East Yorkshire Judo Academy recently had five of their players representing England at the Commonwealth Judo Championships.
The club would have been proud to have one player there. However, to have five players competing is a testament to the dedication of all the players within the club and also the abilities of the coaching staff to train athletes to such a high standard.
The first 3 days of the competition saw the visually impaired athletes, Seniors and Masters fighting.
On the fourth day, it was the turn of the Pre-cadets, this group is for players under the age of 14. Madeleine Kissenisky (13) and Eleanor Buckle (13) both fought in this age band and had great success showing off their judo skills in front of a sell-out crowd. Both girls fought hard holding their own in a number of fights against very tough opposition.
Day 5 was the turn of the cadets (under 18’s). First up was Tommy Jackson (14) and after a close fight with an Indian player in the first round which Tommy lost to, he came back fighting hard in the repechage.
Clubs Players Perform Well Representing Country
Tommy won a series of fights displaying great determination against players of extremely high quality.
In his 5th fight, Tommy was against one of his England squad teammates and after a long fight which went deep into a golden score (extra time where the first score wins).
Tommy lost out on this occasion. He finished the Commonwealth Championships in a very respectable 7th place and shows a lot of potential for future high-level competition.
Logan Campbell (17) was next and did not disappoint. Logan fought with a style and confidence that showed off his very rounded skills. His attacks were well-timed and varied and he sailed through the preliminary rounds.
Without a loss in the heats, he went on to win the semi-final and book his place in the finals which took place after all other competition had ended.
Sean Tooby (17) was the 3rd EYJA player to take to the mat and he was in a confident mood.
East Yorkshire Judo Academy Players Reach Semi-Finals
Sean, like Logan, made quick work of the preliminary rounds reaching the semi-final. With a perfectly timed foot sweep, Sean landed his opponent flat on their back winning the semi-final and earning his place in the final block.
When the finals took place both Logan and Sean came onto the mat taking the fight to their opponents. They dominated early in the fights but unfortunately were unable to stop two very high-class opponents.
Sean and Logan both left the venue with a Silver medal from the Commonwealth Championships. Both teammates and also coaches are extremely proud of their achievements.
East Yorkshire Judo Academy is delighted with the outstanding efforts by all five of its’ players. The club is now looking forward to more of their players coming through the ranks to represent their country.
If you’d like to try judo East Yorkshire Judo Academy cater for all levels of player from recreational to national level.
