It was with great sadness that we heard of the death of Simon Hicks a good friend and a true Judoka.

We have known Simon for nearly all his life from the time when he used to come down to the British Schools Judo Associations Conference’s at Woolacombe with his mom and dad, Anne and Jerry and sister Kim. We have seen Simon grow up from a young judo player into a very successful businessman. From an early age Simon has always been very enthusiastic, innovated, and full of ideas, which he was never afraid to put to the test.

Simon was a very dedicated person, loyal and devoted to judo at all levels, especially the BSJA to whom he offered his services and became general secretary. In this position he gave a great deal of time and effort to the national committee. He held this post for a number of years and was a very successful organiser who always aimed high in his handling of affairs; in fact he was one of the flames that kept the fire burning brightly for the BSJA over a long period of time. He set a high standard at courtesy, etiquette and respect; he was also a good role model for others to follow. All the officers who worked with Simon on the national committee of the BSJA always held him in the highest of esteem.

We have travelled to many foreign countries with Simon on BSJA international events, and including the judo we shared some very good experiences that will last in the memories of all, including the competitors that took part in these various events. We are sure these fond memories we will be savoured forever, for Simon was very light hearted and he enjoyed being in company at any level and was always ready for a good laugh.

We consider that Simon was in the forefront with the sport of judo as he initiated so many judo incentives and he was always looking for new ways to promote the sport. We can remember the final of the European Judo Competition at the NIA in Birmingham when the lighting on the evening was a delight to see as it gave a splendid atmosphere to the arena, it was unbelievable, and we believe that this again was one of Simon’s ideas. We could go on and on, mentioning things like the Fighting Films contribution, Judo on Euro-sport etc, for Simon was always there marketing judo. Everywhere Simon has travelled he has always been promoting the sport and has been an excellent ambassador for the United Kingdom in helping to put and keep judo on the map throughout the world.

Having been in judo for over 50 years we feel that we have been extremely fortunate in having had the opportunity of meeting and working with many of the top judo personnel and would like to add that we consider Simon to be one of this group of people.

To conclude we would like to say that judo has lost a very strong and ardent leader who will be sadly missed by all who knew him, however we will always remember him as a very good friend and colleague who is leaving behind an excellent standard of judo memorabilia along with all the benefits that he has developed for all the people involved in judo and sport as a whole.

In our opinion if anyone has earned the rights and deserves to be in the hall of fame for judo, Simon is a first class candidate.

Sayonara Simon God is with you.

Chairman Malcolm Collins

President Ken Webber