her competitive career. Serving as a regular commentator for the EJU and IJF Media teams and holding senior leadership roles across the Paris 2024 Olympics, and the Birmingham 2022 and Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games environments, she continues to raise the visibility of the sport. 

Scotland’s medal success was further strengthened by Claire Shiach, who secured silver in the -52kg division and she has since become a key figure in athlete development. Recently recognised as JudoScotland’s Performance Pathway Coach of the Year for her coaching work at Pro Judo, Claire now plays a direct role in nurturing young Scottish talent and strengthening the pathway for aspiring female athletes. Donna Robertson added bronze in the -48kg category, completing a remarkable debut for Scottish women in Commonwealth judo and setting the standard for generations to follow.  

Manchester 2002

At the Manchester 2002 Commonwealth Games, Scotland’s female judoka delivered another impressive medal haul, showcasing depth across the weight categories. Jenni Brien secured silver in the -57kg division, while Sarah Clark added another silver in the -63kg category. Sarah Clark has since continued to shape the sport off the mat as CEO of Edinburgh Judo Club, previously serving on the JudoScotland Board and working as an athlete mentor with the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust. Through these roles, she has directly supported and guided the next generation of female judoka, ensuring that success on the mat manifests into opportunity off it. 

Bronze medals followed across the programme: Stephanie Hart in the +78kg category, Fiona Robertson in the -48kg division, Karen Cusack in the -52kg class, and Amanda Costello in the -70kg category. Together, their performances in Manchester marked another significant chapter in the growing legacy of Scottish judoka in the Commonwealth.  

Glasgow 2014

The Glasgow Games will forever be remembered within Scotland’s judo community as a moment in time of judo excellence, with 13 of a possible 14 medals secured, with all seven of the female judoka stepping onto a podium.   

Sarah Clark claimed gold in the -63kg category, completing a remarkable journey by upgrading the silver she had won 12 years earlier. Golden sisters Kimberley (-48kg) and Louise (-52kg) Renicks shared an impactful medal achievement that now sits alongside their work giving back to the sport through their club, Kanokwai Judo Club in their hometown, nurturing the next generation of judoka. Sarah Adlington added another gold in the +78kg division, underlining Scotland’s strength across the weight categories.  

The medal momentum continued with Stephanie Inglis taking silver in the -57kg, while Connie Ramsay earned bronze in the same division. Sally Conway secured bronze in the -70kg category, adding to a distinguished career that included representing Team GB at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympic Games, where she claimed an Olympic bronze. Now a Head Coach with Sweden, Sally continues to influence the sport at international level, a fitting reflection of how Scotland’s female medalists continue to shape and elevate the pathway for young athletes long after their own Games have finished. 

Birmingham 2022

At the most recent Games in Birmingham in 2022, Sarah Adlington made history by securing her second gold medal, becoming the most decorated Scottish Commonwealth judoka ever. Her sustained success provides a visible role model for young female judoka in Scotland, showcasing what is possible through dedication and resilience.

Bronze medals from Malin Wilson in the -57kg division and Rachel Tytler in the -78kg category ensured Scotland’s presence across the podium once again. Rachel now extends her impact beyond competition, recently joining Great Athletes a social enterprise that brings elite sportspeople into primary schools to inspire young people.

Across every Games, our female judoka have done more than win medals, they have strengthened performance pathways, taken on leadership roles, mentored young athletes and invested their time and expertise back into the sport.

As we look ahead to Glasgow 2026 this summer, their legacy reminds us that success is not only measured on the podium or medals brought home, but in the opportunities created for the future generations of females in our sport.

A brief update from the JudoScotland Chair Marc Preston on activity in February. 

On 7th – 8th February I had the pleasure of taking my wife, Karen, to the Paris Grand Slam Judo Tournament. Due to some travel disruption, we made it just in time to watch the Saturday evening finals and what a moment it was. It was fantastic to see fellow Brit, Benjamin Levy beat the reigning World Champion on his way to claiming bronze in the -73kg category. A magnificent result where he beat some absolute top players on his way to his medal. Well done Ben!

I would like to thank Dr Lisa Allan, Secretary General at the International Judo Federation in Budapest, for her hospitality, and I am looking forward to catching up with her later in March.

