Following his Commonwealth Games success, Westcroft Judo welcomed Jamal Petgrave back to his home club for an inspirational afternoon of judo.

Jamal delivered fantastic masterclasses to the club’s current judoka, catering to all ages, from age 5 through to adult. The classes were very well received, with all having fun whilst learning. The children loved the opportunity of throwing and in turn being thrown by Jamal, along with the added bonus of seeing and trying on his iconic Commonwealth Gold medal.

Petgrave found his love for the sport 21 years ago, along with his brother Samuel at Westcroft Judo. He began competing aged 8 and progressed through the system. Following his sixth form year, Jamal relocated to the Olympic Training Centre in Walsall and enrolled at Coventry University where he completed his degree. Throughout his time training at Westcroft Judo, Jamal enjoyed enormous success, winning multiple British Championships, European Cup Medals and was also selected to represent GBR at the European Youth Olympics and European Championships.

 

 

Although Jamal is now based at the Olympic Training Centre, he enjoys returning to his home club whenever he can to engage and inspire young judoka, commenting:

“It was good to go back to Westcroft Judo Club because it’s my childhood club and I still represent the club today. It was where I started my judo journey. So it was good giving the young judoka something to aspire to and to also see old friends as well”

 

 

Jamal’s rise to Commonwealth Champion inspires many, but particularly those from his home club who are incredibly proud of him. James, a young judoka at Westcroft Judo shared his story with us, explaining how Jamal’s success has impacted and inspired him.

“I have been doing judo since I was ten years old, I am now 17 and thought getting a black belt is probably the best I would be able to achieve. I competed in small competitions and won a few medals. I was able to go to the commonwealth judo games in Coventry and was really happy to see Jamal Petgrave a member of our Judo club winning a gold medal.

This has inspired and enthused me to up my game, train harder and follow in his footstep.

Jamal comes to the club to mentor and train with us as often as he can. He recently did a master class training session. This class was for all ages and was very well attended. I follow Jamal on social media and get tips and encouragement from him of how to improve my throws. I send him videos of throws he taught us, and he would always reply with good tips.

It was really good to see him taking the time and energy to mentor, inspire and encourage us.”

 

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