Confidence for kids
Children not only gain the physical benefits from judo, they also build their self-confidence, discipline, coordination and personality.
Coventry · Ryton-on-Dunsmore · Since 1957
Judo is more than a sport, it’s a path to building character, resilience, confidence, and lifelong friendships. From your first steps on the mat to competing at an elite level, everyone here grows together.
About the club
Coventry Judo Club has been running since 1957 within the Coventry area. Our dedicated coaches have an abundance of experience and are proud to be able to cater for all levels and offer lessons for children from 5+ ages. Training can be tailored to all individual’s abilities.
From the archive
Training schedule
Whether you're stepping onto the mat for the first time or returning after a break, we would love to have you join us. Pop down on any club night to have a look around.
Times may occasionally change for gradings or events — check announcements or contact us if unsure.
Sports Connexion, Leamington RoadWhy judo
Children not only gain the physical benefits from judo, they also build their self-confidence, discipline, coordination and personality.
For adults, judo is an ideal sport to improve fitness and flexibility whilst helping to improve their overall well-being. It pairs well with sports such as rugby.
Judo, meaning “the gentle way”, is a modern Japanese martial art and Olympic sport. It emphasises technique, balance, leverage, and respect.
Our team
Our coaches are all experienced, insured, trained in safeguarding and follow BJA’s Child Protection & Vulnerable Adults Policies and Procedures.
World Champion, twice Olympic silver medallist and five-time European Senior Champion, with a 15-year run of international podium finishes. Neil continues to develop the sport and train young judoka at an elite level. neiladamsjudo.info →
Joined the club in 1964 aged 11. British Judo Squad 1974–80 and Olympic reservist for Moscow 1980. British Open silver (1978), ten-time Midlands Area Champion and holder of British, All England and All Scotland titles. Coached the Midlands Junior Squad for 19 years, producing four British team titles and national champions including Simon Moss and Paralympic medallist Sam Ingram.
Coventry born and bred, on the mat here since age 5. British Senior Champion 2018 (-60kg) and a European Open silver (Cluj-Napoca 2022) and bronze (Sofia 2023) medallist for Great Britain, plus European Cup bronze in Sarajevo and a Junior European Cup medal. British U15, Cadet and U21 champion along the way, and English Open champion four times. Josh leads junior and senior sessions.
Georgian heavyweight (+100kg) and Veterans World Champion 2017. A British Open bronze medallist (2004, 2009), English Senior Open champion 2013 and 2014, London Senior Open champion 2013 and still winning: gold at the Kent International 2022 and a London Open medal in 2024. Brings Georgian-style gripping and power judo to the club.
Practising judo since 1972, the last 25 years in Coventry. Competed at junior and university level and enjoys the technical side of the sport: a first dan, qualified Club Coach and National C Referee. Served on the BJA Complaints & Conduct Commission and on the BJA Board as an independent non-executive member from 2013 to 2016.
Judo runs in the family. Chloe started at five in Ireland and trained for over ten years, finishing her competitive career representing Ireland on the national team. As Chairman and Welfare Officer she keeps the club safe, welcoming and friendly for every member.
An experienced judoka with decades on the mat, deeply rooted in the Midlands judo community. Known for exceptional technical precision, he is highly regarded across the region as an outstanding uke for high-level practice and official dan gradings. Trained under world-class mentorship, Lee brings an analytical approach to the club, helping players sharpen their throwing accuracy, standardise their form and prepare confidently for competition and grading milestones.
Brings a highly strategic and tactical approach to the coaching team, with a strong emphasis on newaza (groundwork) transitions and submission mechanics. Specialising in linking explosive standing techniques seamlessly into dominant ground control, his training blocks focus heavily on grip fighting (kumi-kata) and breaking opponent tempos. He works closely with the senior squad to cultivate aggressive match-play pacing and resilience on the mat.
Focuses on long-term athlete development, managing the vital transition phase where intermediate and junior squads advance into technical syllabus concepts. His coaching philosophy champions agility, exceptional breakfalls (ukemi), and opportunistic footwork over raw physical strength. Known for his patient and encouraging mentoring style, he excels at building confidence in younger judoka while instilling clean, injury-free foundational habits.
Competition
From first steps to international competitors — all on one mat.
Membership
Just come along to a session that suits your age and experience. All you need is comfortable clothing, enthusiasm, and an interest in learning a great martial art. Train occasionally? Pay as you go — no subscription required.
Coventry Judo Club are members of the British Judo Association. To continue your judo journey you are required to gain your licence from the BJA — it includes insurance, gradings, BJA competitions and retailer discounts.
Step on
the mat.
Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at Sports Connexion, Ryton. Turn up, watch, or try a free session — our coaches will help you pick the right class.
Become a member