News

Across Scotland and beyond, adapted judo is continuing to grow, creating new opportunities for people of all abilities to participate, develop and enjoy the sport we love.

From international competition to local community festivals, judoka are showing what can happen when barriers are removed and everyone is given the opportunity to take part. At the heart of this progress is the Judo Family: welcoming, supportive and open to all.

Scotland Shines on the International Stage

Last month the IJF World Tour Ecole Mont-Olivet Lausanne Adapted Judo Grand Slam made history being the first truly inclusive Grand slam, with Adapted judoka competing side by side by some of the sport’s biggest names, giving them the true Judo Grand Slam experience.

Two gold medals were won by Rebecca Lamb of Clyde Judo Club and Sean Allan of Castle Douglas Judo Club. Chris Murphy of Shettlestone Judo Club and Solomon Rice of Pro Judo added two silver medals, while Ross McInnes of Zenkai Judo Club and Jaden Stewart of Kanokwai Judo Club both delivered strong performances to finish fifth in their respective categories.

These achievements reflect the dedication of the athletes, coaches, families and clubs who continue to support the growth of adapted judo across Scotland.

More Than 200 People Experience Inclusive Sport in Hamilton

While Scottish athletes were making their mark internationally, the power of inclusive sport was also being showcased closer to home.

On Thursday 27 August, more than 200 people attended the Hamilton Judo Club Inclusion Development Festival at Blantyre Leisure Centre. The event brought together schools, community groups, sporting organisations and partner agencies, such as NHS, South Lanarkshire Council and Active Schools, for a day dedicated to participation, inclusion and opportunity.

The festival highlighted the positive impact judo can have in breaking down barriers, building confidence and creating meaningful sporting experiences for people of all abilities.

From first-time participants to experienced judoka, the event demonstrated how judo can provide a welcoming environment where everyone has the opportunity to belong, develop and succeed.

Developing the Pathway for Adapted Judoka

As adapted judo continues to grow, JudoScotland is committed to ensuring that judoka have opportunities to train, compete and progress at every stage of their journey.

A growing calendar of events is helping athletes gain valuable experience, build confidence and take their next steps in the sport.

This November marks another significant milestone as Adapted Judo categories will be included in the Scottish National Closed Championships for the first time, creating a new opportunity for athletes to compete on Scotland’s premier domestic stage.

For those taking their first steps beyond the club environment, JudoScotland will also host its second Adapted and Visually Impaired Festival, providing an accessible and supportive introduction to competition.

Meanwhile, the Scottish Open will once again feature Adapted and Visually Impaired categories in January, returning for a third consecutive year and continuing to strengthen opportunities for inclusive competition in Scotland.

We are currently developing a clear visual representation of the adapted judo pathway to help judoka better understand the opportunities available and navigate their journey through the sport.

Club Focus

We have been delighted to see some clubs focussing on inclusion with their Summer of Sport initiatives and in utilising sportscotland’s ‘Club Support Programme’ fund.

One great example is Garioch Judo Club, who partnered with a local primary school to deliver judo sessions for children with learning difficulties and neurodivergent needs. The programme is designed to support participants’ confidence, movement skills, and social development, while providing a fun and inclusive introduction to judo.

Inclusion at the Heart of Development

At the centre of this progress are JudoScotland’s regional Adapted and Visually Impaired training sessions, which are open to judoka of all ages and abilities.

These welcoming sessions support participants with physical, sensory and intellectual impairments, as well as learning disabilities. They provide an environment where everyone can enjoy the benefits of judo while developing their skills, confidence and connections with others.

Whether you want to try judo for the first time, return to the sport, build your confidence or work towards competition, you are welcome.

Delivered by JudoScotland’s Disability Development Officer, the sessions play an important role in introducing new participants to judo and supporting existing athletes as they continue their journey.

JudoScotland Disability Development Officer Stephen Somerville said:

“The growth of adapted judo across Scotland has been incredible to witness. From young people experiencing judo for the first time at our regional training sessions to athletes representing Scotland and winning medals on the international stage, we are seeing more opportunities than ever before.

