Adaptive Judo Day Hailed A Success for NI Judo

Sunday 10^th February was a successful day for the Northern Ireland Judo Federation (NIJF) following Disability Sport NI’s decision to award the organisation with an Inclusive Sport Award.

This is a governing body recognition award for showing commitment to Inclusion within the Sport. The award was presented to Bill Taggart (Chairman) by Disability Sport NI’s (CEO) Kevin O’Neill, at their Adaptive Judo day which was held in St Joseph’s Parish Centre in Antrim.

At the first Adaptive Judo day, twenty one judoka with a disability attended alongside thirteen coaches and six volunteers for a very successful session. The 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, 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.