The art and sport of Judo finds its spiritual home at The Kodokan Institute in Tokyo – where better to spend a week developing your skills as a Coach?
Judo Australia is inviting Expressions of Interest from CAF-accredited Judo coaches keen to deepen their understanding of the sport through the six day Club Coaches Kodokan Study Camp – March 15-22, 2026 – where participants will train with Kodokan coaches, undergo extensive theory sessions, and stay in the Kodokan dormitory.
Previous participants have nominated this Camp as a highlight of their judo journey, both in terms of the formal learning from the Kodokan coaches, but also the mutual support and camaraderie of the Australian (and New Zealand) contingent.
For the 2026 camp, Judo Australia is keen to encourage female coaches to take up the challenge.
One of the 2025 participants, Niesha Brooking, was one of only three women in the 2025 group, and the only New Zealander. “It was a pleasure to have had this shared experience with a team of such dedicated coaches. They conducted themselves professionally, respectfully and with great spirit.”
Niesha described the course as “a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with top-tier instruction, deep camaraderie, lasting friendships, and profoundly rewarding growth.”
Several attendees noted that the course is both mentally and physically challenging. “Some days on the mat stretched beyond eight hours, yet everyone approached each session with enthusiasm, committed to their learning and in assisting in the growth of others. I’m grateful to have been part of such a dedicated team,” said James Zahra of Wollongong, New South Wales.
Judo Australia national participation manager stressed the need for participants to be in good physical shape to ensure they are ready to get on the mat and participate at the level required. He also encouraged female coaches to apply.
“We haven’t had anywhere as many women participate in this opportunity as are represented by the contribution female coaches make in clubs around the country, and that means some students in some clubs are missing out on the chance to share these lessons.”
To be selected to attend this course, coaches must be members of Judo Australia via our member states, at least 18 years of age, a minimum brown belt, and CAF-accredited or close to finalising their CAF-accreditation process. Travel must be self-funded and participants will book their own flights to and from Tokyo. Accommodation for selected participants will be provided by the Kodokan.
To be considered for this opportunity, please complete our Expression of Interest form and submit prior to the deadline, February 9th, 2026.
For more information, contact Shane Alvisio (salvisio@ausjudo.com.au) or tel: 0410 044 205.
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