Members of the NS team were in fine form at the Eastern Canadian Judo Championships over the weekend. The team came away with several results and great performances.

Marshall Fitt - Gold

Sierra Tanner - Gold

Bailey MacDonald - Gold

Erin Bursey - Silver

Mathieu Lefrancois - Silver

Michael Short - Silver

Hailey Boutilier - bronze

Max Budgey - 7th

Max Teeuwen - 5th

Click here for the official results for the tournament

Hello folks,

Please see the link below for the registration sheet for the 2014 NUMA Cup.

Thanks and look forward to seeing you all on May 3rd.

Registration Sheet

The NS Provincials will be hosted by Island Martial Arts in Sydney on Saturday, June 7th. Venue and details to follow.

Hello folks,

The 2nd Annual NUMA Cup is just around the corner and promises to be the marque event of the season. Last years event was one of the largest and most successful tournaments in the past few years. This year promises to be the same.

Additionally there will be a banquet organized after the event for those wishing to add a touch of fun and excitement to the weekend.

Please see the link below for more information.

Flyer

Thanks to everyone for coming out to the 2014 Atlantic Championships at the Canada Games Centre in Halifax.

Click here to see the tournament results

In partnership with Sport Nova Scotia, the Canadian Sports Center Atlantic, and the Coaching Association of Canada we are pleased to announce that registration for this year’s Atlantic Coaches Conference in Halifax, April 25^th 26^th, 2014 is now open.

We have put  together an exciting group of presenters including world renowned expert in coaching effectiveness, Wade Gilbert, professor in the Department of Kinesiology at California State University.

In addition to providing an excellent learning and networking opportunity , the Atlantic Coaches Conference will also count towards NCCP professional development for all coaches that attend.

This year we have partnered with the Coaching Association of Canada and registration for all coaches attending the conference will be completed using the NCCP Locker. This will allow all coaches to quickly get their NCCP credit for this event.  To register for this year’s conference please follow this link.  The early bird rate of $150 is available until March 31^st 2014 so register early to avoid disappointment.

Please click her for a full conference schedule details of all presenters and their sessions.

Judo Nova Scotia will host a Dojo Assistant course on March 21-23rd, 2014 at Nova United Martial Arts in Halifax.

Please see the flyer for registration information. Deadline for registration is March 1, 2014.

Flyer

Hello folks,

We are only 6 weeks away from the 2014 Atlantic Championships, being held in Halifax, NS.

Please see the attached technical package for more information.

Technical Package

• There will be not be any weigh-ins the morning of. 
• PRAGMA will be used for the draw.
• Blue Gi is mandatory for U16 and over.
• Referees need to submit their names before March 14.

Sandi Emond
Vice president and communications officer
Club de judo central d'Edmundston

www.judoedmundston.ca

Technical Package

Dear Judo Coaches,

The 2014 Atlantic Coaches Conference is just around the corner. The conference provides a great opportunity for coaching education and development. Please see attached flyer for details.

Flyer

Please see the link below for the 2014 Super Coupe de Quebec (please cut and paste into your browser). Interested athletes are asked to contact Scott Tanner before registration. Athletes must register before January 17th.

Scott Tanner

sm_tanne@hotmail.com

902.223.7574

http://www.judo-quebec.qc.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=151&Itemid=187

Information concerning the 2014 Atlantic Winter Camp is available at the following link;

http://www.judonb.org

The camp is very close so please make arrangments as soon as possible.

Click here to see the results from the 2013 Kanokai Invitational

Charlene Oliver-- Sandan-Halifax

Congratulations to all.

Congratulations goes out to Andrew Hennebury and Jeff Wile whom both obtained their black belts over the weekend.

The grading and kata clinc were held on December 1st in Bridgewater. The board consisted of Bill Anderson, Dave Anderson, and Bryan Kenna.

Congrats to Andrew and Jeff!

Have a look at the recent video put together for NUMA Judo.

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyaYMMmyRQs

Please join Nova United Martial Arts for their grand opening this coming weekend September 28th!

The day will begin with a free Yoga class at 10:45am, followed by open mat at 12pm, and then a Barbq till 3pm. Lots of prizes to be given away.

Promises to be a great celebration with food, fun, and ofcourse JUDO! Come check out the new facility!

Nova United Martial Arts

521 Herring Cove Rd.

Sensei Jason: 902.403.2423

Judo Nova Scotia will host a Dojo Assistant Course this coming November 15-17th. Please see flyer attached for further information.

Flyer

Any questions please feel free to contact Scott Tanner.

Scott Tanner

sm_tanne@hotmail.com

Atlantic Training Center will host the first tournament of season in NS. Please find attached the technical package for the tournament as well as the second Canada Winter Games Camp being held the following Sunday.

Flyer

Hello everyone,

Please find attached the official notice for the CWG Camp being held at NUMA on September 21-22nd. In the schedule there is a randori training at 12pm on Saturday. This is an optional training if the athletes wish to be there.

