News

JudoScotland is delighted to announce a series of exciting updates to its nationally recognised Kai Grade system for judoka under 8, designed to better support young judoka at the very start of their judo journey. 

Following a wider review of grading schemes, identified as a key priority to strengthen judoka development, the Kai Grades are the latest to benefit from enhancements, building on the successful updates made to Mon Grades last year. 

The Kai Grade system enables clubs to deliver a nationally recognised curriculum through qualified coaches, ensuring safe and progressive learning while reinforcing the sport’s commitment to Three Steps Safe. 

Rather than introducing major changes, the focus has been on adding value, improving the experience, and supporting both clubs and families involved in early-stage judo. 

JudoScotland has introduced a range of updates to the Kai Grade system to better support young judoka at the start of their journey. These include a new information sheet for those achieving their 1st Kai Grade to help children and parents understand the pathway, refreshed certificates and badges that are easier to use, and a fun new keyring reward system where members collect coloured obi charms as they progress through the belts. Alongside these enhancements, work is ongoing to further develop the Kai Grade syllabus to ensure it remains age- and stage-appropriate, with more updates to follow later in the year. 

Tony Penfold, Head of Development at JudoScotland, said:
“We know how exciting it is for young judoka to begin their journey through the grading system, so it’s important that those first experiences are positive, engaging, and easy to understand. These enhancements are designed to support children and their families while making each step along the way feel special and rewarding.” 

“The new keyring reward system brings a fun and meaningful way for young judoka to celebrate their progress, while the updated badges and certificates provide a clear and practical way to recognise their achievements and encourage them to keep learning and developing.” 

These enhancements have been shaped by valuable feedback from clubs, coaches, and members across the judo community. JudoScotland looks forward to continuing the development of the syllabus and exploring further ways to enhance the Kyu grade experience next. 

Next up on our Volunteers’ Week spotlight is Callum MacLennan.

Callum has been a volunteer coach for over a decade and has been pivotal to the successes of Edinburgh University Judo Club over the last five years. His commitment to athlete development, inclusivity and community building recently earned him the Alan Chainey Award at the University of Edinburgh Sport Blues and Colours Awards, for his longstanding service to university sport.

“I joined the Edinburgh University Judo Club as a student in 2012, and started volunteering as a coach in 2013. I then served on the committee for 2 years before becoming joint head coach in 2021.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of the club. Without the hundreds of hours selflessly given to it by successive committees and the volunteer coaches, the club simply would not be able to thrive the way it has and continues to do so.”

In addition to his coaching, Callum plays an active role in the Scottish competition workforce as a referee and regularly volunteers at events nationwide – demonstrating his continued dedication to the Scottish judo community.

This Volunteers’ Week, we caught up with BJA National C referee Kirsty Wilson about her journey as a volunteer referee and her ambitions for the future.

At just 18, Kirsty is one of the youngest referees in the country. This summer, she will be part of the team of 23 Scottish technical officials supporting the delivery of the judo programme at the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

In her own words, Kirsty reflects on how refereeing has built her confidence, provided her with skills for life, and opened up new opportunities within judo and beyond.

“I first started refereeing in October of 2022 when I was 14 years old, after my club suggested I attend a refereeing course, and since then my journey as a volunteer referee has grown vastly. In March of this year, I refereed at my first national event: the British Schools Championships. This event, and others that have followed, have been a catalyst for both my confidence and ability.

Becoming a referee has changed my perspective on judo and my mindset on the mat, from being a competitive player and supporter, to now being the referee on the mat making the decisions. Recently, at higher-level events I’ve particularly enjoyed navigating the responsibilities and challenges that come with refereeing. Another highlight in my experience as a referee has been meeting new people outside of Scotland. I have had the opportunity to work with countless high-level referees in the past few months and have learned so much from them. I’ve also got to know many new referees socially, and it has been really lovely to make new friends and spend time with them outside of a sports hall!”

