World Judo Day 2022: Inclusion, Uniting the Judo Family

As part of World Judo Day, British Judo are sharing the achievements and stories of those who are driving inclusion forward in the sport of judo.

Nicola Russel recently attended the British Masters where she had the opportunity to get on the mat at her first competition. Nici shared with us her personal story and her experiences so far in the sport of judo.

Focusing on inclusion also means recognising how barriers can be removed, Nici spoke about some of the challenges she faces as a wheelchair user and how certain things could be adapted to offer wider opportunities in the judo community.

When and why did you begin practicing judo?

January 2022 with Tams Brig Judo Club in Ayr. I am now a 6th Kyu.

I am an active wheelchair user. I am a 2nd Dan in Taekwondo and wheel cross country but most of what I achieve is in my wheelchair. Judo allows me a way to get out of my chair, to move as much as I can and build strength and range of movement. Being Autistic I struggle with physical contact, Judo allows me to build up trust (even with just a few people) in a safe environment that is planned and where I know I can always tap out and it will be respected.

To stay active. To have fun. To progress.

What has been your greatest achievement so far in your judo journey?

Being able to stand holding on to my coach Michele, with her help take a step for the first time in years. I will never be able to stand or walk unaided but to even be upright again is a huge achievement for me.

Do you feel that the sport of judo is inclusive?

I think it has great potential to be inclusive, but that depends on coaches and other players being willing to take a step into the unknown. Focusing on what an individual can do, whilst supporting them to develop and progress. Not being afraid of the unknown. Realising that just because someone can’t stand or walk unaided, it doesn’t mean they can’t do Judo. So much can be achieved in groundwork alone.

I think a lot of it also comes down to education and knowing that moves can be adapted. Even moves I can’t physically do I am still shown and taught. I can learn the theory and execution.

I have also qualified as a Timekeeper and I think it is great that the official side of Judo is inclusive to all.

How has your experience at the British Masters impacted you?

It was great to be able to get on the mat in a competition setting for the first time. I was very grateful to the organisers for letting me have mat time, and for the Senior women who happily offered to do extra ne waza fights with me in addition to their own fights.

I also enjoyed the challenge of Timekeeping at the Masters.

It has shown me that once people are educated about adaptive judoka they are usually very supportive.

Is there anything you would like to share with the British Judo community?

Judo for me is about focusing on what I can do, having fun and finding a place where I am accepted just as I am.

Check out the British Judo Diversity and Inclusion strategy here.

Accessible version can be found here.

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