We enrich the lives of the disadvantaged by providing free judo lessons
How do we raise money?
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What do we provide with our free Judo?
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What’s are we up to right now?
Syrian Refugee Families
The Foundation respects cultural requirement and for Syrian refugees introduced to us by North Ayrshire Council, a preference to have female-only coaches for some of the young adult teenage girls who wanted to experience Judo classes. No problem - Loretta Doyle came out of coaching retirement to lead the classes, with superb support from Rebecca Bradley, a UKCC Level II coach of Clyde Judo Club.
Starting on 26 May 2023, 16 weeks later, we were delighted to celebrate with a special event to award all 19 students with their Red Belt, independently graded by Susan Wright, of Clyde Judo who is a also a Director of JudoScotland. There is a 100% take-up rate for those now wanting to progress to Yellow Belt.
Ukrainian Refugee Families
The town of Irvine is home to Ukrainian Refugee families in the care of North Ayrshire Council. In partnership with Irvine Judo Club (Gordon & Nicky Brawley and coaches) we are delivering free judo lessons to 40 kids, young adults and some parents too!
Around 40 people turned up for the first night - we were expecting 25! No one is turned away, and their lessons are spread over three sessions, integrating these "New Scots" into normal classes with the local Community.
Hearing and / or
Visually Impaired
Chris Nicol, who is himself a Deafblind Judoka, trains at Tams Brig Judo Club with coaches Charlie and Michelle Strachan. We have sponsored Chris in his quest to achieve UKCC Level 1 coaching Accreditation, and we are putting together a new programme for six Visually Impaired children and young adults to receive free Judo lessons, supported by a local firm of Opticians. This is targeted to start in January 2024, and will involve Chris joining Charlie and Michelle to be part of the coaching team delivering the free Judo lessons.
The Judo Code of Conduct and Values
Judo extends beyond a mere sport; it cultivates a family atmosphere and becomes a lifestyle choice.
The term "Judo" translates to the "gentle way" in Japanese, capturing its essence. While categorized as a combat sport, Judo uniquely forbids kicking, punching, or striking. Instead, it emphasizes throws and grappling techniques, executed with utmost control to ensure the safety of opponents.
Beyond competitions, Judo fosters a supportive community where practitioners, known as Judoka, develop not only physical skills but also uphold a code of conduct centered on respect, courage, friendship, sincerity, honour, modesty, and self-control.
This holistic approach makes Judo a welcoming environment for individuals seeking personal growth, camaraderie, and a balanced lifestyle.
Courtesy
To be polite to others
Modesty
To be without ego in actions and thoughts
Courage
To face difficulties with bravery
Respect
To appreciate others
Honesty
To be sincere with your thoughts and actions
Self-control
To be in control of your emotions
Honour
To do what is right and to stand by your principles
Friendship
To be a good companion and friend
Who will benefit from the Foundation?
Individuals
How we engage with people?
We normally engage with individuals requesting Free Judo Lessons through organisations and formal or informal Groups who look after them or represent their collective interests. We then put together a bespoke programme to meet that Group's needs.
Who will benefit? Examples:
- Those in poverty.
- People suffering social exclusion by racial or gender discrimination
- Ethnic minorities, migrants, refugees.
- People with mental or physical disabilities.
- Isolated elderly people.
- Exploited and / or abused children, young adults, people
