National Teams 2025 – Yorkshire Returns!

Back in February, the area committee made an important decision: to bring Yorkshire back to the National Teams after a few years of absence. This prestigious event is a highlight on the judo calendar, and we wanted to reignite our region’s presence on the national stage.

I was tasked with the goal of getting at least one team together. Thanks to the incredible dedication of several coaches, we exceeded expectations and secured three male teams:

• Pre-Cadet
• Cadet/Junior
• Senior Men’s

As with any major event, planning came with its fair share of ups and downs — a real rollercoaster at times — but every bit of effort was absolutely worth it.

Training and Preparation

We held two key training sessions: one at Pudsey Judo Club (kindly provided free of charge) and another at RI Judo Club in York. These sessions were led by Caroline Brayson and Liam Doody, with support from myself and our chairman, Ben George.

We also wanted the team to look the part, so we worked with Tony Devine to produce team T-shirts. They were a huge hit — top quality, fast turnaround, and really helped unite the squad.

On the Road to Walsall

With teams selected and hotel rooms confirmed, players and parents headed to Walsall on Friday night. After a good night’s rest and a solid breakfast, it was time to head to the venue, weigh in, and face the competition.

My original brief was simple: get a team to the Nationals and put the Yorkshire flag back on the map. But the players and coaches had bigger ambitions — and delivered! We came away with two bronze medals, an incredible achievement and a proud moment for everyone involved.

The Event

Our senior team fought with heart and determination, including a victory over Wales, before meeting some very tough opposition. Though they didn’t medal, their spirit and performance were commendable.

I was honoured to be selected as a referee on the day, giving me a front-row seat to the action. With me on the mats, Ben George stepped in to take some great photos and handle any last-minute issues (barring the odd missing T-shirt!).

Seeing the excitement and pride on the faces of our players — many of whom were experiencing this level of competition for the first time — was truly unforgettable. It made every moment of preparation worthwhile.

Looking Ahead

This event is all about providing our young athletes with the opportunity to compete at the top level and gain invaluable experience. It’s a stepping stone toward greater success, and I’m proud to have played a part in that journey.

Next year, we hope to involve even more coaches and enter additional teams. With the momentum we’ve built, the future of Yorkshire judo at the National Teams is looking bright