JudoScotland’s Club Support Officers, Sam Ingram and Laura Kirkhouse, were in Clyde to present our Young Coach of the Year, Rebecca Bradley, with her award, Laura said: “Rebecca is essential to the warm and inviting atmosphere that Clyde provides for the kids. From the moment Sam and I walked in, it was clear that Clyde is a club where children can really enjoy their judo and learn a lot about the sport.”
Rebecca, who has been the lead coach for two of Clyde Judo’s three U12 sessions each week since the club re-opened post lockdown, said: “It feels great to win young coach of the year and I am over the moon. I want to say thank you to all the kids at Clyde Judo. It is great to have such an amazing group to teach. I also want to thank all the other coaches at the club especially Susan Wright, Paul Grady and Rebecca Lamb. I wouldn’t be the coach I am today without all your guidance, support and encouragement. My last thank you is to my Mum. You have been my biggest supporter throughout my whole journey in judo and I wouldn’t have achieved this without you”.
Rebecca’s impact extends beyond the confines of the club, as she devotes her time to coaching refugees in North Ayrshire through the Loretta Doyle Judo Foundation, showcasing her commitment to inclusivity and social impact.
Rebecca’s coaching has seen her take taster sessions in schools across Bishopton, Paisley, and Renfrew, where she has successfully introduced numerous young individuals to the world of judo. These taster sessions not only serve as a gateway for children to discover and develop an interest in the sport but also contribute to the club’s continued growth. Rebecca’s proactive approach and positive coaching reflects her passion for sharing the benefits of judo with the wider community, further cementing her role as a valued member within the club and beyond.
Rebecca pioneered and led the Clyde Summer Camp programme, seeing 12 attendees in 2022 and growing it to 29 attendees in 2023, delivering a three day, 36 hour programme on both occasions. She has gone from strength to strength over the last year, undertaking her level 2 course and taking part in the JudoScotland Coaching Academy to continue her own development. She has planned and delivered quality sessions for an U12 group twice a week, including making adaptations and adjustments for one player with cerebral palsy. Rebecca is a shining example of what young people are capable of when they are given the opportunity, support and encouragement