27 August 2025
There are weekends that pass quietly, folded into routine. And there are weekends that stand out forever — where friendships are forged, cultures connect, and the true spirit of judo shines brighter than sport itself.
This was one of those weekends.
From Takahama, Japan to Aberdeen, Scotland, two clubs and two cultures came together. Oceans apart, yet united by a language that needs no translation — not English, not Japanese, but judo.
On the tatami, there were no barriers. Randori became a conversation of movement and respect — every throw a sentence, every fall answered with a grin. The power of judo was there in every bow, in every contest, and in every drop of sweat that bound the children together.
“When I bowed, I felt like I wasn’t just meeting an opponent — I was meeting a friend.”
“They threw me hard, but then they smiled and helped me up. That’s when I understood what judo really means.”
The coaches also shared their philosophies. Sensei Morita, with his deep knowledge of both judo and primary teaching, offered insights that inspired. In return, Gordon and Stuart shared perspectives from Scotland. What unfolded was more than coaching — it was collaboration and cultural exchange through judo, leaving everyone richer in spirit.
Then came the piper — Scotland expressed in a single sound. History in his notes, pride in his stance, humour in letting the children try. The results may have sounded more like a strangled goose than a stirring battle cry, but the laughter was universal. Music, like judo, needs no translation.
“I’d never heard bagpipes before. It felt like Scotland was singing just for us.”
The children walked together to Dunnottar Castle, Scotland’s cliffs and stone walls rising proudly against the North Sea. Sunshine replaced the expected rain, and the golden coastline became part of the welcome. Scotland revealed itself at its very best.
“Standing at the castle, I thought — I can’t believe I’m really here, with new friends from the other side of the world.”
Later, around the table at the Ashvale, fish suppers spoke louder than words. Salt, vinegar, and laughter became the common language. When tokens and gifts were exchanged — badges, sweets, and cultural treasures — something deeper was given too: the feeling of being part of one another’s story.
“When we swapped gifts, it felt like we were giving each other a piece of home.”
“I don’t just have new friends now — I have friends in another country.”
This weekend was never just about training. It was about people, friendship, and the judo spirit. About the hand that grips your sleeve and the same hand that helps you up. About castles, meals, music — and the sense that judo is connection, not just competition.
Our journey began with Takahama in 2023. We will go again in 2026. And between those milestones, this friendship will grow stronger — nourished by shared memories, respect, and the belief that Ultimate Judo is about collaboration, cultural exchange, and the friendships that last a lifetime.
From Takahama to Aberdeen, across continents and cultures, the bond is cemented. This was not the end, but another step forward. Proof that the power of judo is not only in how we fall, but in how we come together.
“I can’t wait until April, when we can welcome our Scottish friends to Japan — this time I’ll get to share myculture with them.”
