As you all may have guessed by now, from previous posts, I am no longer the spring chicken that I used to be. With a variety of injuries coming in various forms, and taking longer to recover each time, it's become a serious hamper to my aspirations of achieving my Dan grade.
This time, luckily, it wasn't Judo related so I could get away with it at work and with the wife.
I made the judgemental error of bending over in the garden to pick something up off the floor, and 'bang' my legs went from underneath me.
It subsequently transpired that I had bulged a disc in my lower back which in turn had pressed against the nerves etc.
This left me in a state of pain, I can honestly say I haven't experienced before. After a week of laying in bed unable to move, on a diet of morphine and diazepam, I finally managed to get taken to the Chiropractors, who after several (expensive) visits, have got me moving again.
I don't envisage much Judo over the next couple of weeks, as I still have to be careful about picking things up or turning awkwardly. Hopefully I can return to light training soon.
When I did manage to visit the club last Wednesday, there was a 'Get Well Soon' card waiting for me signed by several members.
I was extremely pleased to receive this, at a time when I was starting to feel quite down about the whole affair, it managed to lift my spirits.
I would therefore like to take the opportunity to thank both the club and all of the members who took time to write in the card, it was very much appreciated.
Hopefully I will be back on the mat soon.
Thursday 8 August 2013
Georges Black belt
A big congratulations to George who has succeeded in attaining his Dan grade.
I'm sure that everyone in the club, is extremely pleased for George, who has worked very hard for it.
Great to see all of the hard work paying off for him.
I'm sure that everyone in the club, is extremely pleased for George, who has worked very hard for it.
Great to see all of the hard work paying off for him.
Winton Carnival
Just a short post to say that Winton Carnival was another great day for the club with a lot of support from the youngsters.
A big thanks to all who attended, and helped support and promote the club in this way.
I will get some photos up, I promise!
A big thanks to all who attended, and helped support and promote the club in this way.
I will get some photos up, I promise!
Wednesday 26 June 2013
Winton Carnival
It's that time again. Winton Carnival in which Nokemono will be appearing again this year.
I will keep you posted as to how it goes, and hopefully I will have some photos of both the carnival and the demonstrations we will be giving.
Lets hope for nice weather, and I look forward to seeing you there.
p.s. It is 29th June starting at 10.15 at Sainsburys in Winton. Please attend and help support the club.
I will keep you posted as to how it goes, and hopefully I will have some photos of both the carnival and the demonstrations we will be giving.
Lets hope for nice weather, and I look forward to seeing you there.
p.s. It is 29th June starting at 10.15 at Sainsburys in Winton. Please attend and help support the club.
Hi again
Hello again,
Sorry for taking so long between posts, but it has been a hectic year. Work has gone mental and I have had a few family issues to deal with so I can only apologise for my absence.
Personal judo wise, I have attained my Brown belt and really should be competing for my Dan grade. Got to say however that not only am I a little nervous of this, but I am a little worried about my fitness levels.
Because I have been so busy my attendance at class hasn't been brilliant. When I can train again at least twice a week, I will start attending gradings and I will let you know how it goes.
On a very positive note, I would like to congratulate Nokemono Judokwai and all of those volunteers who have given up time and energy in the running of the club. The reason for this congratulation, is that the club has just been awarded 'The Queens Award for Volunteers'. In effect an MBE for the club. Great news for all and nice to be recognised in such a way.
A big thanks to Emma for nominating the club in the first place.
If you want any further information on this please visit http://www.nokemono-judo.co.uk
Hopefully it wont be so long this time, until the next post.
Speak soon
Sorry for taking so long between posts, but it has been a hectic year. Work has gone mental and I have had a few family issues to deal with so I can only apologise for my absence.
Personal judo wise, I have attained my Brown belt and really should be competing for my Dan grade. Got to say however that not only am I a little nervous of this, but I am a little worried about my fitness levels.
Because I have been so busy my attendance at class hasn't been brilliant. When I can train again at least twice a week, I will start attending gradings and I will let you know how it goes.
On a very positive note, I would like to congratulate Nokemono Judokwai and all of those volunteers who have given up time and energy in the running of the club. The reason for this congratulation, is that the club has just been awarded 'The Queens Award for Volunteers'. In effect an MBE for the club. Great news for all and nice to be recognised in such a way.
A big thanks to Emma for nominating the club in the first place.
If you want any further information on this please visit http://www.nokemono-judo.co.uk
Hopefully it wont be so long this time, until the next post.
