In the build-up to the Tyne & Wear football derby between Newcastle United and Sunderland that is taking place this Saturday (1 February) both clubs came together at Newburn Activity Centre to take part in a judo festival that was funded by Premier League 4 Sports and Building Bridges.

Approximately 36 girls and boys aged 11-15 years of age took part in various judo activities with the emphasis being on taking part rather than the competition.

Most of the participants only started to compete in judo in September 2013 and now attend a weekly judo satellite club delivered by both Sunderland and Newcastle in their respective areas through the PL4S programme.

Tristan Lawrence who was a member of the Sunderland team said: “I had fun mixing with people from another team and fighting them and the games we played were great.”

Parent Claire Dobbing continued: “My daughter Katie attends Ponteland Middle School and recently got involved in judo when Newcastle United Foundation went into her school.

“She has since joined Newburn Judo Club where Coach Joe Laws has been a great help along with other members of his team.

“The Sunderland and Newcastle Judo event was excellent for all children involved and was a great example of how both clubs can work together.”

Lisa Bell PL4S Coordinator for Newcastle United Foundation added:
“I thought Sunday was a great advert for judo and in particular it demonstrates how sport can bring children all of ages and abilities together.

“It was really nice that both Newcastle and Sunderland came together to compete in such a big week for both football clubs.”

Liz Burdis, Service Manager and National PL4S and Satellite club lead for the British Judo Association, said ” It’s great to see so many children taking part in judo today who have all been involved in the PL4S project.
“The derby match adds to the excitement for many of them taking part.
“Newcastle have built up a very successful Judo programme with Newburn Judo club which take’s alot of work from many volunteers.”