Hamilton Judo Club Inclusion has marked a major achievement by becoming the first club in 2025 to be awarded JudoMARK accreditation. The Club is the third club in Scotland to have reached this milestone since the club accreditation scheme was updated last year.
JudoMARK clubs are committed to maintaining the highest standards of Safeguarding and Wellbeing, People Development, Club Management and Governance. As the national governing body for judo in Scotland, JudoScotland is committed to equipping affiliated clubs with the resources and support they need to create not only a safe environment but one where the sport can thrive. Club Coach Simone Hamill, was the leading charge behind the club’s ambition to obtain JudoMARK and spoke about why she thinks it’s important:
“I think at Hamilton Judo Club Inclusion we have really high standards already; our Safeguarding processes, our People Management processes, our paperwork, making sure that everything is there. Going through the JudoMARK process was a great way to show everyone that we’re there, we’ve done it, and we really keep on top of it.”
From the initial enquiry to completing the process, JudoScotland Club Support Officers were on hand to support the club with any questions they had. Simone was grateful for the support as the club began the process towards the end of 2024.
“The great thing was Laura (Kirkhouse, Club Support Officer) was such a great support, she was always there at the end of the phone or over email. She was so helpful in making sure we were doing everything right and that we had everything that we needed. Any bits we were missing, she was so quick to come back and help us out with them.”
Achieving JudoMARK accreditation helps attract new members to the club and reassures current members that their club upholds the highest standards of safety, governance, and professionalism. Simone said:
“It’s almost like a badge of honour that we have everything in place at this club and your kids are safe in our hands, your adults are safe in our hands and it’s just a great place to come and do judo.”
Speaking about the club’s recent success Laura Kirkhouse, Club Support Officer, said: “We are very proud of Hamilton Judo Club Inclusion gaining JudoMARK status. It’s testament to the hard work and commitment of the coaches and volunteers at the club.
“JudoMARK has a positive impact not only on club operations but helps to provide clarity, professionalism, and a strong foundation for future success. Their achievement not only benefits the club but also contributes to JudoScotland’s goal of creating safe, welcoming, and thriving judo communities across Scotland.”
To learn more about JudoMARK and to find out how your club can get involved click here.