Judo Scotland

2026 Granite City (Grand Prix)
2026-05-30 | Aberdeen Sports Village, Linksfeld Road, Aberdeen, AB24 5RU
Hosted by clubs, but open to all judoka, the JudoScotland Grand Prix series plays a vital role in a young Judoka’s development. It introduces critical elements to a judoka’s progress such as coping with competition, sportsmanship, dealing with pressure and the use of tactics, key skills not just for sport but for life.
This Event is now at full capacity. Please email info@judoscotland.com to be added to the waiting list or remove yourself from the competition if you no longer wish to compete.
Ahead of the competition, the following information has been pulled together:
Date: Saturday 30th May 2026
Venue: Aberdeen Sports Village, Linksfield Rd, Aberdeen AB24 5RU
Access to venue: 8.30am for competitors and spectators – no entry prior to this.
Spectator Fee: Free
Saturday weigh in

Age Band AA – Year Born 2016/2017/2018: 8.45am to 9.05am
Age Band A – Year Born 2014/2015: 9.10am to 9.35am
Age Band B – Year Born 2012/2013: 10.00am to 10.30am
Age Band C – Year Born 2009/2010/2011: 11.30am to 12.00am
Seniors: 13.45pm to 14.15pm

Competitor changing rooms: Numbers 3 & 4
Timegraph
AA Band will start of the day at 10.00am followed by A Band, B Band, C Band and concluding the day with the Seniors categories.
Please note that there remains the possibility that actual group sizes may differ on the day, through circumstances out with the Tournament Organisers control (non-appearance, change of weight category etc.).
Things to remember:
• A valid Judo Licence is necessary to attend this event.
• Please remember to bring your Judo Licence or be able to show that your licence is in date.
Additional Information
Food & beverages: Two on-site cafés. Tesco Express round the corner at the petrol station
Important information: Please be careful in the centre of Aberdeen as there has been many new Bus Gates installed and that the LEZ areas are in operation.
Additional Parking Map Entry List Event Outlines The Grand Prix series is intended to provide judoka with an appropriate level of competition. This event is suitable for those who are at the progression (minors and pre-cadets) and developing athletes (cadets & seniors) within the JudoScotland Player Development Framework. Please speak to your club coach before entering to ensure this event is suitable for you.

Katame no Kata Course (May 2026)
2026-05-31 10:00 - 16:00 (Europe/London) | JudoScotland, EICA - Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, EH28 8AA
Interested in improving your technical knowledge and ability, would you like to know more about developing your own judo. Kata has a fundamental place in all judokas development and is an integral part of Kano’s teachings, kata will hone your technical understanding and application of the technique whilst the randori (not contest training) will challenge and test the skill you have learned.
Our Katame no Kata course will be run by David Gibson 5th Dan & Colin Dunlop 4th Dan who are BJA Kata Examiners and are medallists from the 2023 & 2024 British Kata Championships. Using their extensive knowledge of Kata they will take you through the course in a way that will provide you with a deeper understanding of the content for you to either develop further yourself or pass on to your students within the club.
This course is suitable for judoka over the age of 13 years, it would be advantageous to bring a partner you are comfortable working with to get the most from the course and if possible a white judogi is preferred for kata practice. Opportunities to obtain a kata qualification can be discussed on the course and generally kata examinations are held at National Gradings.
Although this course is suitable for coach revalidation, it is suitable for any judoka open to self improvement and provides information to help successfully complete a judoka’s Dan grade theory. Book Your Space Here

Scottish Veterans Judo Session (June 2026)
2026-06-07 13:00 - 15:00 | JudoScotland, EICA - Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, EH28 8AA
Monthly Veteran Training Sessions
All Veteran judoka are encouraged to come along to the monthly training sessions at the National Training Centre, the sessions provide a valuable opportunity to socialise and train with like-minded judoka.
You must register before the session by booking onto the session via the JustGo membership portal. Sessions cost £5.
If you have a JudoScotland membership already, the process is simple. Log in to your account, using your membership number as your username and complete the event ticket for the session you wish to attend. If you are a member with another national association who is visiting for the Veterans session, please contact JudoScotland on 0131 333 2981 to book your space.
Sessions are open to all players 29 years and above regardless of ability, gender, experience or grade, everyone can take something away from these sessions. Book Your Space Join the Scottish Masters Facebook Page Shop Macron Masters Clothing

Level 2 Coaching Course SCC (June)
2026-06-13 09:00 - 17:00 | Spectrum House, 1A North Avenue, Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire,, G81 2DR
This is the only Level 2 course of 2026. The course will be hosted at Spectrum House, in Clydebank on the 13th & 14th June and the 20th & 21st of June 2026 with the assessment completed remotely/video by the 4th September 2026. Please ensure when signing up for this course you are able to attend all of the dates shown above.

