Q: How old does my child have to be to start Judo?
A: Your child can start learning judo from as young as 5.
We also offer play-based fundamentals classes for younger children aged 3-4 years. This is a relaxed fun session which does not involve any judo-based activities, but teaches the fundamentals of body movement in a game based environment.
Q: Does my child have to do competitions?
A. The short answer is only if he or she wants to. There is no obligation to enter judo tournaments, but many of our players really enjoy the experience so we do offer several beginner-level competitions every year for our younger players. This offers a relaxed environment in which children can try competing if they would like to.
Q: How does my child move up the judo belts?
A: We hold three gradings a year, and your child will be offered the opportunity to move up the levels if he or she is ready. Again, there is no obligation to grade, although most children really look forward to getting their next mon-grade!
Q: Are you fully insured?
A: Yes, Happidojo is fully insured with the BJA British Judo Association
Our BJA coaches have many years experience in judo and hold Safeguarding and Protection Certificates, First Aid Certificates, and are DBS checked.
Q: Do I have to stay with my child during the class?
A: We ask that for children up to the age of 12, a parent or guardian remains at the session. We have found that this helps to provide an extra layer of reassurance to both parents and children, and really helps them relax and enjoy the class.
Q: What is the Yellow Belt Challenge?
A: Happidojo is currently linked to The Yellow Belt Challenge which is run through The Fighting Chance Project, aimed at 11-25 year olds. It provides eligible students with their first lesson free, followed by a BJA Licence free for 12months, a signed autograph card, two/four gradings (Depending on whether you are a Junior on Mon grades or Senior on Kyu grades) and a free Gi on completion of at least 12 lessons. For more information please speak to Paula, or see www.yellowbeltchallenge.co.uk
Q: What do you offer for more advanced players?
Happidojo is proud to represent the BJA Eastern Area at both local and national tournament level and we have had many players over the years who have competed at Local, County, National and International Level. We have recently set up our very own Happidojo Performance Squad for our more experienced judoka, and we run masterclasses and regular specialist training sessions that teach competition technique.
Q: When can I begin?
A: The first session is free and you can start as soon as you want to! For further details, or to book a class, please contact head coach Colin McCallum on 07905278857, or Paula McCallum on 07796473109 or message Happidojo on Facebook.
Q: How much does it cost and do I need a licence?
A: After you or your child have had their first free introductory session, Paula will give you a Welcome Pack which will explain how to set up membership, plus further details on judo uniforms and how to obtain a BJA licence.
Q: We are a school – can we get a free taster session?
If you are interested in a free taster session for your school, please contact head coach Colin McCallum on 07905278857 or email colinhappidojo@gmail.com