9 December 2025
Dan promotions at this level represent far more than technical ability or competition results. A 6th Dan recognises decades of commitment to judo, contribution to the wider judo community, and the lasting impact a judoka has on others. John embodies all of these qualities.
In Japanese, the term senpai refers to an older or more experienced student who guides, supports, and inspires those who come after them. For me, John has been the very definition of a senpai.
When I was 15 years old, John took me under his wing. At the time, he was serving in the Army — fearless, intense, and wonderfully unfiltered — while I was a quiet, shy teenager still finding my place in the world. It was an unlikely pairing, and probably a risky one, but it turned into something incredibly important.
Over the years, we have shared a huge part of our lives through judo. When I lacked confidence, John taught me self-belief and the importance of ignoring outside noise. He drilled into me the value of good movement, constantly reminding me (often loudly) that my flappy arms needed fixing.
He supported me all the way to my black belt — even when I did my best to make the journey harder than it needed to be.
Like many long judo friendships, ours has been built on far more than training sessions. We’ve laughed together, cried together, travelled together, and yes — enjoyed more than a few legendary nights out along the way.
John’s judo record and technical knowledge speak for themselves, but what truly sets him apart is his loyalty, guidance, and unwavering support for the people around him. The influence he has had on me personally is inseparable from the foundations of Ultimate Judo as it exists today.
His approach to judo — honest, committed, and people-focused — has shaped generations of judoka in Scotland, whether they realise it or not.
I know just how much this promotion means to John, and I couldn’t be prouder to see him receive it. Achieving 6th Dan is recognition not only of skill, but of character, service, and lifelong dedication to judo.
From senpai and kohai to the very best of friends — congratulations, John MacDonald, and thank you for everything you’ve done for me and for judo in Scotland.