Minimum requirements for entry to the course:

Applicants MUST be a current member of JudoScotland (and be a JudoScotland member for at least one calendar year prior to application to be considered for funding).
Age : 17 years + (must be 18 years old by the start date of the course)
Grade : 1st Kyu (Brown belt)
All candidates must be familiar with the Gokyo prior to the course starting.

Blended Learning Format:
We now have a blended learning approach to our coaching system, so please read on before going ahead and booking the course. Prior to attending you will have to complete an online section which we have given you two weeks to complete. Once registration is closed, all the candidates will be sent a link to our Bright Space platform for you to work through the online modules.
Register:
Please complete all sections of the application as JudoScotland will be reviewing each case individually and decisions will be made from the information you provide.
Clubs and coaches who are not members of JudoScotland who would like to attend this course should contact paulmcguinness@judoscotland.com to book and will need to pay the non-subsidised fee of £400.

PLEASE READ PAYMENT INFORMATION BELOW
The cost for this course is £400.
*Number of funded places will be limited to 16, course cost will be £400 thereafter.

Over the last fifteen years JudoScotland have received a subsidy from sportscotland to make coaching more affordable to a wider audience.
In 2025/26 sportscotland have updated their focus to shine a spotlight on EDI. This refocus now means that JudoScotland must refresh our subsidy policy moving forward, through our ‘Judo for All’ strategy we have identified some key target groups that will be considered for financial subsidy against our course costs.
For more information on sportscotland updated policy please visit their website here.

JudoScotland will consider course subsidy applications from all qualifying JudoScotland members who sit in one or more of our target groups for 2025/26.

Females
Members 16 years to 25 years

With consideration of the additional following categories where possible:

Members from rural areas
Disabled members
Members from ethnic minorities
Members living in 20% most deprived area according to the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD)

Successful applicants will receive funding at the rate of 25%, 50% or 75% towards the cost of their course.
To see if you qualify for subsidy for this event please complete the online form when you have selected your ticket.
If your application for subsidy is successful, a partial refund will be issued to you (upon completion of the course), you will also be notified by email.
If the applicant agrees to the subsidy offered and accept, they must complete the course within the dates advertised, failure to adhere to the agreed dates will result in the funding being forfeited and the applicant being invoiced for the required amount or the subsidy not being granted.
THE DATES ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE More Information and Book Your Space

JudoScotland Contest Recorder Award Course (In-person)
2026-06-13 12:00 - 16:00 | JudoScotland, EICA - Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, EH28 8AA
JudoScotland is pleased to announce that we are holding a Technical Official Contest Recorders Course which is the second level of officiating, applicants must hold a Timekeeper/Scorer qualification to attend this course.
The training programme for Contest Recorders is normally done over different levels of competitions, building on the elements learned as a Timekeeper/Scorer and focuses in on how to run an officiating table at a competition.
On successful completion of the training programme candidates will be able to run pools and knockout sections of a competition and run an officiating table.
This workshop will be a face to face course.
At the end , an assessment will be held.
To be eligible you should be:

at least 13 years of age
Hold a Timekeeper/Scorer qualification and have been active at a minimum of 3 events since qualification
Good communication and ‘people skills’

What’s involved?

Awareness of legends and scores.
Awareness of usual contest times, osaekomi times and rest times.
How to run a table in general.
How to run pools or compound knockout.
Understand the procedure when a player fails to appear or withdraws (including calling for a player).
Awareness of basic safeguarding.

