Judo champion inducted in park’s Walk of Fame
Judo champion and Athlone resident Michael Keane has become the 19th inductee of the Baw Baw Shire Sporting Walk of Fame.
A formal induction ceremony and plaque unveiling was held on Sunday morning at the Walk of Fame in Civic Park Warragul.
Deputy mayor Cr Peter Kostos officiated the plaque unveiling in front a crowd of Michael’s family and friends.
A 14-time Australian champion in the sport of Judo, Michael has a long list of titles next to his name at both a state and national level and has made a significant contribution to the sport.
In 2000, Michael attained sixth Dan grading, a ranking that has only been achieved by 32 individuals across Australia. He has also trained internationally in Japan, Singapore and Malaysia.
Michael is also a member of the Victorian Judo Grading Committee and was inducted to the Australian Martial Arts Hall of Fame.
With more than 50 years experience, Michael is an accomplished coach, passing on his skills and knowledge to future athletes, including serving as Victoria’s State Coach in 1992.
The Walk of Fame was established along a pathway in Civic Park as part of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Torch Relay celebrations in Warragul.
Michael joins 18 other inductees including some familiar local names such as Lionel Rose for boxing, Kathy Watt for cycling and AFL players Gary Ablett, Peter Knights and Alan Noonan.
To qualify a person must have achieved great success on the elite sporting stage. A person must be of good character and a role model for residents and have resided or have a strong connection to the shire.
Deputy mayor Peter Kostos congratulate Michael for his significant achievements and contributions to the sport of Judo.
Mr Keane thanked council for the honour of being inducted into the Walk of Fame.
“It’s a privilege to be recognised amongst the shire’s champion athletes and be able to mentor the next generation of martial artists right here in Baw Baw at the Dojo Factory,” he said.