Team Wales Announces Performance Team for Commonwealth Games
April 21, 2026
The Welsh Judo Association (WJA) is delighted to announce its coaching team for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, as preparations enter a pivotal phase ahead of the games.
Natalie Powell will lead Wales’ Commonwealth Games programme in a dual Performance Coach and Team Manager role, supported by newly appointed Performance Support, Darren Warner.
“In the short time Natalie has been in post, her passion and commitment towards creating a positive environment for our athletes has been evident,” said WJA Chief Executive Officer, Ben Jeffreys.
“Natalie has a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level of our sport and has set high standards, doing so with integrity and humility. We are proud to have Natalie leading Wales into Glasgow 2026 and are committed to creating the best possible environment for our athletes at this pivotal time in our preparations.”
Powell has been part of Welsh Judo for more than 25 years, beginning her journey at Irfon Judo Club before progressing through the performance pathway to become one of Wales’ most decorated international athletes. She spent over a decade competing on the IJF World Tour, represented Great Britain at two Olympic Games, and achieved historic milestones for the Judo in Wales – including reaching World No.1 and claiming medals at both World Championship and Commonwealth Games level.
On leading Wales into the Commonwealth Games, Natalie said: “I am incredibly proud to have the opportunity to work with the Welsh Team as we build towards the Commonwealth Games this summer. This group has been progressing really well, stepping up in all the right areas. We have got a young squad full of talent, energy and belief and I am genuinely excited to see them rise to the challenge in Glasgow.”
The WJA is also pleased to confirm that Darren Warner has been appointed to the role of Performance Support for the Commonwealth Games. A former Great Britain Performance Coach and Performance Analyst, Warner brings a wealth of Olympic and Commonwealth Games-level experience, with Glasgow 2026 marking the third Commonwealth Games he has been part of the performance team.
He has a proven track record of working with World and Olympic medallists, including Powell, and combines this elite-level expertise with an in-depth understanding of the WJA, having previously served as the association’s Chief Executive Officer for eight years.
Warner will support Powell throughout the preparation phase and during the Games themselves. It is hoped that their proven working relationship, alongside the positive synergy he brings, will further strengthen what is already an exciting and talented group of athletes. His interim role will run through to the conclusion of Glasgow 2026.
