British Judo are making active steps to increase the positivity that our sport can bring.  Working in partnership with the Events team, Schools and Inclusion (Special Needs Working group) commissions, we included the first Special Needs Schools competition into this year’s annual event.

Increasing participation from previous years to 47 athletes saw the competitors giving it their best with the support from their families and coaches to achieve their medal successes – and all with a smile and a hug.

The referees played an important role on the day in ensuring that they had a good, safe experience during their contests at such a big and challenging event.

Andy Scott (SN Tournament Director, Competition Commission member) paired the athletes according to their ability levels exceptionally and all athletes competed from various positions, depending on their disability – VI, gripped up, Wheelchair dependant – Kneeling amongst others.

Kerry Tansey, BJA Disability Lead said “I’m so in awe of everyone’s courage, determination and love for our sport.  Their smiles when they finish each contest is priceless.  At times throughout the day, you could see parents and coaches from around the hall observing the determination to achieve a medal. 

From this event, we can only encourage and promote to increase numbers at events for Inclusive Judo.

A massive thank you to all the parents and coaches for their patience in working through this 1^st Inclusive Championships for the British Schools Competition and we can with your support, improve, grow and develop their experiences.”

Next event – SN British Open – Stoke Mandeville, 26^th August 2017  details to follow and will be able to be downloaded from the BJA events web page soon.

Athletes from GB, Holland, Romania, Germany, Switzerland & Sweden attended last year and hope to attend again this year.

For more information you can access information on competition levels please visit click here