“I have also gained a lot of confidence and maturity, both on and off the mat, through refereeing. I think it has made me back myself and my own ability a lot more, and I hope that this self-assurance continues throughout my life.

I am very excited to be a volunteer technical official at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow this summer! I can’t wait to meet lots of new people and learn new skills in my role as an IJF Care System Camera Operator. As a developing referee, I’m looking forward to watching the high-level refereeing at the Games, and seeing this up close will undoubtedly improve my refereeing! As a player and a fan of judo, I can’t wait to watch the action on the mat too.

I was at both the 2022 Birmingham Games and the 2014 Glasgow Games, so to now be given the opportunity to be a part of the team delivering the 2026 Glasgow Games, it feels like a full circle moment!”

JudoScotland is inviting affiliated clubs to apply for sportscotland Summer of Sport funding to deliver activity from Summer 2026 to March 2027. The programme will help clubs grow membership, strengthen community connections and create more opportunities for young people to get involved in judo.

With the Commonwealth Games on the horizon, this is a great opportunity to raise the profile of judo and welcome new people into your club!

What the funding can support:

The funding aims to increase participation among young people aged 3 to 26, especially those who face barriers such as disability, poverty or limited access to sport.

We’re looking for clubs that can:

• Introduce new participants through taster sessions and beginner programmes
• Reach underrepresented communities
• Create clear pathways into long-term membership
• Deliver new ideas to improve their club offer
• Meet ‘Three Steps Safe‘ standards

Partnership working with schools, community groups and other local organisations is strongly encouraged. Partnerships can strengthen your application and help build long-term local impact.

What does success look like?

Successful programmes may lead to:

• More young people taking part in judo
• Stronger links between clubs, schools and communities
• Greater diversity and inclusion
• Growth in coaches, volunteers and young leaders
• Sustainable growth in club membership

Important information for applicants

• Applications must align with the sportscotland’s Summer of Sport guidance
• We expect high demand, so strong and detailed applications are important
• To allow maximum opportunity and engagement, funding may be awarded proportionally depending on demand

Applications may not be considered if they:

• Do not target young people aged 3 to 26
• Do not aim to grow membership or improve club offerings
• Do not align with Summer of Sport guidance
• Do not support wider participation

Key dates

• Deadline: 24 June 2026
• Decisions announced: 1 July 2026

Further information and a link to apply for Summer of Sport funding have been communicated to all clubs via email. If you would like support with your application, please contact our Club Support Officers:

• Rebecca Bradley – 07743 93450
• Sam Ingram – 07738 846529

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

May proved to be another busy and productive month across the organisation.

Congratulations to everyone who displayed courage and attended the Clyde Grand Prix at the start of the month. The feedback was excellent, and the event ran very smoothly, well done to all involved.

Early in the month, I met with Judith and Rosanna Wood, Marketing and Communications Manager at JudoScotland. Rosanna had the great idea of hosting a podcast, with Judith interviewing me in my role as Chair, exploring the complexities—the highs and the challenges—of the position. We recorded it in a relaxed setting at the Lost Shore Surf Resort in Ratho, sitting outside in deckchairs, enjoying the sunshine. I hope you all enjoy listening when it’s released later this month!

On the 6th, Judith and I met again with Sarah Birrell, sportscotland’s Partnership Manager for judo, to discuss the latest developments and keep sportscotland updated on activity within JudoScotland. I would like to extend my thanks to Sarah for the time and support she consistently gives our organisation, it is always a pleasure working with you.

On a personal note, from 15th–17th May, I had the pleasure of spending a weekend in Madrid with a wonderful group of long-standing judo friends. It marked the final part of my 60th birthday celebrations, and I’d like to thank them all for making it so special. I had a fantastic weekend—thank you all!

