About
About Us
The Western Judo Academy dates back to the late 60's when an unknown judo instructor began to teach judo at a small Community Centre called "The Tin Shed" in St Albans, Melbourne. Then, In 1972 a young judo player by the name of Marek Augustynek took over coaching resposibilities and has remained with the club to this day.The club relocated several times over the years, and is currently operating at the Salvation Army Youth Hall, Essendon. Today we have several high ranking coaches working together to maintain the high standards our judo club has always been accustomed to.
The club runs Senior training sessions for men and women on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday, and a Junior session for boys and girls on Saturday (see timetable). The transition age from Junior to Senior training is approx. 13 years of age, however, this is individually determined by the coaches.
Our judo instructors are fully accredited and qualified to coach children and adults of all ages, and the club is affiliated with Judo Victoria Inc. and the Judo Federation of Australia which is the officiall judo authority in Australia recognised by the International Judo Federation and the International Olympic Committee.
We promote a competitive spirit within the club encouraging members to participate in judo competition, however players are not pressured to do so. Priority is placed on personal development, and to learn judo skills at the highest level, in a positive and enjoyable manner.
Gradings (Ranks) are acquired through consistent training and development of skill, knowledge and ability at the required level. Once selected for a promotion members must demonstrate their technical ability and knowledge before being presented with the appropriate grading certificate.