National Inclusion Weekend Celebrates Judo as a Sport for All
February 09, 2026
British Judo’s National Inclusion Weekend delivered an outstanding celebration of what makes judo truly special — its ability to bring people together, regardless of age, background, ability or disability.
With over 100 judoka on the mat, the weekend welcomed participants of all ages, grades and lived experiences, creating an energising and inclusive atmosphere that reflected judo’s core values of respect, courage and friendship.
London 2012 Paralympic medallist Ben Quilter and British Judo Adaptive Lead Kerry Tansey led engaging sessions across the day, showcasing not only their exceptional judo knowledge but also their passion for inclusion, demonstrating first-hand how the sport can be adapted to meet the needs of every judoka while maintaining technical quality and challenge.
Training under the guidance of the pair was a powerful experience for attendees, reinforcing the message that judo offers meaningful pathways and opportunities for all — from grassroots participation to performance on the world stage.
Tansey said: “These National Inclusion days are hugely important to provide opportunities for judoka to thrive in their own environment. These sessions break down the anxieties to attending events and taking on new challenges, so they will have already met lots of people and trained alongside them prior to stepping up and competing at the British Schools Championships. It also ensures they always have a friendly face that they know and can talk to.”
The following day saw the National Training Centre open it’s doors for the second National Adaptive Judo Conference for all of the judo family with this year’s focus around visually impaired athletes – with over 40 coaches keen to expand their experiences.
Passionate guest speakers including the likes of double Paralympic medalist Ian Rose and Paralympic Champion Chris Skelley MBE shared their experience on each of the subjects supporting the coaching within your club, whilst UK Deaf Sport presented about their work across the country, while attendees enjoyed a lunchtime chat with adaptive judoka Isabelle Everest and Patrick Kimber who spoke passionately about their experiences in the sport. Mat-based sessions followed to offer adaptations to be inclusive and technical proficiency for all members within their Judo clubs.
Over the course of the weekend, the European Judo Union (EJU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Deaf International Judo Federation (DIJF) which reflected a shared vision to strengthen collaboration, increase visibility and create sustainable opportunities for deaf judoka across Europe and beyond. The timing couldn’t have proved more apt following our recent announcement that British Judo will be looking to enter a team for the next Deaflympics.
National Inclusion Weekend once again underlined judo’s unique position as a truly inclusive sport for all — one where differences are embraced, barriers are broken down, and everyone is given the opportunity to thrive. British Judo would like to thank all coaches, volunteers and participants who contributed to a memorable and impactful weekend.