“Our aim is to ensure that every individual who wants to participate in judo has a pathway to do so, regardless of their ability. Everyone’s journey is unique, and every achievement — whether it is stepping onto the mat for the first time, building confidence in training or competing internationally — is something to celebrate.

“The success of our athletes, together with the growing demand for inclusive opportunities, shows that we are moving in the right direction and building a stronger, more welcoming future for judo in Scotland.

“Judo is possible for all. We want everyone to feel that they can come along, get involved and be part of the Judo Family.”

Get Involved

Whether you’re looking to try judo for the first time, take part in an inclusive training session, or compete at one of our upcoming events, there has never been a better time to get involved.

View our upcoming Adapted and Visually Impaired events and training opportunities below.

JudoScotland has today opened nominations for the annual Community Awards, focusing on celebrating the incredible efforts of the judo community both on and off the mat.  

Following an incredible summer for Scottish sport, this year’s awards aim to celebrate and recognise the outstanding contributions made by clubs, coaches, volunteers, technical officials and referees across the Scottish judo community. 

Last year, we renamed our Lifetime Contribution Award in honour of Dr George Kerr CBE, 10th Dan, recognising his exceptional contribution to judo and his status as Scotland’s only 10th Dan. To preserve the prestige and significance of this award, we have taken the decision to present it on a biennial basis, rather than annually, with the next nomination opening for this in 2027.  

New for this year, and following the lead of British Judo, we are introducing the Humble Warrior Award. This award recognises an individual or group who has made a significant contribution to their community by using judo as a force for positive change, helping to tackle social inequalities and create opportunities for others. 

This year the awards programme will feature eight categories, recognising excellence and dedication at all levels of the sport. Nominees should exemplify the values of judo through their actions, demonstrating integrity, respect and a strong commitment to the principles of ‘Three Steps Safe’. 

Humble Warrior awarded to a person or group who has made a significant contribution to the development of judo over the past year, with a strong focus on community impact and educational leadership. 
Nominees should reflect the vision of Jigoro Kano by promoting the judo values and using judo as a tool for personal growth, inclusion, and the betterment of society.

Club of the Year will be awarded to a club that has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the development, delivery and growth of judo within its community. This award recognises clubs that provide high-quality opportunities for participation, support the progression of judoka at all levels, and make a positive contribution to the wider judo community. The award also acknowledges a club’s commitment to the values of JudoScotland, recognising those that consistently provide safe, welcoming and inclusive environments through their dedication to Three Steps Safe. To be eligible, clubs must be affiliated to JudoScotland and have achieved, or be actively working towards, accreditation. 

Club Coach of the Year celebrates a coach who has made a remarkable impact by fostering the growth of judoka, expanding access to Judo opportunities, and significantly increasing participation within their community. To be eligible, coaches must appear on the JudoScotland coach register. 

Disability Coach of the Year recognises an outstanding coach working with people with disabilities. This coach will have provided inclusive opportunities by actively removing barriers to participation and taking time to deliver judo sessions to meet participants’ needs, to help them develop their skills, build confidence and resilience, and develop a positive attitude towards sport and physical activity.    To be eligible, coaches must appear on the JudoScotland coach register. 

Player Development Coach of the Year will be presented to a coach who has made an outstanding contribution to long-term athlete development aligned with the JudoScotland Player Development Framework.  To be eligible, coaches must appear on the JudoScotland coach register. 

Player Development Coach of the Year will be presented to a coach who has made an outstanding contribution to long-term athlete development aligned with the JudoScotland Player Development Framework.  To be eligible, coaches must appear on the JudoScotland coach register. 

Volunteer of the Year recognises a volunteer in a non-coaching role who has made an outstanding contribution to their club and the wider judo community. From club helpers and event volunteers to Club Welfare Officers and committee members, these individuals work tirelessly behind the scenes to help clubs thrive, creating opportunities for others to enjoy and succeed in judo. 

Technical Official/Referee of the Year will be presented to a Technical Official/Referee who has made a significant contribution to the sport through their hard work and dedication and has delivered a high level of performance both on and off the mat.  

Young Person of the Year recognises an outstanding young person (aged 16-24) who goes above and beyond to be a role model to young people and is a positive representative of the judo community.  