CWG Camp Flyer

Any questions please feel free to contact Scott Tanner at any time.

sm_tanne@hotmail.com

902.223.7574

Dear coaches,

Please see the attached pdf outlining the first phase of the JNS Coaching Plan as well as Judo Nova Scotia's policy for minimum coaching certification guidelines.

Any questions please feel free to contact Scott Tanner at any time.

Coaches Plan

Minimum Guidelines

Yours,

Scott Tanner

sm_tanne@hotmail.com

902.223.7574

Amy Cotton will likely compete at her final World Championships tomorrow in Rio. For Cotton it will be an end to a wonderfully successful career.

Please join us online to watch her live performance at ippon.tv. Competition starts at 10am.

Ippon.org

Ippon.tv

Whitney's peformances over the past weekend has earned her a third trip to the Junior World Championships. Winning the senior national title and a bronze at the U21 championship combined to earn her another trip to represent Canada at the World Championships in October. The event is being held in Slovenia. This year marks the last of Whitney's junior career and tops off a remarkable run which included a Junior National Title, Canada Games Gold, Commonwealth Gold, and many other podium finishes. The newly crowned Senior National Champion will ease into the senior ranks with this title already under her belt.

Sean Isnor Claims Bronze!

Team Nova Scotia faired well over the four day event with a gold and two bronze medals. Two of those belong to Lohnes while the other was well earned by the fiesty Sean Isnor. Isnor's years of hardwork paid off winning him a bronze with a solid performance in the mens U21 -73kgs class.

For full results please see the links below.

U15 results

U18 results

U21 results

Senior results

It was a monumental day for Judo in Nova Scotia yesterday as two hometown gals brought back the pride of Nova Scotia. And I don't mean Keiths beer! Yesterday the two were both on top of the podium at the Canadian Senior Judo Championships claiming gold and the right to be called "National Champion".

For Amy it accompanies the many she already has, and tops off a wonderful storybook career that spans over a decade. It includes two Olympic Games and many World Championship appearences. She will more than likely take to the mat for the last time at the Worlds in Rio next September, but her legacy will stay forever. She will retire as one of the most successful canadian judoka ever, surely to see the Judo Canada Hall of Fame someday soon.

Remarkably the day was a passing of the guard so to speak. Whitney walked away with her first senior title and a start to a promising Judo career. Already well established in the junior ranks she will be battling on Sunday to earn a spot on the U21 World Championship team. This will mark her second trip to a Jr. World Championship.

Both Lohnes and Cotton are a testimate to the possibilities one can achieve when you are willing to commit to a goal. Amy exemplifies a real hometown hero, coming from small town Judique in Cape Breton to shine bright on the World stage. She has been the example, and laid the path for future stars. Whitney from Bridewater is on that path now. Lets watch and see!

Sensei Hongo will be visiting NUMA this coming August 17th and 18th.

Dust of your Judogis and put away your bathing suits for a weekend of top notch Judo!

Flyer

On June 15, 2013 the following people successfully presented their candicacy for the rank of Shodan (1st degree black belt)

Subject to approval by Judo Canada grading board.

Matthew Short, ATC
Liam Goulding, ATC
Sean Isnor, ATC
David Steele, NUMA
Mike Lavoie, NUMA

Congratulations to all candidates.

Grading panel consisted of:

Bill Anderson, Chair - 5th Dan
Ken Whitney - 6th Dan
Sean Goulding - 4th Dan
Charlene Oliver - 2nd Dan

It was a great, albeit rainy, day in New Glasgow on Saturday. The perfect day to be inside at a Judo Tournament. Thank you to the organizers from Kanokai for making this a great event for participants and spectators.

Click here for tournament results

NUMA Summer Day Camp

Ages 5-10: August 5-9th

Ages 11-16: August 19-23th

Judo, swimming, bowling, carnival day......promises to be great fun.

Flyer

Four elite fighters will be participating in the World Police and Fire Games in Belfast, North Ireland.

Chris Townsend, Mitchell DesRoches, Patrick Daley and Jared Waterman have been competitively training for months to be in shape to compete with the world’s best.

“We’ve been fighting each other all year long,” said head sensei Chris Townsend. “We can’t take time off if we want to make noise at the tournament.”

The World Police and Fire Games run every two years and began in 1985 in San Jose, Calif. This year’s event will feature over 10,000 competitors from 70 countries competing in 56 different sports.

The three locals, along with Waterman, a Nova Scotia resident, will depart Canada on July 29 and spend six hours on a plane travelling over 4,000 kilometres each way.

When it comes to matching up talent-wise, the Summerside club says they’re capable of making some noise.

“We’ve been working hard for this trip and haven’t loss focus on our goal,” said DesRoches. “We’re hoping to win at least a couple matches when we’re over there. It’s a different style of fighting, so we will need time to adapt to it.”

Townsend, who formed the club, says it will be the trip of a lifetime.

“I’m really excited to travel overseas and compete with the best in the world,” he said. “The club has competed in competitions before, but never anything this big. After it’s over, we’ll be able to see where we’re at as a team and get better from our experience.”

