A brief update from the JudoScotland Chair Marc Preston on activity in December.
As 2025 comes to a close, I’m delighted to announce that Judo Scotland’s membership of 9,300 is at an all-time high. I would like to thank everyone involved – staff, clubs, coaches, volunteers and members – for this amazing achievement, which really confirms the adage that sticking together makes us stronger!
The month started off on the 4th of December when I was involved in the Scottish Governing Bodies Chair Network. This involves Chairs across a wide variety of sports with the opportunity to debate what is relevant and topical across sports in Scotland. I started off with a short presentation about how JudoScotland is rolling out Three Steps Safe in 2026. We’ve struck up an excellent relationship with Scottish Gymnastics, and I would like to thank Brian Ewing (Chair) and Doc McKelvey, (CEO) for their valuable input in helping JudoScotland on our journey.
On 9th December we had our final Board Meeting. Instead of being at Ratho, it was held at our partners Lost Shore Surf Resort where we finished off with a meal and a social catch up with the team.
On 15th I was again involved with the British Judo Board in the morning – an online session. And, in the evening I was at the Scottish Sports Awards in Glasgow to represent JudoScotland with Tony Penfold and Richard Marsh. I’d like to congratulate John D’Ambrosio of Hamilton Judo Club Inclusion for winning the Disability Coach of the Year Award! I have known John for many years; he was a fine Scottish competitor! Well done John on the tremendous work you and Hamilton Judo Club Inclusion are doing, and good to catch up!
On the 18th myself, Judith, Andrew Scoular (BJA CEO) and Gerry Gaultieri (BJA Chair) had an online catch up. The topic was about making sure we are aligned going forward into 2026, and part of that was again, discussing both organisations and Three Steps Safe.
A huge congratulations to the all the Scottish competitors at the recent British Championships where we took a phenomenal number of medals. We are extremely proud of you all!
And finally, I’d like to wish everyone a Happy New Year. We’re looking forward to a bumper year in 2026 for JudoScotland!
Marc Preston, 7th Dan