The award nomination period will close at noon on Wednesday 30th September 2026. The award winners will be announced at the JudoScotland AGM on Sunday 1st of November 2026, following a selection process by a judging panel. 

A brief update from the JudoScotland Chair, Marc Preston, on activity in July and August

Peter Gardiner was presented with the George Kerr (10th Dan) Lifetime Contribution Award in recognition of his long involvement in judo and his contribution to coaching and club development over several decades. 

Having spent more than fifty years involved in the sport, Peter has worked with a wide range of children and adults throughout his time in judo. His coaching has focused on developing technical ability, discipline, and confidence, with many students progressing through the sport at local and national levels. 

Over the years, he has played a role in supporting club activity, mentoring, developing judoka, and helping to maintain opportunities for participation within the wider judo community. His involvement has spanned coaching and grassroots development, reflecting a longstanding commitment to the sport. His club Sportif have topped the Scottish National Closed medal table for 20 years. 

The George Kerr (10th Dan) Lifetime Contribution Award is intended to acknowledge individuals who have dedicated significant time and service to judo. Peter’s presentation recognised the length of his involvement and the contribution he has made across different areas of the sport during that period. 

The award was presented to Peter by George Kerr, President Emeritus of JudoScotland and the award’s namesake. He was presented with the Kawamura Trophy, a historic award that will be presented to recipients of the JudoScotland Lifetime Contribution Award. This initiative preserves the memory of the event while giving the trophy a new purpose, after more than 30 years of being on display. 

As we celebrate Peter’s contribution to the sport, we look forward to recognising our incredible community of volunteers, coaches, officials and clubs when nominations for the 2026 JudoScotland Community Awards open next week. 

Do you have a passion for making judo accessible to everyone across Scotland? Do you want to help shape the future of our sport? If so, we’d love to hear from you. 

JudoScotland is seeking two elected Non-Executive Directors to join our Board and play a key role in delivering our strategic ambitions as we enter a new strategic cycle. The vacancies arise as two current Directors reach the end of their terms of office. 

Earlier this year, the JudoScotland Board introduced a portfolio model, designed to ensure each Director’s skills, experience, and expertise are directly aligned with JudoScotland’s strategic priorities. This targeted structure helps to drive excellence across every area of the organisation while supporting clearer decision-making and more efficient leadership.  

The portfolios 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. 

As a member of the JudoScotland Board, you will have the opportunity to contribute to key decisions that shape the future of the sport in Scotland. It is a rewarding role that allows you to make a meaningful difference to our members, clubs and wider judo community.  

If you are interested in applying, take a look at the candidate pack below and feel free to get in touch for an informal conversation. 

Application Process and Eligibility 

To be eligible for election, applicants must be a current JudoScotland member and be endorsed by two affiliated member clubs. 

A suggested nomination pro forma can be found in the application pack below. 

The Lausanne Grand Slam will go down in history as a truly groundbreaking tournament, marking the monumental and welcome inclusion of Adaptive Judo on the Grand Slam stage. This remarkable event showcased the very best of world judo, celebrating inclusivity, elite skill, and extraordinary sporting spirit.

Representing the British squad with distinction, the six Scottish athletes delivered outstanding performances across the board:

• Rebecca Lamb – Gold

• Sean Allan – Gold

• Chris Murphy – Silver

• Solomon Rice – Silver

• Ross McInnes – 5th place

• Jaden Stewart – 5th place

JudoScotland Disability Development Officer, Stephen Somerville, was in attendance with the team and reflected on their achievements: “For many of our fighters, stepping onto the mats in Lausanne represented a whole new level of international competition. Their dedication, determination, and grit truly brought to life the words attributed to the founder of judo, Jigoro Kano: If there is effort, there is always accomplishment.

These fantastic results highlight the strength and depth of Scottish judo on the world stage. Two gold medals, two silver medals, and two fifth-place finishes represent an exceptional achievement and provide great inspiration for the future of Adaptive Judo.”

We now look forward with excitement to the coming events, including the Open European Adapted Judo Championships, the Scottish Championships, and Venray in Holland this November.

Congratulations to Chris, Solomon, Rebecca, Sean, Ross, and Jaden on an outstanding performance at this historic Lausanne Grand Slam!