“We’ve been fighting each other all year long. We can’t take time off if we want to make noise at the tournament.” - Head sensei Chris Townsend

TJC Judo Club has three different age groups ranging from 5 to 8, 9 to 14, and the seniors class that is 15 and up. The youngest club works primarily on physical conditioning and light Judo exercises. The 9-to-14 age group works on heavier conditioning, some students practise light fighting.

The senior class has members that reach nearly 60-years-old, and the group does heavy physical activity along with regular fighting competitions.

Daley, a Summerside police officer, says it’s great to see youth playing in competitive sport.

“The younger students look up to the higher belt ranks,” said Daley. “The young students always look forward to class and some stay later to play longer.”

The club recently found a new home in the Boys and Girls Club, which provided space twice a week.

Townsend said he appreciates the club and everyone that has helped out TJC.

“The people and organizations that have helped fund our trip mean a lot,” said Townsend. “The cost is well into the thousands, without them we may have had to forfeit the competition.”

With less than three months until the Games begin, training will be intensified and the days in the gym will become longer, but the team agrees, it’s worth it.

Courtesy of "Journal Pioneer"

Please enjoy the highlights from the May 11th tournament at Halifax Judo Academy.

Courtesy of Doug MacAulay.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NeV7fu7-0xk

Like most people these days working for a living is no easy task. Surprisingly enough coaching is much the same. I have been fortunate enough over the past several years to work for a sport that I love, the sport of Judo. It may sound like it would be a dream come true, especially for those who love the sport like I do. It can be incredibly rewarding as long as you understand that every job has its ups and down and it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Judo is no exception, it offers great opportunity to explore the world and work with incredible people at the same time.

I am currently on the road for a 7-8 day trip to Baku, Azerbaijan with the Canadian team. Among those will be Nova Scotia’s own Amy Cotton and Olympic bronze medalist Antoine Valois-Fortier. Baku will host the Grand Slam this weekend in which many of the top world ranked players will compete. It will represent the highest level of competition I have coached in to date. It’s an interesting dynamic; as a competitor I would certainly have been nervous but here not so much. I have worked hard enough as an athlete to understand the sport at a level where even here I feel comfortable.

Will it be fun? Yes and no. Certainly not fun if the team doesn’t perform. Not fun like riding a roller coaster! There are expectations here. Athletes have their own performance expectations, I have expectations of my own coaching, and there are expectations from our partners like Judo Canada and Sport Canada. In essence we are not here to play the game or try to win. There is no trying at this level there is only winning and nothing else really matters. So is it fun? Yes

What is the price to pay? Because everything comes with a price make no mistake. Easy to think of for an athlete; hundreds of hours of training, eating properly, money spent on traveling. There are many sacrifices that an athlete makes, but what about the coach? It is by no means a vacation. Often we are so busy, that in a 7 day trip we might get a day to relax and see something local, but sometimes this doesn’t even happen. We often spend many hours preparing for competition to make sure the athletes will only need to concentrate on the task at hand. Relaxing is a hard thing to do when you have people depending on you!

Personally as a coach the toughest thing for me to do is balance work and life. Far tougher than any training I have done is explaining to your young children why dad has to go away so often. Why dad is not always home. This is my biggest sacrifice. When I am home I try to be 100% there and give them as much as I can of me. I’m not perfect at balancing this yet but I working harder than ever at doing so. Next time your watching a high level competition understand not only the sacrifice of the athlete but also of the coaches.

Yours,

Coach Tanner

The Coaching Association of Canada has announced the launch of their new e-learning module for concussion awareness. "Making head Way" has been designed to help coaches gain the knowledge and skills required to ensure the safety of their athletes. This multi-sport module will cover: what to do to prevent concussions, how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a concussion, what to do when you suspect an athlete has a concussion, and how to ensure athletes return to play safely. For a limited time this on-line module is free to all coaches and the course will also be recorded as professional development on coaches transcripts.

To find out more information about this important issue for all coaches. Follow this link to the CAC web site.

Click here for the results for all categories of the 2013 Atlantic Championships

"More Than a Sport" has been Judo Nova Scotia's tagline for sometime. Those who have practiced judo for any length of time understand what it means. Judo is, as its founder Dr. Jigoro Kano said, "A way of life". Judo has the ability to transcend sport and affect us at the very roots of our lives. It can change us in ways we never image it could, and has a way of making things easier.

However, like anything it is only as good as the person delivering the message. Charlene Oliver from the Hachikan Judo Club exemplifies what it is to give the gift of Judo. She does it with love, understanding and compassion.

Please take the time to read the article if you too want to be inspired;

How Judo Improved my Family's Life

Those who know him and know him well call him Sensei. Sensei, the Japanese word for teacher doesn't quite encompass all the man is or what he has done for Canadian Judo. Truly a living legend in our sport, he has arguably played the largest role in the development of Judo in Canada. Over the past 4 decades he has been a pillar in Canadian Judo and our performance on the tatami. There is not much that this distinguished gentleman hasn't accomplished in the sport.

He has competed and coached at the highest levels, producing the greatest athlete that has ever graced Team Canada, Mr. Nicolas Gill. Gill was twice an Olympic medalist and 3 times a world medalist. Gill is just the tip of the iceberg as far as star pupils go.