If you are a non JudoScotland member please email events@judoscotland.com to secure your place. Book Your Space

JudoScotland National Male & Female 1st Kyu & Dan Grading (-30 years)
2026-06-14 | Cluarankwai Judo Club, 21 New Mill Road, KA1 3JB
JudoScotland is pleased to present the National Kyu and Dan Grading, exclusively for judoka aged under 30. Taking place on Sunday 14th June 2026, this event offers grading opportunities for both male and females at 1st Kyu and Dan Grade levels. With options for theory-only, competitive grading, or a combination of both, the day will include formal assessments, promotional line-ups, and a welcoming atmosphere for judoka continuing their journey in the sport. Grading Timetable
9.00-10.45am Theory Exams
10.00-10.45am Competitive Check In
11.00am Formal Bow with theory awards and welcome

Preliminary Contests
Dan Grade Promotional Line Ups

Book Your Space

Tanoshii Judo Team Rumble Event
2026-06-21 | James Gillespie’s High School, 120 Warrender Park Road, Edinburgh, EH9 1DD
Come along for an action-packed day of judo! The Team Rumble aims to maximise time on the mat in a friendly and relaxed environment, so is perfect for those new to competing. Having mixed teams adds a fun and exciting twist to the competition!
Win prizes with your team in our fun physical challenges!
Open to judoka aged 8-13 on the day of the competition.
For more information and how to apply please visit Tanoshii Judo’s website below. More Information

East Regional Adapted & VI Training Session (June 2026)
2026-06-28 13:00 - 14:30 | JudoScotland, EICA - Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, EH28 8AA
JudoScotland’s Adapted & VI Training Sessions are open to all ages of judoka. This inclusive session welcomes all levels of disability, including Physical, Sensory, Intellectual Impairment, and Learning Disabilities.
The session will be spilt into two groups to accommodate all levels of judo ability from beginners to more experienced players. All sessions are delivered by the JudoScotland Disability Officer to ensure a fully inclusive and engaging experience.

Group 1: JudoScotland National Regional Adapted & VI Training (Open Entry)
JudoScotland invites Junior and Senior players to our open-entry National Regional Adapted & VI Training Session. Children under 8 are also welcome! This session is designed for participants of all ability levels and all types of disability, including Physical, Sensory, Intellectual Impairment, and Learning Disabilities.
With support from the JudoScotland Disability Development Officer, the session will be adapted to suit all levels of impairment, ensuring an inclusive, engaging, and positive experience for every athlete.
Who Can Attend?
Open to all – from complete beginners to players beginning their judo journey
What to Expect:
🥋 A relaxed, enjoyable session suitable for all athletes
🥋 A large mat area designed to support a range of abilities
🥋 Opportunities for coaches to observe and learn more about Adapted & VI judo
🥋 A supportive environment to learn new skills and meet others
🥋 Personal coaches are welcome on the mat

Group 2: JudoScotland National Regional Adapted & VI Training (Intermediate/Advanced – Selected Group)
This Regional Adapted & VI Training Session is designed specifically for selected athletes aged 14+ who are already involved in the JudoScotland Adapted Programme. It provides a more focused training opportunity for developing athletes with varying levels of impairment.
The session will be delivered with support from the JudoScotland Disability Development Officer, ensuring that all athletes receive appropriate, inclusive, and ability-level–specific guidance.
Who Can Attend?
This session is by invitation only.
For further details, please contact the JudoScotland Adaptive Development Officer: Stephen Somerville – stephensomerville@judoscotland.com
What to Expect
🥋 A relaxed but purposeful training session tailored to progressing athletes
🥋 A large mat area suitable for a variety of training needs
🥋 Coaching observation opportunities focused on intermediate/advanced Adapted & VI judo
🥋 A positive environment to build skills and confidence
🥋 Personal coaches are welcome on the mat
Join us for a focused and supportive training environment designed for athletes already progressing through the Adaptive Programme! Book Your Space

Scottish Veterans Judo Session (July 2026)
2026-07-12 13:00 - 15:00 | JudoScotland, EICA - Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, EH28 8AA

Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games
2026-07-23 - 2026-08-02
The Commonwealth Games return to Glasgow in 2026, from July 23rd until August 2nd, and it’s brilliant to be back!
As only the third city in history to host the Games twice, Glasgow brings deep experience and unmistakable character to this global moment. From world-class sport to street-level celebrations, Glasgow 2026 will be an 11-day festival of energy, community and ambition — all set within an eight-mile corridor that puts fans, athletes and the city side by side.
The Judo competition will run from the 31st of July to the 2nd of August.
Glasgow 2026 website Competition Schedule