Speak soon
Tuesday 19 March 2013
Referee practical exam
Follwoing my earlier attendance at the BJA referees course, I had to complete a 'practical' exam.
My practical was refereeing at the Hampshire Closed on the 16th March. It's a bit of a 'baptism of fire' as you are literally, dropped in the deep end and referee in a live competition.
The juniors seem fine, even when you make an odd mistake its ok! The seniors are a different ball game, especailly the ones who are 'professional' competitors. The ones that have to win by any cost, or have to slightly bend the rules as often as possible in order to gain an edge.
With the support of several of the existing referee's I passed my practical, and I owe them thanks for helping me out during the day.
What I can definately say, is next time you compete, spare a couple of thoughts for the ref. Firstly he is human, and will make mistakes. Secondly he is probably a judoka himself and knows what he is talking about, and finally, not only are the competitors putting him under pressure, but also the pushy parents and loud coaches from the side. (you know who you are!)
Everyone has their opinion of the decisions made, but at the end of the day it is down to the referee.
My practical was refereeing at the Hampshire Closed on the 16th March. It's a bit of a 'baptism of fire' as you are literally, dropped in the deep end and referee in a live competition.
The juniors seem fine, even when you make an odd mistake its ok! The seniors are a different ball game, especailly the ones who are 'professional' competitors. The ones that have to win by any cost, or have to slightly bend the rules as often as possible in order to gain an edge.
With the support of several of the existing referee's I passed my practical, and I owe them thanks for helping me out during the day.
What I can definately say, is next time you compete, spare a couple of thoughts for the ref. Firstly he is human, and will make mistakes. Secondly he is probably a judoka himself and knows what he is talking about, and finally, not only are the competitors putting him under pressure, but also the pushy parents and loud coaches from the side. (you know who you are!)
Everyone has their opinion of the decisions made, but at the end of the day it is down to the referee.
Nokemono Rumble
The 2nd Nokemono rumble was held on the 17th March, and another good day was had by all.
Congratulations to all of those that competed, regardless of results. It was nice to see so many people attending, and especially nice to see so many of the juniors compete.
The idea of these competitions is to get the club ready to hold, larger, regional style competitions, but at the moment, with it being just the Judoka from the club, it is a great opportunity, to gain an understanding of competition judo, and how they are conducted.
Unfortunately due to the juniors competing, I cannot post any photos here, but if you wish to see any, then please browse to the Nokemono website/facebook page, where I'm sure several photos will be posted.
Once again, a big thanks to all of the competitors, and a big thanks to everyone who helped in order for the day to happen.
Congratulations to all of those that competed, regardless of results. It was nice to see so many people attending, and especially nice to see so many of the juniors compete.
The idea of these competitions is to get the club ready to hold, larger, regional style competitions, but at the moment, with it being just the Judoka from the club, it is a great opportunity, to gain an understanding of competition judo, and how they are conducted.
Unfortunately due to the juniors competing, I cannot post any photos here, but if you wish to see any, then please browse to the Nokemono website/facebook page, where I'm sure several photos will be posted.
Once again, a big thanks to all of the competitors, and a big thanks to everyone who helped in order for the day to happen.
1st Kyu
Finally, I have achieved my 1st Kyu. A moment of great satisfaction. Now all I have to do is fight sufficiently well, to justify it in my head.
A big thanks to my sensei and all of the other teachers down the club for getting me this far, despite the various injuries along the way.
Got to try and get better now, as I want to go for Dan grade points soon, so it looks like I had better up my Judo standard.
Obviously as I go for points sessions, I will let you know how it progresses, although I've got a funny feeling, that it will not simply consist of completing my line up!
Two fights, maybe, three in a row, but five. We will have to see.
A big thanks to my sensei and all of the other teachers down the club for getting me this far, despite the various injuries along the way.
Got to try and get better now, as I want to go for Dan grade points soon, so it looks like I had better up my Judo standard.
Obviously as I go for points sessions, I will let you know how it progresses, although I've got a funny feeling, that it will not simply consist of completing my line up!
Two fights, maybe, three in a row, but five. We will have to see.
BJA Referee course
I attended the BJA referees' course on the 2nd March at AWE Judo club, Aldermaston.
Along with two other seniors and several juniors, the course was run for all levels of referee. It was a good day and I thoroughly recommend doing the course, to anyone who competes or is interested in Judo competition.
