Queensland investing in the business of Judo
- jnunan23
- Jul 7
- 2 min read
Coaching, the business of judo, and athlete development were the focus for a swathe of judo clubs across central and northern Queensland recently visited by Judo Australia’s National Participation Manager, Shane Alvisio.
Shane’s two week tour of the region was made possible by Judo Queensland’s successful application for Active Industry Based Funding, targeted specifically to help Judo clubs focus on the business side of what they do.
With Coaching Accreditation Framework (CAF) courses run in Gladstone, Townsville and Cairns, practical and business issues were front and centre for the 18 new or reaccrediting coaches who attended.
Their judo is often in very safe hands, Shane explains, but by sharing best practice from the clubs he visits nationwide, remote clubs are able to assess what will help move their business forward also. They also gain the knowledge that their standards for judo, approaches to grading and access to the pathways available for competitive athletes is on par with any big city club.
Participants hailed from clubs across the region including Rockhampton PCYC, Mackay MMA Judo, Nippon Seibukan Judo Club, and the Innisfail, Townsville, and Mackay Kodokan Judo Clubs.
During the CAF courses and the club visits, Shane encourages coaches and members alike to bring up the topics most relevant to local clubs, including marketing, retention, and insurance.
Others are more athlete-focused, discussing long-term Athlete Development (LTAD), Sports Integrity issues, the Paralympic program and how players might qualify, Adaptive Judo and what this can look like on the mat, and opportunities for extending judo programs such as the Dynamic Balance anti-falling program for older adults.
“It is so important that all levels of Judo are working together and recognising the work being done. What we want to do is help to bring consistency of practice, as well as consistency of opportunity across the country. Judo Australia is grateful to Judo Queensland for seeking the funding to ensure regional clubs were able to welcome me to their own dojos to experience their challenges, and potentially offer some solutions.”
One challenge Shane feels is poorly understood is just how much commitment is required to be a regional judoka.
“They feel – quite rightly – it’s important for city-based judoka to recognise just how far some members have to travel, just to get together for a tournament, hold an interclub, attend a course or just to support each other. Mackay to Mossman is a ten hour drive, so unless we plan it, plan for it, it doesn’t just happen,” Shane said.
“If you are a judoka heading up north for work, or a holiday – every Judo Club in Central and North Queensland is keen to welcome you onto the mat! They want judoka of all grades, shapes and sizes to visit and share judo knowledge and fresh perspectives on what judo can mean in your life.”
“For me, personally, I always have a great time in the North, and would like to thank each and every club for their hospitality and friendship,” he concluded.
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