National Referee Seminar 2026
2026-08-09 10:00 - 17:00 | JudoScotland, EICA - Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, EH28 8AA
JudoScotland Referee Seminar 2026 – Revalidation & Rule Update
JudoScotland is delighted to announce our 2026 Referee Seminar, led by National Referee Coordinator Adam Lovey and tutored by IJF Referee Graeme Maclachlan.
This essential revalidation event is open to all active referees and will provide a clear, practical update on the latest IJF contest rule interpretations to be applied across both BJA and JudoScotland events. Whether you referee at club, national, or performance level, this seminar ensures you stay aligned with international standards and confident in decision-making on the mat.
Join us to sharpen your knowledge, connect with fellow officials, and stay at the forefront of refereeing excellence in Scotland.
Book Your Space

Scottish Veterans Judo Session (August 2026)
2026-08-09 13:00 - 15:00 | JudoScotland, EICA - Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, EH28 8AA

JudoScotland Senior Contest Recorder
2026-08-15 09:30 - 16:30 | JudoScotland, EICA - Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, EH28 8AA
SENIOR RECORDER

Senior Recorder is the third level of officiating offered by British Judo.
The training programme for Senior Recorders is a one-day course, culminating in a written examination.
On successful completion of the training programme, candidates will be able to hold licences for multi-mat competitions up to level 3, non-point scoring.
WHAT DO YOU NEED BEFORE YOU CAN SIGN UP?
You will have:

Held a Competition Recorder qualification for a minimum of 3 years and be at least 18 years of age.
Have current evidence of recording activity at events.
Have good time management, Communication and people skills.
Hold a British Judo Association or JudoScotland membership. This is maintained by the BJA for as long as the Technical official fulfils the revalidation criteria.

TRAINING DETAILS
Senior Recorder training builds on the knowledge and skills of a Contest Recorder.
Candidates sit an examination paper, following a course. As part of their training course candidates learn:

Awareness of all the current competition methods in use
Timetabling
Multi-mat competition management
Movement of players through the various rounds of competition
Awareness of point scoring
Awareness of safeguarding both at the weigh-in and during competition.

Book Your Space

Child Wellbeing and Protection in Sport (CWPS): Virtual Workshop
2026-08-24 18:00 - 21:00 | Online
Child Wellbeing and Protection in Sport (CWPS) supersedes the previous Safeguarding and Protecting Children (SPC) course. The training will provide you with the knowledge on child wellbeing and protection that will give you the confidence to deal with issues that may arise in your role working with children.
Suitable for:
16 years + who are in regulated work, delivering or leading sporting activities.
Please note, if your CWPS certificate is about to expire, you are eligible to complete the CWPS Renewal Award instead of repeating the full course (provided your completed the full course at your last renewal).
sportscotland is offering coaches and volunteers (the learner) the opportunity to advance their learning in CWPS, by giving access to renewal modules in various topics. Instead of just repeating CWPS training after 3 years (i.e completing module 1 & 2), the learner can renew their certificate for another 3 years by completing a series of eLearning. This learning is then valid for another 3 years and it is only then that the learner must complete the whole CWPS training again.
Learners can self-register for the Renewal Award here: https://sportscotland.org.uk/safeguarding-in-sport/child-wellbeing-and-protection/training/child-wellbeing-and-protection-in-sport-renewal-award
If you would like to complete the full CWPS course, details are below:
Module 1
eLearning module introduces you to the basic theory, knowledge and practice which underpins child wellbeing and protection in sport. On average it should take around 30 minutes to complete the module and you MUST complete this module before attending Module 2.
By the end of module 1 learners will be able to:

Understand what is meant by ‘child wellbeing and protection’
Recognise the value of a child-centred approach to child wellbeing and protection
Identify good practise in relation to child wellbeing and protection and how this impacts the sports environment
Recognise the legislative and policy framework around child wellbeing and protection
Identify and respond to possible child wellbeing or protection concerns
Identify the limits of your safeguarding role and know when to get support

Module 2
A 3 hour training course led by one of sportscotland’s approved tutors. Learners must complete both modules to gain the qualification and receive their certificate.
By the end of module 2 learners will:

