Hawthorn Judo Club is a prestigious sports club located in Melbourne, Australia. With a strong emphasis on all aspects of Judo, the club caters to both junior and senior participants, welcoming individuals of all ages and ability levels.
The junior classes at Hawthorn Judo Club are designed to cater to beginners as well as advanced practitioners, with the youngest member being just four years old. The club focuses on technique and grading, ensuring that students develop a solid foundation in Judo. Additionally, the club's training programme includes competition preparation, allowing members to showcase their skills at various events. Notably, several of the club's members have even represented Victoria at the national level.
Beyond learning Judo techniques, students at Hawthorn Judo Club also delve into the theory behind Judo and gain an understanding of Japanese vocabulary, specifically the names of various techniques. This integrated approach enhances the students' overall understanding and appreciation of Judo as a sport.
The club strongly encourages its members to participate in regular competitions organised by Judo Victoria, fostering a sense of camaraderie and healthy competition among the students. Additionally, Hawthorn Judo Club hosts two in-house competitions to provide their members with even more opportunities to put their skills to the test.
The senior class at Hawthorn Judo Club is inclusive and caters to a wide range of ages and abilities, with their oldest member currently being 75 years old. The club prides itself on creating an environment where everyone works together to help each person reach their full potential.
Led by Head Coach Michelle Matthews, the dedicated team at Hawthorn Judo Club is committed to providing high-quality Judo training in a nurturing and supportive atmosphere. With a belief in the holistic development of each individual, the club aims to instil discipline, self-confidence, and physical fitness in their members.
Training sessions at Hawthorn Judo Club are held on Wednesdays, with junior classes running from 5pm to 6:30pm, followed by senior classes from 6:30pm to 8pm.
For those interested in Judo, Hawthorn Judo Club offers quick links on their website to Judo Victoria, Judo Australia, the International Judo Federation, and the Kodokan Judo Institute, providing access to additional resources and information about the sport.
In a testament to the global reach and popularity of Judo, it is interesting to note that since its introduction in 1964, Judo players from 107 countries have participated in the Olympic Games.
Overall, Hawthorn Judo Club is a thriving and inclusive community that upholds the values and principles of Judo. With a commitment to excellence and a strong focus on both physical and spiritual strength, the club provides a welcoming environment for individuals of all ages to learn and grow in the sport of Judo.