"For me he is the epitome of a judoka. If you have ever had the opportunity to learn from him you can see that he was just made to do judo. He is by far the greatest judoka I have been on the mat with. He taught so much, not only about judo but about life. I still learn from him today when I am with athletes on the mat teaching. It wasn't till years after I left the training center that I ralized how fortunate I was to have had him as a Sensei. He's a great judoka, a great coach, and a great man."

"Congratulations Sensei we are so very proud of you."

Read More;

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/little-known-canadians-receive-big-honour/article6801756/

Vanessa gave birth to Maria Mae McCarron on Dec.29th. She weighed in at 7.1 lbs 10 oz!

Congrats to both mom and dad!

It was a great turn out on Sunday, November 25th. NUMA had 40 people (friends and family) walk for the club.  Jason Scott and Jamie Slaunwhite did throws on the trailer to give an idea of Judo to spectators.  There were 60 companies in the parade this year and an estimate of 7500 spectators. 

Great event and great exposure for the club and for Judo.

Last week JNS had the opportunity to welcome Roman Jahoda to a few dojos in Nova Scotia. Roman took the time during a business stop to visit both the ATC and Hachikan dojos.

Jahoda is a former national team member and Austrian national champion. Additionally he has several world cup medals to his credit. A trained physiotherapist, he now runs an innovative core training company in Austria. His unique concept is widely accepted all over the world and he lectures around the globe at various universities and institutions. His recent stop was Canada and he finished his visit here in Nova Scotia.

I can say that he was exceptional on the mat with not only the kids, but the adults as well. His approach to teaching judo is very sound and he brings a very unique and special personality to the tatami.

Special thanks to Charlene Oliver and theose at Hachikan Judo Club for providing a first class welcome to Roman in Greenwood.

Squamish B.C was the venue for the 2012 edition of World Judo Day. Judo Canada was fortunate to share this day by holding a clinic with Nuno Delgado, Portuguese Olympic bronze medalist.

Nuno delivered a great experience to over 50 coaches from all over Canada. The clinic was centered around proper pedagogical pathways of development for teaching judo, while maintaining the focus on the business aspect of Judo.

The weekend was also an opportunity to meet and greet old friends like Sensei Mike Soares!

Nova United Martial Arts hosted JNS's first Jamboree of the season with Halloween Mayhem last Sunday. The day brought together over 40 judoka for a half day full of activity. Participants not only did judo but they had the opportunity to wear their Halloween costumes and bowl as well. At days end everyone had prizes and pizza.

Special thanks to Jason and Sarah Scott for their contribution to making this a spooktacular event!

Great fun had by all!

Over the past weekend Judo Nova Scotia was very proud to welcome London Olympic bronze medalist, Mr. Antoine Valois-Fortier.

Antoine delivered two clinics on Sunday at the ATC in Halifax to the young and the veterans alike. He greeted kids and parents with the same ease and grace with which he won his bronze medal. At only 22 years old the Quebec City native is well beyond his years. He speaks like a veteran of the pulpit, holds himself with grace and humility, and works like a warrior on the Judo mat. All of these attributes led him to an Olympic bronze medal just a few months ago. Only the fourth person to do so in Canadian history, and only the fifth Olympic Judo medal.

"For me the most inspiring thing about this young man was his work ethic. There is nothing overtly physical about him, not any overpowering visual qualities which could prelude one to believe he was as special as he really is. However if you put your hands on him in randori you will realize very quickly that this kid is for real. You learn that he works harder than anyone else, that he believes in what he is doing, and that he never gives in. He is a champion both on the inside and the outside. His performance in London was nothing less than miraculous. In the first three rounds in London he started with the defending Olympic Champion then two world medalists. A close loss to the tough russian followed, only to see him bounce back with two more huge wins. One win over the Argentinian followed by probably the biggest win of his life over the American Travis Stevens."

He changed Judo in Canada that day in London, in a similar way Nicolas Gill did so many years ago when he too stepped onto the tatami as a young unknown judoka in 1992. Both would leave there mark on our hearts only hours later with bronze medals, in a sport that is arguably the toughest in the world.

Bravo Tony......You are our hero!

At the Quebec Open last week, Tim Lohnes from Bridgewater Judo Club was certified as a National A Referee. Congratulations to Tim for this accomplishment. The next step will be for Tim to get roistered at this level to be eligible to referee at the National Championships. Tim will be travelling to the Edmonton International in Spring of 2013 to gain some exposure. Tim has received some much appreciated funding from Sport Nova Scotia to attend these events.

Congratulations again to Tim for his accomplishment, commitment and representation of the sport of Judo in Nova Scotia and Canada.

Bailey Macdonald was unstoppable on the tatami on Day 2 of the Quebec Open International. Competing in the U15 60Kg division the New Glasgow native went 5-0, winning all matches by ippon! Most effective for Bailey was his newaza. Opponents became very wearing of him on the ground during the day but could not stop him.