Be introduced to the Spectrum of Practice and use it to consider, evaluate and respond to common coaching scenarios
Receive an introduction to the factors that create a culture of poor practice
Identify barriers to disclosure
Cover the process for responding to concerns
Put the responding to concerns process into practice to deal with serval complex cases

Access to module 1: Brightspace
sportscotland has recently developed a new registration and certification process using a virtual learning environment – “Brightspace”.
When you book onto a CWPS course through JudoScotland, you will then be given access to Brightspace. This is where you will complete Module 1. When using Brightspace this can only be accessed on Chrome /Safari/Firefox browsers. Internet explorer browser is no longer supported.
Certificates
Once you have completed module 1 and attended module 2, your Tutor will approve the release of your certificate. It will be available to download from your Brightspace portfolio within 24 hours of completing Book Your Space

Level 1 Coaching Course SCC (North-East- August)
2026-08-30 09:00 - 17:00 | GARIOCH SPORTS CENTRE, Strathburn Park, Inverurie, AB51 4GY
Are there any individuals in your club who you feel could inspire the next generation of judoka through coaching? Who want to start running their own sessions? Or do you yourself want to take the next step in your coaching journey by developing your skills and knowledge? Then the Level 1 Coaching Course may be for you.

Minimum requirements for entry to the course:

Applicants MUST be a current member of JudoScotland (and be a JudoScotland member for at least one calendar year prior to application to be considered for funding).
Age : 16 years + (must be 16 years old by the start date of the course)
Grade : 2nd Kyu (Blue belt)
All candidates must be familiar with the Mon/Kyu grade syllabus prior to the course starting.

Blended Learning Format:
We now have a blended learning approach to our coaching system, so please read on before going ahead and booking the course. Prior to attending you will have to complete an online section which we have given you two weeks to complete. Once registration is closed, all the candidates will be sent a link to our Bright Space platform for you to work through the online modules.
Register:

Bookings will close on the 20th August at 12 noon
Once bookings close, you will be sent a link to register with Bright Space. During this period you complete the online content.
Attend the course venue in person on the 30th August 2026
Video assessment by the 9th October 2026.

Please ensure when signing up for this course you are able to attend all of the dates shown above.

PLEASE READ PAYMENT INFORMATION BELOW
The cost for this course is £200.
*Number of funded places will be limited to 16, course cost will be £200 thereafter.
*Assessments completed past the assessment dates forfeit funding and will be chargeable at £75 per assessment.

Over the last fifteen years JudoScotland have received a subsidy from sportscotland to make coaching more affordable to a wider audience.
In 2025/26 sportscotland have updated their focus to shine a spotlight on EDI. This refocus now means that JudoScotland must refresh our subsidy policy moving forward, through our ‘Judo for All’ strategy we have identified some key target groups that will be considered for financial subsidy against our course costs.
For more information on sportscotland updated policy please visit their website here.

JudoScotland will consider course subsidy applications from all qualifying JudoScotland members who sit in one or more of our target groups for 2025/26.

Females
Members 16 years to 25 years

With consideration of the additional following categories where possible:

Members from rural areas
Disabled members
Members from ethnic minorities
Members living in 20% most deprived area according to the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD)

Successful applicants will receive funding at the rate of 25%, 50% or 75% towards the cost of their course.
To see if you qualify for subsidy for this event please complete the online form when you have selected your ticket.
If your application for subsidy is successful, a partial refund will be issued to you (upon completion of the course), you will also be notified by email.
If the applicant agrees to the subsidy offered and accept, they must complete the course within the dates advertised, failure to adhere to the agreed dates will result in the funding being forfeited and the applicant being invoiced for the required amount or the subsidy not being granted.
THE DATES ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE More Information and Book Your Space

JudoScotland Veterans National Male & Female 1st Kyu & Dan Grading (+30 years)
2026-09-06 | Glenrothes Martial Arts Centre, Woolmill Rd, Glenrothes, KY7 5RF, United Kingdom
JudoScotland is pleased to present the National Kyu and Dan Grading for Veterans, exclusively for judoka aged 30 and over. Taking place on Sunday 6th September 2026, this event offers grading opportunities for both male and female veterans at 1st Kyu and Dan Grade levels. With options for theory-only, competitive grading, or a combination of both, the day will include formal assessments, promotional line-ups, and a welcoming atmosphere for experienced judoka continuing their journey in the sport. Grading Timetable
9.00-10.45am Theory Exams
10.00-10.45am Competitive Check In
11.00am Formal Bow with theory awards and welcome