On 20th May, we received wonderful news that JudoScotland has been successful in receiving an award from the Summer of Sport fund. Thanks to Tony Penfold and Club Support Officers Sam & Rebecca for their work behind the scenes to prepare the successful application. This fund will be utilised directly to support our affiliated judo clubs with activities designed to help more people get involved in judo – exciting times ahead!

On the 26th, we held our Board of Directors meeting, which was once again highly productive. A number of key policies were reviewed, and we were pleased to include time with sportscotland’s High Performance Manager for judo, Abigail Hewitt, who gave an insight into Sportscotland’s long term plans. My thanks, as always, go to the Board for their continued commitment.

The Judo month concluded on 30th May with the Granite City Grand Prix, another great success—well done to all the volunteers, participants and travelling parents/ spectators.

Finally, I would like to thank our Vice Chair, Sandy Hodge, for our regular Monday catch-ups—they really help set the tone for the week ahead.

Marc Preston, 7th Dan

JudoScotland is delighted to announce that 23 Scottish members of the Scottish competition workforce have been selected to help deliver the judo competition at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. 

The judo programme will take place over the final weekend of the Games, from Friday 31 July to Sunday 2 August at the SEC Centre, bringing the curtain down on a ten-sport programme staged across four key venues within an eight-mile corridor of the city. 

Loretta Doyle, Sport Competition Manager for Judo at Glasgow 2026, emphasised the importance of the announcement: 

“Ensuring a strong presence of Scottish technical officials at Glasgow 2026 is vital not only for the smooth delivery of the Games but for the long-term growth of our sporting community. Major events like this are powerful drivers of progress — they give our officials the chance to operate at the highest level, gain invaluable experience, and bring that expertise back into clubs, competitions, and development pathways across Scotland.” 

“For judo, having a large group of domestically trained technical officials involved strengthens the sport’s foundations. It inspires the next generation, raises standards across the country, and reinforces Scotland’s reputation as a nation capable of delivering world‑class events.” 

“Glasgow 2026 isn’t just a moment in time; it’s an investment in the future of Scottish sport and the people who make it possible.” 

JudoScotland National Technical Official Coordinator, Gordon Allan, added: “The level of volunteers selected is a real testament to our outstanding team of Technical Officials, who continue to demonstrate that they are not only an invaluable asset to the Scottish Judo community but also to the wider global judo family. On a personal note, I am delighted and honoured to be part of the team during these exciting home games.” 

The selected officials will take on a range of key roles across the event, including weigh-in operations, timekeeping and scoring, technique recording, judogi control, and operating the IJF CARE system. Their expertise will be essential in ensuring the smooth and professional delivery of the competition. 

Selected Technical Officials 

Weigh-In 

• Emma Herd 

• Ursula Kolodziej 

• Christopher Lambert 

• David Anderson 

Timekeeper / Scorer 

• Mark Brien 

• Michele Strachan 

• Kirsty McNealis

• Gordon Allan 

Technique Recording 

• Adam Lovey 

• Graeme MacLachlan 

• James McBeath 

• Paul Grady 

Judogi Control 

• Neil Malone 

• Audrey Pirie 

• Charlie Strachan 

• Kirsty Lyon 

IJF CARE System Camera Operators 

• Kirsty Wilson 

• Alex Reid 

• Victoria Kirk 

• Martin Baillie 

• Bennedict Patton 

• Ryan Ferry 

Reserve 

• Ronen Raduzky 

With Glasgow 2026 fast approaching, the announcement reflects not only the strength of Scottish officiating but also the lasting legacy the Games aim to leave behind: developing people, raising standards, and inspiring future generations across the sport. 

We are delighted to confirm that Graeme Randall will join the Team Scotland judo coaching team for Glasgow 2026, along with Gary Edwards and Taka Kitahara, bringing a wealth of elite competitive experience to support our athletes as they prepare for and compete at the Games. 

Graeme is one of Scotland’s most successful judokas, best known for becoming the nation’s first World Judo Champion in 1999. An Olympian and Commonwealth Games gold medallist in 2002, he also claimed multiple British and Scottish titles and enjoyed consistent success on the international stage. 