Even if you do not wish to become a 'long term' referee it is excellent for explaining the rules, that everyone should know.
The course was taught by an International level referee, and contained something for everyone, at the end of the day a theory test was given, which consisted of multiple choice questions and answers. Different questions were for different referees', as a senior, mine were intended for the BJA Area referee award, but juniors completed various levels of junior referee.
I can honestly say, that for £7 I recommend this course for all, and it gives you another aspect to your Judo.
Along with two other seniors and several juniors, the course was run for all levels of referee. It was a good day and I thoroughly recommend doing the course, to anyone who competes or is interested in Judo competition.
Even if you do not wish to become a 'long term' referee it is excellent for explaining the rules, that everyone should know.
The course was taught by an International level referee, and contained something for everyone, at the end of the day a theory test was given, which consisted of multiple choice questions and answers. Different questions were for different referees', as a senior, mine were intended for the BJA Area referee award, but juniors completed various levels of junior referee.
I can honestly say, that for £7 I recommend this course for all, and it gives you another aspect to your Judo.
Monday 18 February 2013
Christmas recognition
For those of you who couldn't make it to the belated Christmas party, the awards given out were as follows:
Thanks again to all who attended!
Certificate of
Thanks
Samantha Scott
Graham Savill
Certificate of
nokémono knockout
Wayne Nennstiel
Stuart Milburn
Rhiannon Lawrence
Certificate for the
best newcomer
Edlina
Finn Johnson
Mike Clayton
Certificate for
most Improvement
Brad Way
Mark Collins
Chloe Hughes
Courtney Way
Certificate for
Most supportive parent
Pam Hewitt
Certificate for
most Improvement
Sam Metcher
Grid 7 Certificates
Molly Butler Grid three
Jack Butler Grid three
Jacob Appleton Grid three
Thanks again to all who attended!
Monday 4 February 2013
IJF new rules
Here is a summary of the new rules introduced by the IJF which are being trialled at international competition for the next four years. These rules will not filter down to 'lesser' competitions until they are approved after trial, but it is worth noting them as they will effect you in the future.
The most worrying ones for me are the total ban on a gripping/blocking below the waist with hands, effectively removing several throws, and the inability to break the opponents grip with two hands. This also applies to the bear hug notation, does this mean that ura-nage will be banned?
It is difficult to see why these rules are necessary, although I'm sure those people in power would give justification, but why are we narrowing the sport down even more, by continually removing throws and techniques. Surely we should always be looking forward and expanding our knowledge and range of techniques.
My personal favourite is the one which states Judoka should not shake hands before the contest. What is that about! Theres nothing like promoting the spirit of Judo........
- No time limit on Golden score (aka overtime period). A match does not end until one of the contestants scores or gets a shido (penalty).
- Old school ippon: Give the ippon score only to throws that result in “real impact”. Meaning, bring back the old school ippon.
- No running from the pin or submission: Once the pin or “effective” submission starts inbounds and both contestant go out of bounds, the pin and submission attempt is allowed to continue!
- Shidos don’t lead to points: It’s still 4 shidos for disqualification, but now getting 1, 2, or 3 shidos does not give your opponent points. Shidos are used only as tie breakers.
- Shorter pin: Pin duration reduced from 25 seconds down to 20 seconds. (10 seconds for yuko, 15 seconds for waza-ari).
- Penalized with Shido:-Breaking the grip with 2 hands.-Cross gripping should be followed by an immediate attack. Same rule as for the belt gripping and oneside gripping.The referees should strictly penalize the contestants who do not engage in a quick Kumikata grip or whotry not to be gripped by the opponent.-To hug the opponent for a throw. (Bear hug).
- Penalized with Hansoku-make:All attacks or blocking with one or two hands or with one or two arms below the belt in Tachi-waza.
- The bow:When entering the tatami area, fighters should walk to the entrance of the contest area at the same timeand bow to each other into the contest area.The contestants must not shake hands BEFORE the start of the contest.
referee course
There is a referee's course coming up, the details of which I have pasted below from the BJA website. I will be attending regardless, but if anybody wishes to attend, then I will be more than happy to give them a lift.
I will be advertising this around the club as well, as it would be beneficial for the club to have more referees. Let me know if you are interested.
Hampshire Junior and Senior Referee Course
From: Saturday, 2 March, 2013 - 09:00 am
To: Saturday, 2 March, 2013 - 05:00 pm
Event Location: AWE Judo Club, Recreational Society, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 4PRContact: Andy Tremlett, 07779988353 Mobile, 01256 817370 Evenings
This course is suitable for applicants wanting to gain Junior Level 1 and 2 awards and Seniors wanting to gain Area award.
