News

The Scottish Open Judo Tournament takes place this weekend, marking the start of JudoScotland’s 2025 competition calendar.

The event returns to sportscotland National Centre, Inverclyde for the third year in a row for an exciting weekend of international judo. The event will see over 700 competitors take to the mat from over 16 nations, including Japan, the USA, Germany, France and the Home Nations.

This year’s event has a jam-packed programme in each category and will see the introduction of adapted categories on Saturday, bringing a new and inspiring dimension to the event while promoting inclusivity and accessibility. These categories provide judoka with an incredible opportunity to showcase their talents in front of an enthusiastic crowd at the sportscotland National Sports Centre, Inverclyde. The introduction of the adapted categories is perfectly timed to celebrate the remarkable growth of adapted Judo both nationally and internationally.

Kirsten Taylor, a member of the GB Visually Impaired Squad who narrowly missed out on Paris 2024, will take to the mat on Saturday. Joining her is Sean Allan from Castle Douglas Judo Club, coming off a stellar 2024 season that saw him clinch gold at the Open European Intellectual Impairment Championships in November.

Saturday will also feature competition in the Cadet and Veteran categories. In the Cadets, Luke Hunter (-46kg) and Archie Strang (-66kg) will aim to replicate their success at the British Championships in December, where both clinched gold. The Veterans’ competition promises to be a truly international affair, with athletes from Japan, Germany, France, and Spain showcasing their skills, making for an exciting display of judo.

On Sunday, Junior and Senior Judoka will take to the tatami, for what is set to be an action-packed day. Siblings Joe and Lexi Buchanan are set to compete following their impressive medal haul at the Scottish National Championships in November. Lexi achieved a remarkable triple triumph in the -44kg category, securing gold in Cadets, Juniors, and Seniors. Meanwhile, Joe claimed a double victory, winning gold in both the Junior and Senior -60kg categories. Meanwhile, Jocelyn Callaghan will be a key contender in both the Junior and Senior -52kg categories, building on her strong performance at the British Championships in November, where she narrowly missed out on a medal. Judith McCleary, JudoScotland CEO said: “We are excited to welcome judoka from across the world to our flagship international competition to kickstart the JudoScotland 2025 calendar.

The Scottish Open is an opportunity to showcase our sport on the international stage with every match being live streamed on the JudoScotland website. Hosting the Scottish Open provides our judoka the chance to compete with some of the best judo nations on home soil and with the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games just around the corner, events such as this highlights that Judo in Scotland has a strong reputation on the international circuit for competitive events.”

The Scottish Open will take place this weekend on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th January at the sportscotland National Centre, Inverclyde. Click here for more information about the event.

JudoScotland is deeply saddened to announce the passing of George McQuillan, 6th Dan. George passed away peacefully, surrounded by close family.

A highly respected figure in the judo community, George was a 6th Dan and a long-standing coach at Glasgow University Judo Club. He profoundly impacted the lives of many, inspiring countless students and peers with his dedication, knowledge, and passion for the sport.

The Judo community will sadly miss him. Our thoughts go out to his family.

George’s funeral will take place on Tuesday 31st January at 3pm at Daldowie Crematorium, Broom House, 17 Hamilton Rd, Uddingston G717RU and thereafter at Alona Hotel, Strathclyde Country Park, Hamilton Road, Motherwell ML1 3RT.

Stephanie Roulston, a dedicated member of West Calder Judo Club, has been recognised as JudoScotland’s Community Coach of the Year. This prestigious accolade is part of the JudoScotland Coaching and Volunteering Awards, a national programme celebrating the dedication and hard work of judo’s workforce across Scotland.
The Community Coach of the Year award 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.
Stephanie has been honoured with the Community Coach of the Year award for her exceptional dedication and unwavering commitment to West Calder Judo Club. When the clubs former Head Coach retired on the grounds of ill health, Stephanie stepped up without hesitation. While balancing the demands of caring for a young baby, she further developed her skills through technical courses and kata training. Her selflessness and passion for Judo have been instrumental in keeping the club thriving. Stephanie’s “can-do” attitude has inspired members of the Judo community across the country, making her a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Richard Marsh, a fellow coach from Carnegie Judo Club, inspired by Stephanie’s commitment after attending various coach development courses with her said “Without Stephanie (and her significant dedication to the community) West Calder Judo Club would have closed. After training with hundreds of coaches I would struggle to think of anyone that could match her quiet commitment to her players and her club.”
Tony Penfold, JudoScotland Head of Development, said, “Stephanie’s dedication to her club is nothing short of extraordinary. She has stepped up to ensure the club can continue to be the valuable asset it is to the community, safeguarding the future of Judo in the area. A truly selfless individual, she embodies the Judo moral code in every way.”
Stephanie was presented her award at West West Calder Judo Club by JudoScotland Head of Development Tony Penfold.

A reflection from the Chair on 2024 as we look ahead to the new year.

Dear Members,

I was standing almost 7,000m in the air, looking at the summit of Aconcagua, when the following conversation ensued.

Our Head Guide, Vito, had made the decision that, based on strict summit safety guidelines (around descending in daylight and having the time to conduct any emergency evacuations required), that we’d effectively run out of time and would not be able to climb to reach the summit. There was only around 100m to go, but, due to the steepness of the slope, it would’ve taken us about 45 minutes to climb. That was time we didn’t have.

One team member disagreed and thought he should be given the right to attempt to summit. It was the time for our Guide to show strong leadership qualities. He did. And so we started our descent.

The reason I start with this anecdote, is that afterwards, when I was thinking about it, I could see many parallels between my journey in Aconcagua and the journey that JudoScotland is going through.

There are lots of ups and lots of downs. But we keep going. Sometimes the right decisions are not the most popular, but as long as they are made for the right reasons, then they are totally justifiable.  During my 3 week expedition there were many times I fell into my tent, exhausted, thinking that my journey had ended and I had nothing left to give for the day after.   Then, the next day, we got up and, as a team, we just got going again.

And going back to JudoScotland, on reflection, I believe we’ve had an excellent year.  As a team we’ve implemented many changes to improve our organisation and run an excellent Scottish Open, followed by our excellent world-class Gathering.  And finally the year cumulated in JudoScotland, for the first time in our entire history, winning the National Governing Body of the Year Award. I’ve never been prouder as Chair of our organisation to take this fantastic accolade given to us by our peers.

And, so, as the year comes to an end, I’d like to take the opportunity to thank the clubs, coaches, judoka, volunteers, staff and Board of Directors for coming together and working so hard for us all to achieve this award.

Over the next couple of years, there will be many major decisions that need to be made – some of them straightforward. Others not. But all made for the right reasons.

I hope you all had a great Christmas and Hogmanay and are looking forward, like I am, to an exciting and productive 2025!

Marc Preston

6th Dan

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.

The closing date for the 2025 Kaizan Academy is Friday 7th February 2025. 

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.