"It was a great day for Bailey racking up the wins and a gold medal to boot. He is a young and up and comer for Judo Nova Scotia. Who knows what he will be able to do in 2.5 years as a potential Canada Winter Games team member, if he keeps training and working hard"

Great job Bailey!

Other results on Day 2;

Whitney Lohnes 1 win/2 defeats - 5th place

Kayla Dewhirst 0 wins/2 defeats - 5th place

Liam Goulding 0 wins/2 defeats - np

Luke Goulding 1 win/2 defeats - np

Day one of the Quebec Open kicked off the 2012-13 season for Judo Canada. Nova Scotia fielded a total of 5 athletes in the U18 and U20 divisions, winning one bronze medal from Matt Short.

The new modification to the age groups from U17 to U18 had a big impact on our athletes here, and it is obvious that it will take time to adjust and compete in this new age bracket. Two of U17 National Medalist struggled a bit in the new age group. Their performances were certainly respectable and with lots of hard work this season there should be no reason they will not reach the top of this age group as well.

The following are the results for team N.S on day 1;

U20

Matthew Short - 1 win/2defeats Bronze

Liam Goulding - 1 win/2defeats

Jessica Hale - 0 wins/2 defeats

U18

Marshall Fitt - 0 wins/2defeats

Maddy Fitt - 0wins/3defeat

Often when we travel to major competitions we face opponents of all levels, including those athletes who are just a bit above our own level. As a coach it is often hard to explain the difference and importance between performing and winning. Sometimes you can perform very well and still not win and vise versae. Athletes have to understand the difference if they are to strive in the sport of Judo. This is because Judo is one of the hardest sports in the world to perform consistently at.
Many times athletes come into these competitions with only winning on their minds, long before they are actually at the level to compete. This can be a very frustrating process for those who foster this type of thinking. Often we are in a situation where there are matches we can expect to win and some where we have a lesser chance to. What then becomes important is to win the ones we are capable of and perform our best in the others.
Today Matt Short did just this. He fought his guts out against two very tough competitors losing close battles, and he fought like a warrior to defeat Ateicok Niquay from Quebec. Matt had previously lost to Niquay and knew the match would be tough. We had a strategy on how to beat him this time that involved winning each and every grip for the right sleeve. It took a warriors attitude and effort but Matt out fought, out gripped, and out willed his opponent for the victory that sealed his bronze medal.
His win here is not just the result of 5 minutes of hard work. It comes from all the hard work Matt has been doing over the last few years. This includes a 3 week training camp at the prestigious Morris Judo Center in Albany, N.Y. Without this type of commitment results are not possible. 
Congratulations to Matt on his performance today. Hopefully others will see that it takes determination, hard work, skill, and commitment to even have the opportunity for success.
Way to go Matty!

Please find attached the flyer for the DA course being held in Halifax in November. All coaches looking to assist in their local dojos will want to take this course for certification.

FLYER

Further questions please contact Scott Tanner

Scott Tanner

sm_tanne@hotmail.com

902.223.7574

Dear club coaches,

The 2012/13 season is now upon us and most of the Judo around the province is underway. One of my objectives throughout the season is to help as many Judo Nova Scotia club coaches as possible. JNS is working on a strategic plan that will cover the next 4 years. Part of this plan involves creating a strong coaches development plan. We will be providing development opportunities to club coaches. This is in order for them to further their coaching knowledge and ultimately become better instructors. In an effort to develop this plan we will be requesting certain information about your particular dojo, the coaches who deliver programing, those assisting head senseis, and those wishing to attain future certification.

As you may be aware the coaching system in Canada has been changed drastically from the old NCCP based format to the new CBET system, or Competency Based Education System. Coaches entering into this system will take courses in order to earn the status of Dojo Assistant (Old NCCP Level 1), Dojo Instructor (NCCP Level 2), and Competition Development (NCCP Level 3). Technically speaking, coaches running their own programs should be DI certified. One of the biggest differences between the old and new system is the fact that coaches will need to earn a certain amount of CECs (continuing education credits) in order to maintain their certification status. No longer are the days where coaches gain certification and rest on their laurels for the remainder of their coaching careers. Hence one of the roles of Judo Nova Scotia is to provide club coaches with opportunities to earn credits towards re-certification.



To start the season off JNS will be offering two opportunities for coaching development. In November we will be hosting a Dojo Assistant course in Halifax. Any future coaches who wish to someday run their own dojos or assist in their current dojos should look at getting this course as soon as possible.

Judo Nova Scotia will be hosting former World Champion Neil Adams in December at the Prince George Hotel in Halifax. Coaches will have the opportunity to learn hands on technical skills and well as methodologies on how to deliver sound Judo programs.

Finally as the Technical Director I will be available to visit your dojo during one of your evening classes to help offer further assist on how to better deliver Judo programs, to exchange professional ideas on best practices, and to get to know the realities in your given dojo.

In order to book a club visit please email me directly and we can work out a date and time that works with both our schedules. In the meantime please feel free to contact me with any questions. I look forward to the season ahead and to assisting in the development of coaches across the province. 