Preliminary Contests
Dan Grade Promotional Line Ups

Book Your Space

Club, Area and National C Referee Course
2026-09-06 10:00 - 16:30 | GARIOCH SPORTS CENTRE, Strathburn Park, Inverurie, AB51 4GY
Become a Certified Judo Referee with JudoScotland! Are you passionate about judo and eager to deepen your understanding of the sport? Whether you’re a player, coach, or completely new to refereeing, this Club/Area & National C Level Referee Course is the perfect opportunity to get started!
Course Details:
📍 Venue: Garioch Sports Centre, Strathburn Park, Burghmuir Drive, Inverurie, AB51 4GY
🗓 Date: Sunday 6th September 2026
⏰ Time: 10am – 4:30pm
💰 Cost: £15 (exam fee only – course fee covered by Judo Scotland!)
Why Join?
✔ Gain expert knowledge of judo rules
✔ Learn from experienced referees
✔ Practical hands-on experience
✔ Open to players, coaches & referees (ages 12+, green belt minimum)
✔ FREE for players & coaches not taking the exam
The cost for this course is £15 which is the fee for your BJA exam, JudoScotland will cover the course cost upon passing your exam you will be eligible to referee at many events. When you start on this journey it is important to keep a diary of all the events that you volunteer at as if you attend 6 JudoScotland events per year you will be eligible for a FREE JudoScotland licence.
Take the first step toward becoming a qualified referee and making an impact in the world of judo. Sign up today!
Referee Courses are open to participants aged 12 and above, with a minimum green belt level. Our goal is to empower clubs and individuals to get more involved in refereeing, thereby elevating the overall quality of Judo events. More Information and Book Your Space

2026 Highland Budokan (Grand Prix)
2026-09-12 | Inverness Leisure Centre, Bught Lane, Inverness, IV3 5SS
Hosted by clubs, but open to all judoka, the JudoScotland Grand Prix series plays a vital role in a young Judoka’s development. It introduces critical elements to a judoka’s progress such as coping with competition, sportsmanship, dealing with pressure and the use of tactics, key skills not just for sport but for life.
Date: Saturday 12th September 2026
Venue: Inverness Leisure Centre, Bught Lane, Inverness, IV3 5SS Book Your Space Here Event Outlines The Grand Prix series is intended to provide judoka with an appropriate level of competition. This event is suitable for those who are at the progression (minors and pre-cadets) and developing athletes (cadets & seniors) within the JudoScotland Player Development Framework. Please speak to your club coach before entering to ensure this event is suitable for you.

Scottish Veterans Judo Session (September 2026)
2026-09-13 13:00 - 15:00 | JudoScotland, EICA - Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, EH28 8AA

Neil Adams MBE 9th Dan Masterclass
2026-09-19 10:30 - 12:30 | JudoScotland, EICA - Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, EH28 8AA
Judo Seminar with Neil Adams MBE – 9th Dan
Gripping Strategies & Competition Preparation
Train with one of the greatest judoka of all time.
Join us for an exclusive judo seminar with Neil Adams MBE, 9th Dan, focusing on effective gripping strategies and the tactical preparation required to successfully throw your opponent in competition.
Drawing on decades of world-class competitive and coaching experience, Neil will break down how gripping decisions directly influence posture, balance, movement, and attacking opportunity at the highest level of judo.
Seminar Focus

🤝 Dominant gripping strategies for modern competitive judo

⚖️ Understanding grip fighting as a tactical battle

🎯 Creating the right conditions to throw — posture, balance, and movement

🔁 Linking gripping, movement, and attack into a coherent competition strategy

🥋 Practical application suitable for competitive judoka and coaches

This session goes beyond techniques, exploring the thinking, preparation, and decision-making that underpin successful throwing in competition.
Who Should Attend?

