Prestigious prize makes John proud

Judo coach John Buchanan says it’s nice to be recognised within the sport’s community after picking up a prestigious award.

Buchanan, who has classes in Airdrie and Coatbridge amongst other areas, was presented with the Judoscotland Pathway Coach of the Year by the sport’s governing body’s CEO Judith Mccleary at his home club Sportif in Larbert.

The five- time British champion and 2014 Commonwealth Games medallist was recognised for his hard work and dedication to coaching, and said of those within his club: “They’re a real pleasure to work with. “They make my job easier. “It’s nice to be recognised within the judo community, it helps reinforce that you’re doing something right.”

John and his wi f e Clare have meticulously c o - o rd i nat e d t rav e l and accommodation arrangements for trips within the UK, led groups of judoka to various competitions and training camps, both domestically and internationally, providing them with exposure to diverse levels of competition and environments.

Speaking on behalf of Judoscotland, Judith Mccleary said: “Coaches have a huge impact on the lives of those they coach.

“As well as supporting the development of judo skills on the mat, they help judoka to become more independent, confident and resilient – skills that are transferred into lots of other areas.

“We know how much work is undertaken behind the scenes by John and other coaches – booking facilities, goal- setting, session planning and competition preparation are just a few of the other tasks.

“It was a pleasure to present John with the Judoscotland Pathway Coach of the Year award, and to see club members thrive under his guidance and what appears to be endless enthusiasm.”

To learn more about classes in your area, visit judoscotland.com.

Prize guy John Buchanan proudly shows off his Judoscotland Pathway award