Yours,

Scott Tanner
HP Coach/Technical Director Judo Nova Scotia
Regional Technical Support Officer Judo Canada
902.223.7574

London Olympic bronze medalist Antoine Valois-Fortier will be coming to Halifax on October.14 to run a few technical sessions and sign autographs.
Valois-Fortier was relatively an unknown walking into the Games but left as a star, notching up win after win over Olympic Champions and world medalists. In his bronze medal match he defeated long time foe, american Travis Stevens.
Antoine will be in Halifax for the day showing off his prize from London and signing autographs. Please join us to meet this remarkable young man and share in some of his experiences from London.

Tentative Schedule:

Location: Atlantic Training Centre

Cost: brought to you by Judo Nova Scotia and Judo Canada free of charge

Technical Sessions will be for 11+ years old minimum orange belt.

Sunday 10am - 11:30 pm: Technical Session #1

Sunday 1pm - 2pm: Meet the Champion (photos and autographs)

Sunday 2:30pm - 4pm: Technical Session #2

VIEW FLYER HERE

Sunsweep is back!

Please follow the link below and contact Scott Tanner if you have any questions. It's a fantastic initiative that can help raise much needed funds for travel, training, and equipment.

http://www.sportnovascotia.ca/Fundraising/SubwaySunsweep/tabid/126/Default.aspx

On behalf of Judo Nova Scotia I would like extend best wishes to our legend sensei, Mr. Kenneth Whitney. Sensei celebrated his 80th birthday today!

To some he has been a friend, to some a teacher, to some a legend, and to some..all of these.

Happy Birthday Buddy!

We will be waiting for the next opportunity on the mat, to give you your birthday throws!!

The draws are offically posted for the London Olympics. Canadians are in tough as always!

Both Amy Cotton and Kelita Zupancic have drawn French World Champions from 2011. It will be a good test for our team and we wish them all the best.

Draws and tournament results can be followed at www.ippon.org

I wanted to share with you all a card I recieved on behalf of Judo Nova Scotia from Amy Cotton.

 
You have made us proud long before you step onto the mat in London. Go Amy we are behind you every step of the way!!!!!!

Folks,

We are just days away from the biggest sporting event in the world. The 2012 London Olympics are less than a week away from today, and our own Amy Cotton is there representing us all.

Four years of hard work to prepare for an Olympics is a long time. But it doesn't just happen 4 years out. Athletes like Amy spend their whole lives dedicated to the pursuit of theirs dreams. In reality it has taken her 20 years to make it to the Olympics, because right around that time is when the dream begins. Now 20 years later and with one Olympics already under her belt she will once again realize her dream.

To say it takes hard work and sacrifice is an understatement. Amy has invested countless hours and given more time and energy in her pursuit of excellence, than most do in trying to earn a Ph.D.

On August 2 she will be rewarded for her efforts, and we will be blessed with the opportunity to share it with her. Come one, come all and support our hometown girl on Aug.2.

Please see the Olympic Judo schedule attached.

http://www.london2012.com/judo/schedule-and-results/

Maskwa Paddling Club served as the launching pad for two of Nova Scotia's 2012 Olympians; Amy Cotton and Mark deJonge.

The paddling club welcomed hundreds of kids and sporting fans to an autographing session put on by the pair of Olympians. For Amy this will be her second Olympics and for Mark his first. In great fashion Maskwa dragon boat paddlers gave a two boat Maskwa salut to wish both Mark and Amy best of luck.

The atmosphere was fun and exciting with great food, great weather, and most importantly two great athletes.

Go Amy! Go Mark!

Special Thanks to Ian Scott and the Chronicle Herald for their gracious support to both Amy and Mark, and to their continued contribution to our communities.

Whitney Lohnes 2-1 -bronze

Heidi Feit 1-2

Jessica Hale 0-2

Liam Goulding 1-2

Sean Isnor 0-2

Marshall Fitt 1-2

Alex Scott 1-2

Maddy added a gold medal to Nova Scotias two bronze today in Toronto. Maddy came from behind the defeat a tough Quebec opponent to walk away with the gold.

Goulding and Budgey 7th
Luke Goulding and Max Budgey both finished 7th. Goulding was 1-2 on the day and Budgey 2-2.
Bailey Macdonald finished the day 0-2.

All fought extremely well representing N.S proudly.

Day 1 of the 2012 Combined National Championships saw two ladies in action, Kayla Dewhirst and Whitney Lohnes.

Dewhirst started the day in a tough spot drawing multiple national champion Latulippe of Quebec. Kayla went 0-3 on the day but improved throughout the three fights. It is a fairly new weight category for her but she is showing progress each time she comes out to compete.

Whitney was in much better form this time around in Toronto. The Ontario Open which was held two months ago in the same venue was a bit of a struggle for Lohnes. However in the last few months rest and rejuvanation helped bring her back to her previous form. She went 1-3 on the day to capture the bronze. The is the second year in a row Whitney has climbed onto the podium at the senior nationals. Congrats to Whitney!

