What is Judo and why should I start?

Judo is an exciting, dynamic martial art and sport. Originating in Japan in the early 1900s and becoming increasingly popular across Europe throughout much of the 20th century. Judo has also been an olympic sport for over 50 years following it's introduction in the Tokyo games in 1964.

Judo helps to build self confidence, fitness and gives you the skills to feel confident in all aspects of daily life. It is a great way to get fit and meet new friends.

The Coaches

All our coaches are enhanced CRB checked and hold 1st aid certificates.

  • Fred Pilgrim - 6th Dan

    Fred is a former Area Technical Director for the BJA, who has helped to develop many coaches and referees in the North West of England. He was awarded for his hard work as Technical Director to 6th Dan.

  • Bill Redman - 4th Dan

    Bill is a level 3 coach who has supported a host successful players and coaches during his 47 years in Judo. Bill fought to 3rd Dan before injury put pay to competition. Bill's coaching role call includes 3 senior internationals, 1 Paralympic international and 7 junior internationals. Bill has also had at least one player to represent the NW area at national level every year for the last 30 years.

  • Craig Redman - 3rd Dan

    Craig is a Level 2 UKCC Coach. After winning a silver medal in the National trials Craig was promoted to cadet international winning 3 caps for GB in the early 90's. Craig has been in Judo 30+ years and is now the lead coach in the senior practice. Craig fought to 2nd Dan winning his belt from a line up.

  • Mark Minards - 2nd Dan

    Mark is a level 2 UKCC coach. Mark has been in judo over 35 years and was instrumental in securing the funding for the new Dojo. Mark was one of the senior coaches at Liverpool University Judo Club during the late 80's and early 90's. Mark fought to 2nd Dan winning his belt from a line up.

The Dojo

Waterloo Judo Club has been established since the 1960s. Originally set up by only 4 people, the club now boasts a membership well over 100. We have our own purpose built dojo as you can see from the photos above, complete with a sprung floor practice area, male and female showers and changing areas.

Driving Directions

Getting to the club is very simple. We are located right by the Crosby Marina Park. Coming from the Motorway, head straight down Dunnings Bridge road to Seaforth docks. Once at the Dock Roundabout, turn right and continue towards the Mersey Mission to Seamen. Once here, turn left and follow this road. You then need to take the second road on the right. Once you reach the bottom of this street you should then see the Judo club ahead of you.

Public Transport Directions

Train is by far the easiest method to reach the Judo club. Simply get the train to Waterloo Train Station, and leave the station via the staircase. Once at the top, turn left and then continue down (South Road) till you reach Bath Street on your left. (Bollarded Road). Go down Bath street and the Judo Club will be on your left.

Latest News

  • Competition Success

    We recently had some players enter the North West Four Counties which is a regional competition. This is a step up from local competition.

    We were very successful and took home plenty of medals: Gold - Faye Brennan, Callum Ellis. Silver - Liam Magee, Bronze - Zac Howard, Josh Owen and Rory Armstrong.

  • September Newsletter

    The September newsletter is going out now, please pick one up to stay up to date with what is going on in the club.

  • Kendal Coloured Belt Comp

    Congratulations to the junior players taking medals at the Kendal Coloured Belt competition. They showed great heart in some very tough contests and we came away with medals from each player. Tremendous effort.

  • Waterloo Judo Club T Shirts

    Now on sale at £10 from Indy Visuals located in Jono's Workwear Seaforth Road, Seaforth. There is a small stock held at the Club.

  • Wirral Mini Mons

    We had 8 players take part, with them all taking medals on the day. All competitors Judo was excellent. Well done to you all.

Starting Judo

Judo is one of the most beginner friendly sports available. The costs for starting are rather small in comparison to other sports, with a junior licence only costing £26 and a Judogi costing around £15. Our club number for applying for a licence is 736.

Judo classes cost £2.50 for children and £4 for seniors.

Your First Class

When attending for the first time, it can be a little daunting. All we ask is that you bring comfortable clothing such as jogging bottoms and a t-shirt to change into. We will provide you with any other equipment. There is no fitness requirement to begin Judo, and everyone is given special attention in order to learn the basics.

Your first class will start with a warm up, and some exercises designed to improve balance, co-ordination and generally aid in the development of good Judo technique. An instructor will then guide you through learning how to fall safely and instruct you with your first throwing technique.

Getting In Touch

To get in touch with the club, please contact the club secretary Mark Minards.

Call 0151 476 2000 and ask to speak to Mark, or alternatively you can email Mark at mm@mp-law.co.uk

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Our Classes

Please see the Table below for class times. Please note beginners are welcome on any practice nights.

MondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturdaySunday
6:30pm to 8pm
Juniors

8:15pm to 9:45pm
Seniors
7pm to 8pm
Juniors

8:15pm to 9:45pm
Seniors
7pm
Aikido Practice
6:30pm to 8pm
Juniors

8:15pm to 9:45pm
Seniors
7pm to 8:30pm
Juniors

8:30pm to 10pm
Seniors
Saturday
Aikido

11am
Sunday
TBA