Welcome to the Worcestershire County Judo Website.

The British Judo Association, the governing body for judo in the UK , is strongly represented in Worcestershire by eight clubs. In 2003 the Midland Area held an election, with one vote per club, for the position of County Coach (previously an Area appointment) and I was elected for a three year term, and was re-elected this year. My job description (I should point out that the job is unpaid) involves a number of responsibilities, but broadly speaking the task is to encourage judo in the county, supporting the clubs and players and helping people both to start and to progress in the sport.

For those who are interested in starting judo - and it is an enjoyable and rewarding sport where you can meet new friends, keep fit and have fun as well as achieve many things – this website contains details of all the county's BJA clubs. The British Judo Association ensures that coaches are qualified, competent and suitable persons. Look down the list to see which club might suit you. Some clubs are larger than others, some have seniors and juniors whilst others are for juniors only, some cater for parents and older players. Some are more and some less active in competitive and/or technical judo. I am sure that all clubs will welcome enquiries. Make a call, then go and have a look to see what it's all about!

Judo is a sport for all ages and all types. Because there is only one main style of judo, we have a single governing body (The British Judo Association) and therefore good basic standards of safety and coaching can be expected at all BJA clubs. Also, unlike many martial arts, judo is run almost entirely by volunteers and so the sport is much more affordable – you will not get ‘ripped off' in judo. Because judo is in the Olympics, there is a strong, well regulated, healthy competition structure for those players who wish to go down that road. This isn't just for players who want to be internationals, but at all levels of competitive ability and ambition, including those who only ever want to do small local events. We are also fortunate that a lot of such small local events go on in Worcestershire – click on the calendar icon for details. There is also a well structured national grading scheme and clear progress paths for those wishing to be referees, table officials and coaches. Worcestershire, incidentally, hosts both the Midlands Competition Officials courses and the Midland Junior Referees courses.

If you don't currently do judo, come and have a go!

If you do judo, there is a lot going on in your county, so see you soon at one of our activities!