Day 2 of the Combined National Championships saw only one Nova Scotian in action, Marshall Fitt. But action is just what the 15 year old brought to the mat on this day, stunning the crowd with throw after throw to capture the bronze medal. His only slip came in the second round where he dropped the match to his Quebec counterpart via choke. Outside of this he was simply unstoppable throwing every other opponent for full scores. With the medal win he has automatically qualified for the U20 age catergory which takes to the mat on Sunday, the final day of competition.

Judo Nova Scotia would like to thank the Kanokai Judo Club for becoming a 'Black Belt' sponsor for the 2012 Manulife Dragon Boat Festival.

Kanokai Judo Club is a not-for-profit Judo Club that has been in existence in Pictou County since 1989.  Judo is a martial art and an olympic sport and our club teaches/promotes discipline, fair play, goal setting, and sportsmanship. Kanokai Judo Club is open to those 6 years of age and older, and we have recreational judoka right up to nationally ranked competitors. All of our instructors, coaches, executive/board members, etc. volunteer all their time and expertise.

Halifax Judo Academy hosted a provincial grading last weekend which saw several candidates jump in rank. Congratulations to all who were successful in achieving their promotions.

Lyle Latimer to Shodan (ATC)
Mike Kitson  to Shodan (Kanokai)
Andrew MacNeil to Shodan (Kanokai)
Pat Whitney to Yondan (Sheet Harbour)
Gordie Foster to Yondan (PEI)
Hans (John) Wilbert to Godan (PEI)
Dave Anderson to Godan (Bridgwater)
Brian Degaust to Godan (Sydney)
 
Evaulations were assessed by:
Fred Blaney 7th. Dan (NB)
Ken Whitney 6th.Dan (NS)
Bill Anderson 5th.Dan (NS)

Last week Whitney Lohnes was officially presented the 2011 Roland Mitchner Award. Whitney joins a rare group of athletes as recipients of the distinguished award including hockey's Sidney Crosby. Congratulations to Whitney!

Nova United Martial Arts officially opened it's doors last night in Spryfield. The new dojo bowed in with introductory programs for all age groups. Instructors Jason Scott and James Slaunwhite were on hand to host the more than 35 new members ranging in age from 5 to 45 years old. The intro program is being put on for the month of June to generate buzz in the community about the new facilty and programs available.

The dojo itself is arguably the biggest in the province and offers loads of space to practice upon. Vertern judoka Jason Scott and James Slaunwhite head the program and look to develop a solid group of new judoka in the Spryfield region. For more information on NUMA, or to drop in please contact Jason Scott.

Nova United Martial Arts

16 Dentith Ave. Unit 19

902.404.2423

Over the past weekend Judo Nova Scotia held it's annual championships to crown the year's edition of the province's best. The event went off with few hitches and was declared a great success. The day brought together the largest group of LTAD particpants. More than 25 U7 & U9 judoka from across the province participated. The LTAD concept has caught fire here in the province and continues to be a great success in the hands of one of it's leaders Charlene Oliver. Oliver and her crew did a great job of creating and maintain smiles throughout the enitre event. Special thanks to Robin Enman, Liam Goulding, Jack Cameron and Jessica Hale all whom assisted in making the LTAD a success.

The event was the most success of the year for the province in terms of numbers with over 140 athletes from clubs throughout Nova Scotia, P.E.I, and New Brunswick. As is tradition, Judo N.S  took the time to honor some of it's judo stars and recipients of the provincial awards. Below is a collection of some of the Dojo's Top Student awards.

Special thanks to all those who's hardwork made the day successfull!!!

We at Judo Nova Scotia wish you all the best for the summers months ahead and look forward to seeing you all in the fall for another promising judo season.

Dave Anderson joined Jessica Hale on Saturday night at the Halifax Marriot Hotel to be honored for his contribution to Judo. Anderson received the 2012 RICOH award for JNS Volunteer of the Year. Few will ever realize the difference Anderson has made in the sport. Having served both as president for Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, Anderson currently serves as Regional Business Manager for Judo Canada and Treasurer for Judo Nova Scotia. These are to name a few of the roles he has played and contributions he has made.

Over the past 4 years Dave has held the wheel for Judo Nova Scotia as it's financial officer. He often works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the association running efficiently and on task.

"Personally he has taught me much more than how to budget and balance books; he has showed me what it is to be a professional both on and off the mats"   ...Scott Tanner

Please join Judo Nova Scotia in honoring Dave with an award that represents a small token of what he has given to our sport and our province.

Thank you Dave

Saying Jessica Hale has class would be an understatement. The 16 year old from Kentville was honored Saturday as the recipient of the " 2012 RICOH Sports Makes A Difference Award". Jessy was selected to receive the award based on her courageous comeback to the tatami after a battle with a disease that nearly took her leg.

In her fight against the disease she proved to be the victor. Not just in overcoming the near fatal illness, but also in inspiring those around her. She helped redefine what it is be a great athlete and more importantly a great human being. She taught us all what can be accomplished with a lot of guts and courage, and the triumph of the human spirit.

She proundly received her award Saturday night in front of all of those in attendance at the Halifax Marriot Waterfront Hotel.

Judo Nova Scotia is proud to say that she is one of our own! Way to go Jessy!

