Sunday 10th February was a successful day for the NI Judo Federation. Disability Sport NI awarded the NI Judo Federation with the Inclusive Sport Award. This is a governing body recognition award for showing commitment to Inclusion within the Sport. This was presented to Bill Taggart (Chairman) by Disability Sport NI’s (CEO) Kevin O’Neill, at our Adaptive Judo day which was held in St Joseph’s Parish Centre in Antrim.
At the first Adaptive Judo day twenty one Judoka’s with a disability attended alongside thirteen coaches and six volunteers for a very successful session. This day was open to any player over eight years old who had a physical, learning or sensory disability and was involved in judo. Various clubs were represented which allowed the networking of coaches and players to take place. Mark Spence (Ican Judo Club) led the fun and technical session with other top coaches interacting as well. These included; Jim Toland, Richard Briggs, Mark Harris, Mark Woodall, Gareth Armstrong, John Marshall, Michael McMillan and Conor Boyce. Assistance on the day was also received from Danny Nolan, Ellen Nolan, and Lisa Bradley. Thank you to everyone. Parents also observed the session while finding time to connect.
At the end of the session the ‘Martin Sloane Endeavour Award’ was presented to Patrick Doherty-Clay (St. Columb’s Park JC) for his commitment and attitude in the session. This was an attributing fit for the Late Martin Sloane who would have been so proud of the session and players.
You can see from the pictures below that everyone enjoyed the sessions and are looking forward to our next Adaptive day which will be held in L’Derry on Sunday 5th May. If any players with a disability or any coaches would like to sign up for the next session please contact Vicki Kennedy on cwo@www.nijudo.com to register.