Daniel Fiddes, a dedicated member of Hamilton Judo Club, has been honoured as JudoScotland’s Young Volunteer 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 Volunteer of the Year Award celebrates individuals aged 25 or under who have made an exceptional contribution as a volunteer in a non-coaching role within their club or the wider judo community.
Daniel, who has been with Hamilton Judo Club for six years, has shown remarkable dedication despite living with the sight loss condition nystagmus. As a volunteer in the club’s Disability and ASN sessions, he assists the lead coach in supporting 30 juniors and 15 adults. Daniel’s caring nature makes him a favourite among the children, who eagerly anticipate his help during Thursday evening sessions.
Passionate about expanding his knowledge of working with children with disabilities, Daniel has completed various relevant courses, including JudoScotland’s “Autistic Sports Acceptance Session” and “Coaching a Visually Impaired Athlete,” as well as several modules from Scottish Disability Sport. Beyond his work at the club, Daniel has volunteered with Disability Development Officer Stephen Somerville and participated in RNIB’s “Come and Try” day. He has also been featured in both RNIB and BBC Scotland, helping to promote his work in judo.
Daniel’s commitment to supporting the judo community and his ongoing efforts to develop inclusive programs for individuals with disabilities have earned him this well-deserved recognition.
Hamilton Judo Coach, John Kane, commented “Judo founder Kano said that the ultimate goal of judo is “to perfect yourself and to contribute to society”. The volunteer work that Daniel does as part of Hamilton Judo Club Inclusion is an excellent example of the power of Judo. He has a genuine commitment to help individuals with disabilities and assisted support needs, not just participate but enjoy Judo within the wider community. Sport needs more volunteers like Daniel!”
Laura Kirkhouse of JudoScotland added, ” Daniel consistently goes above and beyond, actively engaging in every opportunity. He builds strong, meaningful connections with young club members and remains deeply committed to contributing to the great work that Hamilton Judo Club does week in and week out. He’s a brilliant example of the positive impact a volunteer can have in the judo community.”
Daniel was presented his award on Thursday 21st of November at his club in Hamilton by JudoScotland Club Development Officer Laura Kirkhouse.