We are delighted to announce that Sandy Hodge will become Chair of JudoScotland from 1 November 2026. 

JudoScotland was extremely encouraged by both the volume of interest and the calibre of candidates who applied for the role, highlighting the strength of the organisation and the positive direction of the sport in Scotland. 

Sandy brings extensive leadership, governance and sporting experience to the role, having served as JudoScotland’s Independent Director since 2023 and Vice-Chair for the past year. He has been instrumental in driving key developments, including the creation of Board portfolios, and has made a significant contribution through his governance expertise, strategic direction and commitment to the continued growth and success of the organisation. 

As a previous sportscotland Partnership Manager for Judo until 2023, Sandy played a key role in guiding JudoScotland through the pandemic and a significant period of organisational change. His leadership, insight, and constructive partnership helped the organisation, earning widespread respect across the staff team, Board, and wider judo community. 

Currently Chief Executive of The Scottish Football Partnership and The Scottish Football Partnership Trust, he has a proven track record in strategic growth, organisational development and stakeholder engagement. 

Through both his work with sportscotland and his time on the JudoScotland Board, Sandy has developed a deep understanding of the organisation, its people and its future opportunities. His continued commitment to the sport makes him exceptionally well placed to lead JudoScotland into its next chapter. 

Committed to supporting the continued growth of judo in Scotland and delivering positive outcomes for members, clubs and communities across the country, Sandy said on his appointment:  

“I am absolutely delighted and deeply honoured to have been appointed Chair of JudoScotland. I am incredibly grateful for the trust and confidence placed in me and excited to begin this next chapter at such an important time for the sport. 

We are entering a new strategic cycle with a real opportunity to build on the strong foundations already in place. There is a renewed sense of excitement around judo in Scotland and a great opportunity to build on the sport’s increased profile and momentum, following the Commonwealth Games this Summer. 

I look forward to working with the Board, staff, clubs, coaches, athletes and the wider judo community to harness that momentum, grow participation, support our athletes and strengthen judo at every level. It is a real privilege to serve as Chair, and I am excited about what we can achieve together.” 

Current Chair of JudoScotland, Marc Preston added:  

“During my tenure as Chair, Sandy has been a rock and a trusted source of support. 

When I became Chair in 2022, the guidance and encouragement Sandy provided in his role as Partnership Manager for sportscotland was invaluable. When he later chose to put himself forward for an Independent Director position following his departure from sportscotland, we were delighted that he wanted to continue contributing to judo, a sport that I believe has truly become his own.  And, for the past year Sandy has been my Vice Chair and a great source of support.  

Since joining the Board, Sandy has provided invaluable governance expertise, strategic insight and sound judgement, helping to strengthen the organisation during a period of growth and development. I have no doubt that he will be a tremendous success as Chair and continue to make a lasting contribution to JudoScotland and the wider judo community. 

My legacy is to leave the organisation in the hands of someone who can take JudoScotland to the next level, and I have confidence that Sandy will absolutely achieve this.” 

We are delighted to welcome Sandy into the role and look forward to working with him as we continue to develop and strengthen judo across Scotland. As part of a smooth transition, Sandy, Marc and Judith have an initial meeting in the diary with the British Judo Association, providing an early opportunity to strengthen relationships and explore future opportunities together. 

Titan Judo Club has become the most recent club to achieve JudoMARK accreditation status since the scheme was updated in 2024. 

The purpose of the JudoMARK club accreditation scheme is to act as a tool for clubs to reevaluate their processes and procedures ensuring a continued and consistent commitment to maintaining the highest standards of Safeguarding and Wellbeing, People Development, Club Management and Governance. JudoScotland is committed to providing affiliated clubs with the resources and support required to foster not only a safe environment, but one in which the sport can truly flourish. 

The JudoMARK accreditation scheme offers clubs a valuable opportunity to review and strengthen key aspects of their club infrastructure, ensuring these priorities remain central to day-to-day operations. Head Coach, Paul McGuinness spoke about the importance of achieving JudoMARK as a club:   

“JudoMARK has given us a good opportunity to reflect on and improve the services we provide for our members. I’m proud of the collective effort from our coaches and volunteers in running the club, and we’re really happy to have that work recognised through JudoMARK accreditation.” 

