Marrara Judo Club is a highly respected sports club located in Darwin, Australia. Established in 1988, the club was formed when the Northern Territory Government built the Marrara Indoor Stadium. The head and seniors coach of the RAAF Judo Club took on the role of the head coach, club president, and Judo Federation of Australia (JFA) NT president.
The club prides itself on the development of its members, particularly the junior judoka. One of their esteemed coaches, Sue Gardiner (nee Coyer), has played a significant role in coaching the junior judoka, many of whom have gone on to become successful members of society. Notable dan grades from the junior ranks include Brad and Kelly Fong, Sue Gardiner, Andrew La Porte, Mark Dodt, Shane and Jack Rigby, as well as Darren Bell, Joseph Misfud, Peter Farrow, Mark Sherwood, Karen Pain, and Troy Bailey, who obtained their dan grades while training with the club.
Marrara Judo Club has achieved success in both Junior and Senior Nationals, with numerous medals won over the years. The club has also had representation in Australian teams and international tournaments and training camps.
The club offers training sessions for various age groups and skill levels. For juniors, there are specific classes according to age, ranging from 4 to 13 years old. Adults aged 14 and above have their dedicated training session. Junior classes take place on Monday and Wednesday evenings, while the adult session is held on Monday evenings.
Membership fees are reasonable, with all training fees set at $150. 00 per semester (6 months). Non-members are welcome to join training sessions for a fee of $10 per session, with interstate and intrastate visitors training for free. Additionally, there are charges for judogis (uniforms/suits), which are available for purchase starting at $60.
00 each. Registration to the NT body and insurance is also required, with fees of $105. 00 per year for seniors and $75. 00 per year for juniors.
Marrara Judo Club boasts a team of dedicated and experienced coaches, including Sue Gardiner, Brad Fong, and Craig Leslie. For those in need of a judogi, the club offers new club quality suits starting at $65. 00, with competition suits available by special order.
The judogi, or uniform, is an essential part of practising Judo. Made of heavy-duty cotton, it consists of pants, jacket, and belt. The suit must be either white or slightly off-white. It is recommended not to bleach the judogi as this can reduce its lifespan.
Washing it in hot water for the first time and cold water afterward will help shrink the suit to the wearer's size. Boys are required to wear underpants under the judogi, while girls should wear a white t-shirt with underpants. Short tights/skins are also acceptable.
Marrara Judo Club is committed to providing a high-quality training environment for judoka of all ages and skill levels in Darwin.