Nova Scotia had a small contingent at this years Ontario Open in Toronto. The BMO Center served as a test venue for the 2012 Combined National Championships. The tournament was a bit smaller than anticipated but had a good range of talent that challenged our athletes.  

Day-1 U20

Whitney Lohnes  2 wins/1 defeat - 1st place

Sean Isnor 2 wins/2 defeats - 5th place

Liam Goulding  2 defeats

Jessica Hale  2 defeats

Day-2 Senior/U15

Whitney Lohnes 2 defeats/ 1 win - 3rd place

Sean Isnor 1 win/ 2 defeats

Liam Goulding  2 defeats

Jessica Hale  2 defeats

Luke Goulding 2 defeats

Whitney Lohnes finished third at the U.S Open over the weekend. She added this bronze to a 5th from the Miami World Cup she earned the day before.

Congrats to Whitney!!

Thanks to everyone for coming out to the 2012 Halifax Invitational Judo Tournament.

Click here for results

Sierra Tanner 42kgs U13 - 2nd place
Sean Isnor Senior 73kgs - 1st place
Sean Isnor U20 73kgs - 2nd place
Alex Scott U20 81kgs - 1st place
Alex Scott Senior 81kgs - 2nd place
Max Budgey U15 50kgs - 2nd place
Liam Goulding Senior 60 kgs - 1st place
Liam Goulding U20 60 kgs - 2nd place

Click Here for Full Results, En Francais

Keep up the good work.

Yours in judo.

Bill Anderson

Judo Nova Scotia had 12 athletes take to the mats this past Saturday in Boston. Saturday's competition, the Pedro Challenge showcased over 500 athletes from across North America. Our athletes showed their style and talent bringing home several medals and some top notch performances.

Sierra Tanner - Silver (9-10yrs)

Jillian Oliver - Gold (9-10yrs)

Marshall Fitt - Silver (13-14yrs)

Sean Isnor - Bronze (15-16yrs); Bronze (17-20yrs)

Dylan Landry - Silver (17-20yrs)

Kayla Dewhirst - Silver (17-20yrs)

Jessica Hale - Bronze (15-16yrs)

Others in action with solid efforts were Ryan Dickerson, Michael Short, Douglas Webb, Terrence Rochon, Maddy Fitt, and Heidi Feit.

Sean Isnor and Matthew Short both picked up bronze medals at the Steveston International Judo tournament on Saturday. The tournament attracted teams from all over Canada and western United States. Additionally Tokai University in Japan sent 40 competitors along with their former world champion coach Hidetoshi Nakanishi.

Sean went 3-2 on the day to pick up the bronze while mat went 1-2. Both had solid performances and fought better in the senior portion of the event. The Japanese representatives showed their great prowess winning all but one division they entered. The sole Canadian taking home gold here was Etienne Briand who had an outstanding performance in a division featuring 7 Tokai competitors. Tokai University in a renowned school which produces many world champions.

Sunday showcased a fantastic camp lead by Sensei Hidetoshi Nakanishi with lots or randori and technique practice.

JNS president Jack Cameron was officially graded to 4th dan. Grading board chair Sensei Bill Anderson presented Jack with his certificate this past week.

Congrats to our President!

Bridgewater's Whitney Lohnes has been chosen to receive the 2011 Roland Michener Canada Games Award. This award is given by the Canada Games Council and accompanies a $2000 bursary.

Special thanks to Health and Wellness's Aaron Nutting for his assistance.

Congrats to Whitney!!

It was a great finish to a bountiful trip for Whitney Lohnes. Fighting in Cardiff, Wales at the Commonwealth Championships Lohnes secured the gold medal in the junior division with a beautiful uchi mata against her Australian opponent.

Day two of the competition saw the seniors take to the mat. Whitney, still a junior, showed her stuff once again making it to the final only to lose this time to an opponent from England.

Two finals in two days is a great accomplishment for the 2011 Canada Games Champion. This experience should serve her well as she works towards the 2016 Olympic Games.

Whitney Lohnes was victorious last night in Cardiff, Wales winning the Gold Medal at the Commonwealth Judo Championships.

The young Bridgewater native won all three matches, two by ippon including the final to climb to the top of the podium.

-48 kg : Whitney Lohnes  (3-0) 1^st

1) Victoire / Win (ippon) ROWLAND, Rhianna (WALES- GBR)

2) Victoire / Win (yuko)  MORRIS, Jenny (ENG- GBR)

3)  Victoire / Win (ippon) COPPLEMAN, Alice (AUS)

Judo Nova Scotia had the pleasure of hosting Edinborough's Peter Gardiner over the past weekend. Gardiner is renowned for his approach to teaching judo to children. The clinic attracted over 63 coaches from all across Canada. The clinic which took place at the beautiful Oak Island Inn and resort on the western shore of Nova Scotia was one of the largest gathering of coaches in Canada over the past 20 years.

KidSport™ is a national children's program that helps kids overcome the financial barriers preventing or limiting their participation in organized sport.

KidSport™ Nova Scotia provides funding of up to $300/year/child for sport registration and/or equipment.

Click the KidSport Logo for more information.