Judo club builds skills and confidence at grading day
Young judoka tested their abilities, learned new techniques, and gained valuable competition experience during KJK’s development-focused event.
The KJK Judo Club hosted a successful grading and development day on Saturday, May 16, allowing young judoka to test their skills, learn new techniques, and gain valuable competition experience in a fun and supportive environment.
The club presented two comprehensive workshops aimed at different age groups and belt levels. The first session catered for judoka aged six to nine years, while the second workshop was held for judoka aged 10 years and older.
The day included grading assessments for eligible judoka, instruction in new techniques, and team competitions designed to build confidence and camaraderie among participants.
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According to KJK head coach Katja Bruwer, the event was about far more than simply earning a new belt. She said the day was also to empower older and more advanced Judoka.
“Our senior judoka work under my guidance and learn how to teach judo, referee matches, act as technical officials, and become team leaders. While black belt judoka are also working towards becoming Junior Kyu Grading Masters,” she said.
Bruwer explained that grading assessments at KJK focus primarily on technical ability and attitude.
“For our young judoka, this event also serves as an introduction to participating in competitions in a fun way, without too much stress and pressure. It is all about learning for everyone.”
The club hosts these grading events four times a year, with coaches playing an important role in determining whether school judoka are ready and eligible to participate in both the grading and tournament sections of the programme.
Bruwer said belt progression is an important milestone in any sport and helps motivate young athletes to continue developing.
“After exposure to a grading and a tournament, judoka learn a lot, and their level is automatically raised,” she explained.
She also highlighted the role parents play in supporting the sport and understanding the challenges athletes face on the mat.
“Parents who come to watch their children compete gain a clearer understanding of what judo is, how tough the sport is, and how brave every single person who steps onto the mat to compete actually is.”