The club was presented with their JudoMARK certification last week by Club Support Officer Sam Ingram. Speaking about the club’s journey to achieving JudoMARK status Sam said: 

“It was great to be able to present Titan Judo Club with their JudoMARK award. It’s nice to know the accreditation scheme has had a positive impact on the club and its functions.   Every club has its own challenges, and Titan Judo Club is no different. What has been really positive is the way the club has embraced the JudoMARK process, worked through its challenges and used the opportunity to strengthen the club for the future.” 

“Having more clubs reach this milestone ensures that judo clubs in Scotland continue to be a safe place for people to thrive and highlights that they not only comply with but surpass British Judo’s ‘Three Step Safe’ operating standards.”   

To learn more about JudoMARK and to find out how your club can get involved click here. 

JudoScotland is looking to recruit a Head of Pathway and Performance, a pivotal leadership role that reflects our commitment to strengthening and evolving the athlete development system in Scotland. 

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Head of Pathway and Performance will play a central role in shaping the future of Scottish judo. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership across the performance pathway, ensuring it is purposeful, aligned and focused on the long-term development of every judoka. 

Working closely with staff, coaches, clubs and performance partners, the role will drive the implementation of consistent athlete development principles across every stage of the pathway. The aim is to create a clear, cohesive and high-performing system that supports judoka from their first competitive experiences through to achieving success as senior athletes on the world stage. 

Strong leadership, strategic vision and collaboration will be essential. In particular, the role will focus on building effective partnerships with clubs and coaches across the country to ensure athletes have access to the training opportunities, support structures and development environments needed to progress. 

This role presents a unique chance to help shape the future direction of Scottish judo, influence the development of the next generation of athletes, and contribute to sustainable Scottish success on the international stage. 

If you are passionate about athlete development, collaborative leadership and high-performance sport, and are ready to play a pivotal role at the heart of Scottish sport, JudoScotland would love to hear from you.

Scotland’s highly decorated judoka, Sarah Adlington, took to the tatami for the final time at Glasgow 2026 before retiring from competitive judo, bringing the curtain down on an outstanding career. Her achievements, dedication and sportsmanship have left a lasting legacy, inspiring generations of athletes across Scotland and beyond. 

Sarah leaves the sport as one of the most successful judoka to ever represent Scotland. Competing in the +78kg category for both Scotland and Great Britain, she has enjoyed success on the Commonwealth, European, World and Olympic stages while becoming a role model for countless young people. 

Her name is forever etched in Scottish sporting history following her gold medal-winning performances at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. By claiming Commonwealth titles eight years apart, Sarah became the first Scottish judoka to win two Commonwealth Games gold medals, a remarkable achievement made even more impressive by judo’s absence from the 2018 Gold Coast Games programme. Returning to Glasgow this Year, Sarah had the honour of leading Team Scotland as the Kings Baton Bearer at the Opening Ceremony before going on to compete in her third Games for Scotland.  

In 2021, Sarah fulfilled a lifelong ambition by representing Team GB at the Tokyo Olympic Games, adding an Olympic appearance to an already distinguished career that has seen her compete against the very best athletes in the world. 

While her achievements on the competition mat are extraordinary, Sarah’s influence reaches far beyond medals and titles. 

Sarah is far more than an accomplished athlete. As a coach, mentor and role model, she has a profound impact at every level of the sport, inspiring and supporting judoka within her club EdinburghJudo and across the wider community. 

Sarah has also been a powerful advocate for women and girls in sport, as a valued mentor to younger athletes. Drawing on her extensive international experience, she has supported countless judoka as they transitioned from junior to senior competition, offering guidance, encouragement and insight as they prepared for major events on the world stage. 

As Sarah steps away from competitive judo, she leaves behind a legacy defined not only by historic sporting achievements, but also by the lives she has touched throughout her career. Her impact on Scottish judo, her club, her teammates and the wider community will continue to be felt for many years to come. 

Everyone at JudoScotland would like to thank Sarah for her outstanding contribution to the sport and wish her every success in the next chapter of her journey.