Judo

Find out more

• Training

  Training is open to all levels and prioritises safety & teaching techniques such as how to throw & fall with control in a fast-paced setting. Regular training sessions typically start with a 20-minute warmup, followed by either work on technique, competition skills, or randori (sparring), and always conclude with stretching. Morning randori sessions include a short warmup followed by sparring.

  The Judo Club are fortunate to work with Commonwealth Games Bronze medallist and professional coach Karen Cusack once a week, with fully certified student coaches leading the remaining sessions.

  Once students have achieved 2nd kyu (blue belt) they may pursue their first coaching qualification, with courses organised through the club. This is a perfect opportunity for members to give back to the club and hone their own understanding of the techniques. UKCC Level 1 and UKCC Level 2 coaching qualifications are available through the club.

• Competition

  The club competes regularly throughout the season, entering teams in British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) and Scottish Student Sport (SSS) events, and taking part in four friendly league matches against other Scottish universities.

  British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) National Championships
  BUCS Nationals takes place in February each year, and sees over 5,000 student athletes travel to Sheffield to compete across eight sports over three days.

  The Judo Championships see the best students in the country compete individually and as a team to earn BUCS points and be crowned national judo champions. The competition is divided into Dan and Kyu grades and splits across various weight categories.

  The competition is open to members of 4th kyu (orange belt) and above, who train regularly with the club.

  Scottish Student Sport (SSS)
  Kyu Grades Chamionships
  The Kyu Grades Championships is an introductory competition that usually takes place in October, and is open to all novice and kyu grade (non-black belt) players.

  Judo Championships
  The main SSS Judo Championships takes place at the end of January/early February for all levels. For 1st kyu and above, this is an opportunity to score points for dan grades.

  Strathkelvin Judo Open
  A friendly non-university competition, the Strathkelvin Judo Open is the final competition of the year and gives members a chance to compete against other clubs, and with people not necessarily of the same age. It is also points scoring and a great experience for developing your judo.

  Gradings
  Judo has a belt system to denote different levels of experience. The Judo Club offer gradings once a semester. To grade you require a Judo Scotland licence, which is £36 for a year membership. This membership also provides insurance on the mat and allows you to compete.

• Additional Club Information

  The club has an active social scene with Monday pub nights, Saturday breakfast sessions + Wednesday Sinners throughout the year. The Judo club also has strong links to local judo club (Sportif Judo) in St Andrews, and is involved in charity Fundraising for The Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH)

• How to get involved

  Whether you are new to the sport or experienced judo practitioner, already attend the University or if you are thinking about attending, please get in touch to register your interest and find out more about our club.

  The University hosts a Sports Fayre at the beginning of each academic year during Orientation Week, giving prospective players the opportunity to talk to club members and sign up to ‘Give It A Go’ sessions.

  Please email the club to register your interest: [email protected]

  Club Membership

  All matriculated students at the University can join the Judo Club.

  Please visit the Saints Sport website for a full list of club membership options, prices and information on how to purchase your membership.