Following his competitive career, Graeme has continued to contribute to high-performance sport and currently works with sportscotland as a Sports Programme Manager. 

On his appointment, Graeme said:
“I am delighted to be joining Team Scotland at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. I hope to serve the team to the best of my ability, and I know the hard work and dedication of all the athletes and staff will shine through. Representing Scotland at the Commonwealth Games is a true honour, and I am looking forward to working with the whole team to ensure the home supporters enjoy what will be an amazing Games”

We are thrilled to welcome Graeme to the team and look forward to the impact his experience and expertise will have in supporting our judoka at what promises to be a landmark home Games. 

JudoScotland’s Head of Performance Alberto Borin is leaving JudoScotland by mutual agreement with effect from 31st May 2026.

We thank Alberto Borin for all of his endeavours in this role and in his contributions in supporting preparations for the Commonwealth Games at home in Glasgow this summer.

Built not bought. 100% me.

JudoScotland is proud to support Clean Sport Week 2026 (11–17 May), the annual awareness campaign led by UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) that champions fair play, integrity, and drug‑free sport.

This year’s theme, “Built not bought. 100% me.”, celebrates athletes who achieve true, lasting success through hard work, talent, and commitment. It sends a clear message: champions compete clean and don’t take shortcuts.

Clean Sport Week 2026 comes at a critical time. There is growing concern across the sporting and fitness community about the marketing and availability of Image and Performance Enhancing Drugs (IPEDs) online, including Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs).

Increasing amounts of online content are promoting the use of SARMs to young people, often claiming they are ‘safer alternatives to anabolic steroids’. This is not true. SARMs are dangerous, not approved for human consumption, and are banned in sport.

UKAD is using Clean Sport Week to shine a light on this misinformation and to remind people not to risk their health, career, or reputation by taking these substances. Don’t swallow the lies.

JudoScotland is committed to ensuring that everyone involved in judo — from elite athletes to grassroots participants and young fitness enthusiasts — has access to accurate information and is empowered to make healthy, drug‑free choices.

The message is simple: just don’t risk it.
True success is built, not bought.

🔗 To find out more about Clean Sport Week and access resources, visit: Clean Sport Week 2026 | UK Anti-Doping

🔗If you’re a coach looking for a CPD opportunity focused on clean sport, click here.

🔗Performance Pathway Athletes and Coaches, Play your part in protecting clean sport. Register for Clean Sport 2 here.

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

I hope everyone had a fantastic Easter and that you were able to enjoy a break during the month.

April was a relatively quiet month for events due to the school holidays, but that certainly didn’t mean a slowdown in activity behind the scenes, with plenty of work continuing across the organisation.

Firstly, I’d like to highlight the exciting new opportunities for judo that have arisen through sportscotland’s £18m increased investment. As part of this year’s Summer of Sport, affiliated clubs will have the opportunity to apply to host events, helping to engage new audiences and grow judo in their communities. Eligible clubs can develop Business Cases with JudoScotland as part of the Club Support programme, investment that is being targeted nationally to help clubs and communities ensure they have robust governance and to increase their capacity. A very exciting opportunity for our clubs and sport!

For me, much of April was taken up attending a number of essential governance and compliance meetings at JudoScotland. I would like to extend my thanks to the teams at AAB, Harper Macleod, and Children First, who are consistently on hand to provide JudoScotland with expert support, guidance, and advice.

On 28th April, I travelled to Walsall to attend the British Judo Association Board meeting. I’d like to thank Andrew Scoular, CEO, for looking after me during the trip and for kindly dropping me off at the airport afterwards.

Finally, with this summer’s Commonwealth Games fast approaching, best of luck to all athletes chasing qualification before the end‑of‑month deadline. An exciting summer of sport awaits!

Marc Preston, 7th Dan