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Judo club takes the battle to disabled youngsters

Apr 19 2009 by Phil Doherty, Sunday Sun

John said: “They have taken to judo like ducks to water.

“With those with ADHD it helps them concentrate and expend their energies, while the kids with autism need consistency in their lives and because judo is a regimented discipline, these autistic kids find it very suitable. It also helps them with human interactions, which can be problematic for those with autism, as they have to interact with their partners to get the techniques correct.

“We also have two Down’s syndrome students who train with the regular mainstream judo players and they help to break down barriers that can exist between disabled people and others.”

The club is so keen its able-bodied members understand what it’s like to train with a disability that they blindfold them so they can find out what it is like to fight as a blind person.

John said: “But we also tie their legs together so they can see what its like to compete like our cerebral palsy player.

“They then understand how hard it can be and this means they have major respect for those who compete with disabilities.”

Tickets for the Marfest can be booked by emailing organiser Peter Seth on psethp@yahoo.co.uk. To join Washington Judo Club, phone John on 0191-417 6468.

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