Gordon Brawley, co-founder of Irvine Judo Club, was presented with the JudoScotland ‘Volunteer of the Year’ after having been named the 2024 winner in recognition of his unwavering dedication to the club and the wider community.
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.
Since helping to establish Irvine Judo in 2010 alongside his brother William and friend David Frew, Gordon has played a pivotal role in transforming the club from a modest group of 25 members in a local community hall into a thriving hub at Parterre Hall in Central Irvine. His leadership and vision have helped the club flourish, both on and off the mat.
Gordon’s contributions extend far beyond coaching. A retired chartered construction manager, he spearheaded the club’s renovation efforts, turning a deteriorating space into a state-of-the-art dojo. “When I first came into the club it was just four walls, there was paint flaking off, water and dampness,” he recalled. “I did a design for the first phase and presented it to the council. I was then able to get funding through sportscotland, and we built it. But I always had an ambition to extend the dojo, to create a gym and new toilets.”
The recent expansion has allowed the club to better serve its members. “The new dojo means we can split the groups by age, because they learn a bit differently. It allows us to prepare the older juniors for joining the senior class, allowing them to transition. It allows for more coaches on the mat,” Gordon explained.
Over the years, Gordon has mentored six senior players through their Level 1 and 2 coaching qualifications and helped over 500 children and adults progress in their judo journey, many achieving black belts and competing at regional, national, and European levels.
His commitment to community is equally impressive. Gordon has led initiatives to welcome young refugees, hosted donation drives for local care homes, and introduced inclusive and girls-only classes. Under his guidance, the club has raised thousands of pounds for local charities supporting the elderly, children and those with disabilities.
“These are the things that motivate me,” Gordon said. “We devote a lot of time to local charity, elderly, children and those with disabilities. Over the past few years we have donated thousands.”
Reflecting on the recognition, Gordon shared, “Although volunteering can go unnoticed, it can be rewarding.” His humility and tireless efforts have not only built a stronger club but also a stronger community.
Gordon was presented his award at Irvine Judo Club by JudoScotland by Lead Wellbeing and Protection Officer Luke Struthers.