Market Harborough Judo Club, located in Market Harborough, is dedicated to developing Judo skills and helping individuals build confidence, self-esteem, and valuable life skills through the sport. The club offers classes every Tuesday from 6pm to 8pm and encourages participants to arrive at 5pm to assist with setting up the mats.
Coach Alex Turigel, a level 3 coach and national level referee, brings a wealth of experience to the club. Having started his Judo journey in 1983, he achieved numerous medals throughout his career, including national and international successes. Coach Alex was a member of the Romanian National and Olympic teams and now proudly shares his knowledge and expertise with the members of Market Harborough Judo Club.
Coach Steve Lightbody, who took over the club in 2017, is a dedicated and passionate coach. With a coaching style influenced by his work in a therapeutic community, Steve has seen the club grow beyond his expectations. He holds a black belt in Judo and a blue belt in BJJ (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) and continues to pursue his training and personal development. Steve recently won the British Master and Bronze medal in the World Police and Fire Games and is currently studying to become a yoga teacher.
Assistant Coach Lee Webber is a well-rounded athlete and brings his experience in grappling sports, particularly BJJ and Judo, to the club. With 14 years of experience as a Gym instructor in the Prison Service, Lee holds a brown belt in Judo, a blue belt in BJJ, and is expected to achieve his black belt in the near future. He has also competed in Boxing and MMA.
The club is committed to creating a safe environment for all participants, especially children. Assistant Coach Jon Asprey serves as the Child Protection Officer, ensuring that the club maintains the highest standards of child protection.
The Market Harborough Judo Club is hosted at Harborough Community Church, situated at 121 Bath Street, Market Harborough, LE16 9JL. The club offers classes for all ages above five years old and has recently introduced an induction course for newcomers. The course, held from 5pm to 6pm on Tuesdays, runs for six weeks and serves as a foundation for new starters before joining the regular Tuesday evening class.
Membership fees for the Market Harborough Judo Club are 20 per month for 12 months, payable by standing order or bank transfer. This payment covers 39 two-hour sessions on Tuesday evenings throughout the year and includes grading costs up to brown belt. Club members also benefit from a 50% discount on competition support, access to workshops, guest seminars, and holiday training camps organised by MHJC.
For those interested in purchasing or renewing their judo licence, Market Harborough Judo Club provides a convenient link on their website to complete the process online.