Competitive judoka

Performance-focused coaches

Those preparing for competition at any level

Judoka looking to improve their gripping confidence and tactical awareness

About the Coach
Neil Adams MBE is a 9th Dan, double World Champion, Olympic silver medallist, and one of the most influential figures in the history of judo. An ambassador for the JudoScotland Kaizen Academy and renowned globally for his technical knowledge, clarity of teaching, and understanding of competitive judo, Neil continues to shape generations of judoka and coaches.

Learn from the best. Refine your grips. Prepare to throw with purpose.
👉 Limited spaces available – early booking recommended.
Click Here For Event Info & To Book Your Space

2026 Strathkelvin Mon, Kyu and Dan Open
2026-09-20 | St Maurices High School, Westfield, Cumbernauld, G68 9AG, United Kingdom
An established developmental event on the Scottish Judo calendar. This event is suitable for beginners, less experienced players or those who are looking to dip their toe in competitive judo. Event Entry Form

Level 1 Coaching Course SCC (West - September)
2026-09-20 09:00 - 17:00 | Spectrum House, 1A North Avenue, Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire,, G81 2DR
Are there any individuals in your club who you feel could inspire the next generation of judoka through coaching? Who want to start running their own sessions? Or do you yourself want to take the next step in your coaching journey by developing your skills and knowledge? Then the Level 1 Coaching Course may be for you.

Minimum requirements for entry to the course:

Applicants MUST be a current member of JudoScotland (and be a JudoScotland member for at least one calendar year prior to application to be considered for funding).
Age : 16 years + (must be 16 years old by the start date of the course)
Grade : 2nd Kyu (Blue belt)
All candidates must be familiar with the Mon/Kyu grade syllabus prior to the course starting.

Blended Learning Format:
We now have a blended learning approach to our coaching system, so please read on before going ahead and booking the course. Prior to attending you will have to complete an online section which we have given you two weeks to complete. Once registration is closed, all the candidates will be sent a link to our Bright Space platform for you to work through the online modules.
Register:

Bookings will close on the 10th September at 12 noon
Once bookings close, you will be sent a link to register with Bright Space. During this period you complete the online content.
Attend the course venue in person on the 20th September 2026
Video assessment by the 30th October 2026.

Please ensure when signing up for this course you are able to attend all of the dates shown above.

PLEASE READ PAYMENT INFORMATION BELOW
The cost for this course is £200.
*Number of funded places will be limited to 16, course cost will be £200 thereafter.
*Assessments completed past the assessment dates forfeit funding and will be chargeable at £75 per assessment.

Over the last fifteen years JudoScotland have received a subsidy from sportscotland to make coaching more affordable to a wider audience.
In 2025/26 sportscotland have updated their focus to shine a spotlight on EDI. This refocus now means that JudoScotland must refresh our subsidy policy moving forward, through our ‘Judo for All’ strategy we have identified some key target groups that will be considered for financial subsidy against our course costs.
For more information on sportscotland updated policy please visit their website here.

JudoScotland will consider course subsidy applications from all qualifying JudoScotland members who sit in one or more of our target groups for 2025/26.

Females
Members 16 years to 25 years

With consideration of the additional following categories where possible:

Members from rural areas
Disabled members
Members from ethnic minorities
Members living in 20% most deprived area according to the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD)

Successful applicants will receive funding at the rate of 25%, 50% or 75% towards the cost of their course.
To see if you qualify for subsidy for this event please complete the online form when you have selected your ticket.
If your application for subsidy is successful, a partial refund will be issued to you (upon completion of the course), you will also be notified by email.
If the applicant agrees to the subsidy offered and accept, they must complete the course within the dates advertised, failure to adhere to the agreed dates will result in the funding being forfeited and the applicant being invoiced for the required amount or the subsidy not being granted.
THE DATES ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE More Information and Book Your Space

MacMillan Coffee Morning
2026-09-23 11:00 - 14:00 | JudoScotland, EICA - Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, EH28 8AA
In aid of MacMillan Cancer Support, JudoScotland will host our annual drop-in coffee morning. So, whether you want to drop in for 5 minutes or meet with one of the team to discuss something specific, let’s all get together to support a fantastic cause.

