The British Judo Association have an exciting new opportunity for young judoka to make an impact in the judo community with the Association’s Junior Leader Panel.

It is very important that everyone’s voices are heard and respected. With a significant proportion of British Judo members being under the age of 18, it is crucial that their views are represented, and developments are made that are inclusive to all. To continue to grow the sport and the judo community, must work together to ensure that judoka of all ages and abilities are represented.

British Judo is now looking for individuals who would like to join the Junior Leader Panel to be the voice for all junior members in the sport.

What is a Junior Leader?

Junior leaders will work to represent the junior members of the judo community, providing junior members the opportunity to make a direct change. Junior Leaders will work closely with Club Welfare Officers to feedback ideas and recommendations to the British Judo Association. Responsibilities may also include attending club meetings and consulting with fellow junior members.

Who can be a Junior Leader?

Every junior member has the chance to be a junior leader! If you are between the ages of 13 and 18, you’re eligible to apply. The aim is to have a panel of individuals from different areas, clubs and backgrounds to represent the diverse judo community of which we’re proud to be part of.

 How do I become a Junior Leader?

We are asking for passionate junior members to send us a short ‘about you’ profile. We want to learn about you, your judo journey and why you think you would make a great junior leader.

Below is an example from our Head of Inclusion, Safeguarding and Wellbeing Sami Smithson.

“I am Sami Smithson, I have been doing judo for over 40 years (don’t be too shocked!). My mum and dad ran the local judo club Bredakwai and I went on to enjoy lots of competitions and travel with a great group of friends across the World. I trained as a coach when I was 16 and enjoyed taking the younger classes under the supervision of adult coaches, this was the start of my coaching journey. I have participated, coached and organised all sorts of things in judo and served for 18 years in the RAF. I am now enjoying working in British Judo and I am passionate about facilitating opportunities so that other people can enjoy the sport we all love.”

If you’re interested in becoming a junior leader, send your profile to Sami Smithson: sami.smithson@britishjudo.org.uk

Watch out for further news from British Judo by checking out our latest news section. You can also catch up via our official social media platforms, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.