Participants will need to bring with them their licence, judogi and a packed lunch.
Course Cost: £7.00
Fee payable to: Hampshire Judo
Bookings should be sent to:
8 Inglewood Drive, Hatch Warren, Basingstoke, RG22 4QZ
Closing Date: 25 February 2013
Christmas Party
Well, after several postponements, the Nokemono belated Christmas party was finally held at the weekend.
There was generally a good turn out, by both the kids and their parents. Well done to both of those groups and let me take this opportunity, to say a big thank you for your attendance and support.
As a side note, and to any of those adult Judoka who read this, it would be nice to see some more of you at the social events. The club is more than Judo instruction, it has a really vibrant and welcoming social side, so please get involved and you will get a lot more out of your time with the club.
The morning was filled with some very nice home made cakes, teas etc, games for the younger ones and a presentation award for yearly certificates and Grid 7 sections.
Well done to all of you who achieved and had your efforts rewarded. I will try and get the full list from Pete and post them on the blog.
On a personal note, I was most pleased to receive the Nokemono Knock-out award, for most injuries at the club last year. It is an achievement I will try not to repeat next year!
There was generally a good turn out, by both the kids and their parents. Well done to both of those groups and let me take this opportunity, to say a big thank you for your attendance and support.
As a side note, and to any of those adult Judoka who read this, it would be nice to see some more of you at the social events. The club is more than Judo instruction, it has a really vibrant and welcoming social side, so please get involved and you will get a lot more out of your time with the club.
The morning was filled with some very nice home made cakes, teas etc, games for the younger ones and a presentation award for yearly certificates and Grid 7 sections.
Well done to all of you who achieved and had your efforts rewarded. I will try and get the full list from Pete and post them on the blog.
On a personal note, I was most pleased to receive the Nokemono Knock-out award, for most injuries at the club last year. It is an achievement I will try not to repeat next year!
Monday 7 January 2013
Sods law
Welcome back to reality, finally an end to Christmas.
The club started back on Saturday 5th January for anyone who is still unsure, but I recommend looking at the Nokemono website to check current sessions and the like, due to the sports hall refurbishment.
Great session on Saturday..... off I went down to the hall feeling full of new year high expectations and enthusiasm.
And..................... yep, you guessed it. Injured again. I don't care whether you are in to fatalism or existentialism, but sometimes it just feels like sods law. Just as I was feeling optimistic and that I might get somewhere this year, I have broken 4 separate bones in my foot, due to a collision with Lisa's shin.
If Lisa reads this, I'm very sorry about the sweep, and your shin, but if it's any conciliation, I think my foot has come off worse.
6 Weeks off now which is a shame as I was hoping to grade soon and start my attempts at becoming a Dan grade but it will have to wait.
As a side note the class was good and it was nice to see so many Judoka turn up for the first session of the year.
For those of you who attend Nokemono, can I take the opportunity to advertise here, Pete's personal tuition. If you feel that personal tuition with Pete can take your Judo one step further then he is offering a 4 week course. There is a cost for this, but if you are interested, please put your name down at the club, and all enquiries will be dealt with.
The club started back on Saturday 5th January for anyone who is still unsure, but I recommend looking at the Nokemono website to check current sessions and the like, due to the sports hall refurbishment.
Great session on Saturday..... off I went down to the hall feeling full of new year high expectations and enthusiasm.
And..................... yep, you guessed it. Injured again. I don't care whether you are in to fatalism or existentialism, but sometimes it just feels like sods law. Just as I was feeling optimistic and that I might get somewhere this year, I have broken 4 separate bones in my foot, due to a collision with Lisa's shin.
If Lisa reads this, I'm very sorry about the sweep, and your shin, but if it's any conciliation, I think my foot has come off worse.
6 Weeks off now which is a shame as I was hoping to grade soon and start my attempts at becoming a Dan grade but it will have to wait.
As a side note the class was good and it was nice to see so many Judoka turn up for the first session of the year.
For those of you who attend Nokemono, can I take the opportunity to advertise here, Pete's personal tuition. If you feel that personal tuition with Pete can take your Judo one step further then he is offering a 4 week course. There is a cost for this, but if you are interested, please put your name down at the club, and all enquiries will be dealt with.
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