5 November 2025
I remember that day vividly. The nerves in the warm-up area. The pressure I put on myself. The feeling of needing to prove that all the training, all the falls, all the setbacks were worth it. When the grading was done, the sense of pride was overwhelming. My club mates, coaches, and fellow competitors offered their congratulations, each one of them knowing the journey it took to get there. But the moment that stayed with me most was the quiet nod of approval from my dad, watching from the stands. No words needed — just pride.
Fast forward 25 years, and I’m now in the position of coaching students who are stepping up to take on the same challenge. This weekend, I’ll be travelling to Ravenscraig in Motherwell to support some of my own students as they test for their black belts. Watching them prepare has taken me right back to those early days — the anticipation, the expectation, the nerves that come with wanting something you’ve devoted yourself to.
It’s funny how the emotions mirror each other. I’m not the one stepping onto the tatami this time, but I feel the same rush of excitement and nervous pride. I’ve seen the effort they’ve put in. I’ve watched their setbacks, their frustrations, and their breakthroughs. And when the time comes, it will be an honour to tie those black belts around their waists — not just as a symbol of skill, but of perseverance, respect, and growth.
A close friend, Ian Guthrie, once said something that has stuck with me throughout my entire judo journey:
“In Judo, you’re always travelling along a road that never has a final destination — only amazing places to visit along the way.”
That couldn’t be more true. Whether you are a beginner tying your first white belt, a brown belt pushing towards your Dan grade, or a lifelong practitioner coaching others, we are all walking the same road. We’re just at different points on the path.
Judo is more than a martial art. It’s a way of learning how to challenge yourself, how to respect others, and how to get up every time life throws you down — literally and metaphorically. That’s why so many people who train in Judo talk about how it shapes their character outside the dojo as much as inside it.
After 25 years, I still feel the same love for this sport that I did on the day I earned my black belt. Maybe even more. Coaching has shown me that Judo isn’t just about achieving your own goals — it’s also about helping others unlock their potential, build confidence, and find their place in the Judo community.
It’s an incredible thing to witness. And it’s an honour to be a part of.
Here’s to the students stepping up this weekend.
Here’s to everyone on their own journey.
And here’s to the road ahead. ????
I love Judo.
28 October 2025