On 10th February I flew down to London for our British Judo Board of Directors Meeting, where I presented Judith’s Home Nations report.

Then, on 14th February, we had our annual Scottish All Stars Championship. I went along to watch, and the general feeling was that it was very well organised. It is great to see young judoka enjoying themselves and having fun. And I had the chance to catch up with JudoScotland’s Head of Development, Tony Penfold.

Moving on to the 18th February, as Chair of JudoScotland, I was invited to the Emperor of Japan’s birthday celebrations which were being hosted at Edinburgh Academy by Mr Katsutoshi Takeda, the Consul General of Japan in Scotland. Also invited along to represent JudoScotland were our Honorary Vice-Presidents Rick Kenney and Jim Feenan. It was a very pleasant couple of hours and the sushi was magnificent!

On a personal basis, I had to update my coaching First Aid Credentials. And, on 22nd February I made my way along to the course at Titan Judo Club at Clydebank. A wonderful facility with the full-time tatami, café and weights area. I personally felt it was an excellent set-up, conducive to producing a good judo environment and would like to thank the club for hosting the event.

Due to the substantial workload that the organisation presently has, we had to add an extra online JudoScotland Board meeting on 24th February. I’d like to thank the Directors for giving up their valuable time. This was much appreciated.

March is already shaping up to be another busy month. And if any of you are coming along to the Grand Prix Event on 14th March – Hibari Kan – and would like a chat. I’ll be there!

Marc Preston, 7th Dan 

Following a successful recruitment process, JudoScotland is delighted to announce the appointment of Gordon Allan as the new National Technical Official Coordinator. 

The National Technical Official Coordinator (NTOC) supports, develops and recruits volunteer officials by delivering the officiating pathway and working closely with staff and volunteer groups to ensure a strong, well‑supported workforce for JudoScotland events. The NTCO role will work alongside JudoScotland’s Events and Coaching & Volunteering Managers as a member of the Event Workforce Working Group to continue to support the development of judo events in Scotland. 

Gordon’s journey in judo began as a parent when his daughter Katherine took up the sport aged seven. After feeling inspired by her progress, Gordon stepped onto the mat himself aged 52, reaching 4th Kyu and developing a lasting connection with the sport. While his daughter moved onto other sports, Gordon continued his involvement in judo through volunteering as a Technical Official.  

Gordon began officiating in 2016 after being encouraged to help at club rumbles, starting as a Timekeeper and since progressing to Senior Recorder. With over a decade of experience as a Technical Official, Gordon shared what he enjoys most about being involved in judo: 

“I enjoy catching up with other officials at events and some have become good friends of mine. It’s also my time away from the normal daily/weekly routine where I can switch off from work.” 

Gordon has volunteered at events of all levels, from local club competitions to the European Veteran Championships in Glasgow. His vast experience has given him a strong understanding of the pressures and responsibilities Technical Officials face, as well as the teamwork and professionalism required to deliver successful events, skills he believes will be invaluable in his newly appointed role: 

“I’ve worked with all sorts of people, so I understand the worries and frustrations that people may have, as I have probably had the same experiences over the years, so hopefully I will be able to help them through these concerns.” 

Looking ahead, Gordon is committed to creating a supportive community of Technical Officials in Scotland and hopes that this community can extend beyond the table: 

“I would like to have regular training events for both new and current officials, ensuring we have experienced people helping mentor new team members. I would like to have more social events, either face to face where possible or online.  

“I want to support organising pre-event briefings to ensure everyone is comfortable with what is happening at the event, and after event de-briefings to deal with any concerns or anything they feel that they need further training on.”  

JudoScotland cannot wait to see what Gordon brings to this new role and look forward to the continued growth and development of the Technical Official workforce under his leadership.  

Are you looking to take the next step in your communications career? JudoScotland is seeking a creative and enthusiastic Communications Officer to helpraise the profile of judo across Scotland as we move toward Glasgow 2026 and beyond. With over 9,000 members and more than 200 clubs, our organisation is growing, and in this role, you’ll play a key part in producing engaging content, supporting events and campaigns, and helping bring our vision of‘Judo For All’ to life.