Alba Judo Veterans Open 2026
2026-09-26 | Cluarankwai Judo Club, 21 New Mill Road, KA1 3JB
This competition is aimed at those judoka who either want to gain greater experience competing, want to gain
points to progress to their next Dan or both. We also want to welcome international competitors looking to
travel for greater experience and compete against like-minded veteran judoka.
All players MUST be a minimum age of 30 years.
Entry fee: £32.00 – Entry fees must be paid at point of entry and are non-refundable.
Online Entries: https://forms.gle/idSGAAJsEMPchDgG7
Email Entries: albajudoveterans@gmail.com
Paper Entries To: David Gibson, 11 Mortonhall Park Loan, Edinburgh, EH17 8S
Please see the PDF document below with further information. Any questions should be emailed to albajudoveterans@gmail.com MORE INFORMATION

West Regional Adapted & VI Training Session (September 2026)
2026-09-27 13:00 - 14:30 | TBC

Bonsai 2026 - Jidel Judo
2026-10-04 | Craigswood, Craigswood Sports Centre, Livingston, EH54 5ER, United Kingdom
This is a bespoke Judo event aimed at beginners or those who are less experienced. For children aged 5,6,7 yrs / 8,9,10 yrs & 11, 12 yrs.
Entry to this event costs £25.00 and the closing date is Friday 25th September 2026.
For more information please visit Jidel Judo’s website or click the link below. More Information

Scottish Veterans Judo Session (October 2026)
2026-10-11 13:00 - 15:00 | JudoScotland, EICA - Ratho, South Platt Hill, Newbridge, EH28 8AA

JudoScotland Time Keeping Online Course
2026-10-14 19:00 - 20:30 | Online
Becoming a timekeeper/scorer is the starting point of your officiating journey in judo.
If you are new to judo and/or want to help out at competitions then this is the officiating role for you.
This course will be delivered initially online and a mentor system will be put into place at competitions. This course focuses on understanding the basics of a judo contest and the role of the timekeeper and scorer plays during competition judo.
On successful completion of the training programme, candidates will be able to act as JudoScotland timekeepers and scorers at British Judo/JudoScotland events and competitions full support will be given to candidates at events.
What do you need before you can sign up?

Be at least 10 years of age
Good communication and ‘people skills’
Training details

Candidates undergo ‘on the job’ training at a competition in order to become timekeepers/scorers. As part of their training candidates learn:

An awareness of referee words and signals which require action from them as Timekeepers/Scorers
An ability to time keep and score effectively including when to re-set at the end of the contest
An awareness of procedure when osaekomi is on at the end of contest time
A basic understanding of scoring and penalty systems

Book Your Space Why Become a Technical Official

Nage no Kata Course (October 2026)
2026-10-17 09:30 - 16:00 | Cluarankwai Judo Club, 21 New Mill Road, KA1 3JB
Develop your technique. Deepen your judo.
Are you interested in improving your technical knowledge and ability? Would you like to better understand how judo techniques truly work — and how to apply them more effectively?
Kata has a fundamental place in every judoka’s development and sits at the heart of Jigoro Kano’s teachings. Through kata, judoka refine their technical understanding, accuracy, balance, and control. This learning is then reinforced through randori (non-contest training), where skills are challenged, tested, and brought to life.
Expert Course Leaders
Over the past decade, we have been delighted to work with David Gibson (5th Dan) and Colin Dunlop (4th Dan) — both BJA Kata Examiners and multiple medallists at the British Kata Championships.
David and Colin will lead this Nage-no-Kata course, guiding participants through each set with clarity and insight, leaving you with a deeper understanding of:

Breaking balance (kuzushi)

Correct positioning and movement

Control, timing, and technical precision

How kata directly improves your overall judo

Who is this course for?

Open to judoka aged 13 years and over

Suitable for all grades with an interest in self-improvement

Ideal for grading preparation, coach development, and technical refinement

Participants are encouraged to bring a partner they are comfortable working with to gain the most from the course. Where possible, a white judogi is preferred for kata practice.
Qualifications & Progression
Opportunities to obtain a kata qualification can be discussed during the course. Kata examinations are typically held at National Gradings, and the learning from this course directly supports Dan grade theory requirements.
While suitable for coach revalidation, this course is not just for coaches — it is for any judoka committed to developing their judo.
Book Your Space Here

Katame no Kata Course (October 2026)
2026-10-24 10:00 - 16:00 | Glenrothes Martial Arts Centre, Woolmill Rd, Glenrothes, KY7 5RF, United Kingdom
