In recent times, the growth and development of the adapted judo scene has been nothing short of encouraging. The European Judo Union prides itself on the motto that judo is more than sport, and with adapted judo, we delve in much further than high performance.
The effect judo has on most is transformative, and in the case of judoka we have spoken to in the Get Together events as well as the inaugural Open European Intellectually Impaired Championships in November, judo has acted as a doorway for both the athletes and the families.
In 2024, Great Britain hosted an EJU Get Together Tournament in Swansea, with great management and participation, and will continue with their work in adapted judo in February. On the 8th of February, the National Training Centre in Walsall will host a National Adaptive Training Day, coaches are welcome to come and support the adaptive judoka learning, engaging and participating throughout the day, and will be a licenced Coach Education / Revalidation course.
With all levels welcome, from beginner to champions, the day will cover all abilities; SEN, Sensory, Physical, Learning and Mental.
The following day, an Adaptive Judo Conference will be held for all of the judo family; coaches, players, referees, technical officials and parents, identifying the two most common neurodiverse impairments within the BJA clubs; ADHD and autism. Guest speakers including Rowan KINSELLA will share their experience on each of the subjects supporting the coaching within the clubs. Mat based sessions will also be held, offering adaptations to be inclusive as well as technical proficiency for all members within judo clubs, these sessions will be taken by Kerry TANSEY who has also been instrumental in the development of the Get Together Tournaments and adapted judo within the EJU.
Author: Thea Cowen