As part of the Business Support Team, working through the Communications and Marketing Manager, you will deliver coordinated communications for our membership and wider stakeholders. You’ll collaborate closely with our Business Delivery and Performance Development Teams to support initiatives, projects and events before, during and after delivery. This includes athlete training sessions, event promotion, volunteer recruitment and a wide range of development activities.

You will play an active role in shaping the organisation’s communications and will have the opportunity to develop your skills in CMS management, email marketing, content creation and social media strategy.

If you’re passionate about digital storytelling, social media and working as part of a dynamic team, we’d love to hear from you.

Download or view the Application Pack below for more information: 

Are you looking to develop and expand your coaching career?

JudoScotland is seeking Performance Pathway Support Coaches to help deliver our Performance Programme and support the next generation of Scottish judoka.

In this role, you will deliver high‑quality technical sessions to identified pathway athletes, working in alignment with the JudoScotland Player Development Framework. As part of our coaching pool, you’ll contribute to scheduled JudoScotland sessions and provide hands‑on support to athletes at training camps and competitions, both domestically and internationally, under the guidance of the Head of Performance.

We are looking to appoint coaches in line with our ambition to expand our programme including delivery within our Regional Performance Hubs located in Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact within the performance pathway and to our next generation of performance judoka.

Download or view the Application Pack below for more information: 

A brief update from the JudoScotland Chair Marc Preston on activity in January. 

And so, we’re into another year.

It started off on 9th January with a meeting involving Judith and myself plus our cohorts from the Judo Home Nations (Wales and Northern Ireland). We discussed how we can work more collaboratively going forward, with a view to becoming stronger as a collective. Personally, I think it’s very important that the Home Nations work together and that we build a strong relationship as we share many similar experiences and challenges.

On 14th January, Judith, Sandy and I visited the University of Stirling to meet with their Director of Sport, Cathy Gallagher. Having brought the Performance Programme in-house to JudoScotland, we have restarted work on a feasibility study for a national facility and will be looking at a number of options. I thoroughly enjoyed our meeting with Cathy who, as always, was super enthusiastic and positive.

Moving on we had another magnificent Scottish Open tournament on 17th and 18th January at Inverclyde – with over 485 competitors from 143 clubs across 14 countries. I’m always delighted to attend this event, and it was fantastic to catch up with so many players from the present and the past, including 19 Commonwealth Games medallists from 1990 to 2022!

Following the tournament, it was wonderful to see Alberto and the team host an international training camp. It’s always a good way to attract foreign interest where they can get a tournament and a top-class training session afterwards.

On 20th January I and Judith met up for lunch with Doc McKelvey, CEO of Scottish Gymnastics and Brian Ewing, their Chair. I imagine that this will become a more regular occurrence as both of our organisations experience very similar issues. We spent time swapping ideas/suggestions on how best to tackle them and not only was it a very productive couple of hours, it was exceptionally good fun with many funny stories!

On 27th January we had an online team meeting with British Judo and BJC. We were jointly looking at ways to work together for the benefit of judo. I came away from the meeting thinking that we’re actually very much aligned and I’m looking forward to the next opportunity to meet up.

In the evening, we had a JudoScotland Board meeting. It is vitally important that JS as an organisation doesn’t rely on any one individual and is able to operate if someone drops out and so, I had previously decided that it would be a good idea that our Vice Chair, Sandy Hodge lead the session. Sandy did an excellent job in chairing and facilitating the meeting.

And finally, for this month, it would be remiss of me if I didn’t mention that 3 Trainee Senior Examiners have now all been ratified as full BJA Senior Examiners. They have been working extremely hard over the last few years to get to this standard, and they are:-

• Colin Dunlop: 4th Dan, Carnegie Judo Club
• Gavin McNeill, 5th Dan, Edinburgh Judo
• Mark McCraw, 5th Dan, Edinburgh Judo

On a personal level, I have known Mark for many years and used to compete with him when we were junior. He was always a very strong competitor and tough to fight!

As 2026 takes shape, we’ve got the Commonwealth Games to look forward to in Glasgow. Let’s make 2026 even better than 2025!

Marc Preston, 7th Dan