In Focus: British Judo Coach of the Year Nominees
October 22, 2026
Three inspirational coaches have been shortlisted for the 2026 British Judo Coach of the Year Award, recognising their outstanding dedication to developing judoka, growing participation and making a lasting difference both on and off the mat.
From grassroots participation and community engagement to supporting athletes on the international stage, this year’s finalists demonstrate the incredible impact that coaches have across our sport.
Dr Shaun Davies, John Buchanan and John Ellis have each been recognised for their exceptional commitment to coaching, creating inclusive environments and inspiring the next generation of judoka.
With the winner decided by a public vote, now is your chance to recognise their achievements and have your say!
Dr Shaun Davies – Judo Swansea
Since founding Judo Swansea in 2021, Dr Shaun Davies has helped transform the club into a thriving, inclusive community where recreational participants, adaptive athletes and competitive judoka can develop and succeed.
Balancing his coaching responsibilities with a full-time career and family commitments, Shaun has demonstrated an extraordinary dedication to making judo accessible to people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
His commitment to breaking down barriers is reflected in his involvement in initiatives such as Finding Your Feet, the UsGirls project and disability sport opportunities delivered alongside Disability Sport Wales.
Under Shaun’s leadership, Judo Swansea has experienced significant growth, with athletes competing across the UK and Europe. The club has also received recognition at local sporting awards, including being named Junior Team of the Year in 2025.
Beyond competitive success, Shaun is passionate about creating opportunities for individuals to remain involved in judo through coaching, officiating and volunteering, ensuring that everyone has a pathway to develop within the sport.
His approach places equal importance on personal development, community spirit and sporting achievement, embodying the values that make judo so special.
John Buchanan – Sportif Judo
A former world medallist, John Buchanan has dedicated himself to passing on his knowledge and experience to the next generation of judoka, supporting athletes from their first steps on the mat through to national and international competition.
Renowned for his tireless work ethic, John commits countless hours to coaching, travelling and supporting his athletes, regularly sacrificing evenings and weekends to ensure they have the best possible opportunities to succeed.
His coaching philosophy centres on recognising the individual needs and ambitions of every participant, creating an environment where beginners and experienced international competitors alike feel supported and valued.
Drawing on his own experiences at the highest level of the sport, John combines technical expertise with a person-centred approach, helping athletes develop confidence, resilience and a lifelong passion for judo.
His dedication also extends beyond the dojo, regularly visiting local schools to introduce young people to judo and encourage greater participation in the sport across Scotland.
Through his commitment to inclusivity, athlete development and grassroots engagement, John continues to inspire both the judoka he coaches and the wider judo community.
John Ellis – UEA Judo / Wymondham Judo Club
Affectionately known as ‘Judo John’, John Ellis has become an integral part of the University of East Anglia (UEA) Judo Club, where his enthusiasm, generosity and unwavering support have made a lasting impression on generations of students.
Serving as head coach since 2019, with a one-year break, John has played a pivotal role in the club’s growth, creating a welcoming environment where students can discover judo, develop their abilities and become part of a supportive community.
His dedication goes far beyond delivering coaching sessions. Whether volunteering his weekends to support students at competitions, providing transport or helping individuals overcome injuries, John consistently puts the wellbeing and development of his judoka first.
At this year’s BUCS Championships, his commitment helped UEA field a team of seven competitors, with one judoka securing a bronze medal.
John is equally passionate about developing future coaches, supporting members through coaching qualifications and using his connections across the sport to create additional training, competition and volunteering opportunities.
His involvement with Wymondham Judo Club also provides valuable opportunities for university students to continue their development beyond their regular sessions.
Perhaps most importantly, John’s genuine care for his students has created a strong sense of belonging within the club, ensuring that every member feels valued, supported and encouraged throughout their judo journey.
Each of this year’s three finalists has made an outstanding contribution to judo, demonstrating the passion, commitment and values that make our coaching community so special.
But who will be crowned the 2026 British Judo Coach of the Year? That’s up to you!
Voting closes on Sunday 15th November 2026, with the winners announced shortly afterwards.
Vote for your favourite today and help us celebrate the coaches who make British Judo great!
Cast your vote today!
2026 Awards Finalist Voting
British Judo Association – 2026 Awards Finalist Voting.
