Our Mission

Our Mission is to continue to be a thriving part of the Hamilton community. Allowing people from all walks of life to enjoy our sport.

Our History

Formed over 50 years ago in the old town of Hamilton. Self sufficient from the start, it automatically became a sport focal point of the community. One of the principle features was its ability to have its own premises which allowed the development of top Scottish, British and European champions. These players were able to train every evening at little cost which was the enabler for there progression in the sport.

Moving from the old town to Hill House in the 90’s has expanded the club’s catchment area. The junior classes can have 40 kids on the mat at one time. The Senior class up to 15 black belts on certain nights. Hamilton always have visiting Judo players from around the world at the sessions to try their own abilities in our legendary Randori sessions.

The fundamentals have never changed in which all players are encouraged to develop their own coaching skills and pass on the Hamilton ethos, to the next generation. Hamilton were particular successful during the 70's, 80's and 90's. With a brand of Judo which was synonymous with high energy, complex hip techniques and the ability to transitions between the standing and ground work disciplines at speed, without a change in quality.

The pillars of the clubs success are routed in the training belief that with uchi-komi and high intense Randori sessions. Each individual player will develop into a rounded competitor due to the focused training.

Our Coaches

John Dam

John's combat knowledge of judo is second to none. An outstanding player does not always make for a excelent coach. John has continue to develop his coaching style and at this stage he is the best coach in the British Isles.

John Kane

One of the greatest hip technique’s that has graced the UK in over 50 years. When he fought in competition, he was able to show hip technique’s in its purest form, with a touch of showmanship to finish it off. As a coach he is able to break down the mechanics of each technique to provided his students with the secret of how to do Judo, without the need of strength and to rely on its purest form.

Amanda Weir

Her range of knowledge of Judo and her speed of execution is top class on a Judo mat. This means that Amanda coaches a type of judo that relies on balance to gain maximum advantage in any situation. One of the top female coaches in the country.

Jim McGranachan

Jim's fighting style is all about perfection and agility. At times beating opponents with technique’s that players had only seen in judo books, not in actual real life. Excellent experienced coach that gives balance, passion and a different insight into a range of standing and ground work technique’s.

Training

The transition between ground work and up top is a major aspect that needs to be factor into your training

In this clip John Dam is developing your movement left and right when you are on the ground.

Ground work can be tough especially when you are 20 kilos lighter than your opponent...

So you need to use all your levers when you are trying to control and move the player. In this clip John Dam using his legs to provide the power. Play close attention to his right arm in this video

Judo is not performed in a static enviroment so it is important to be fully aware of all your tools at any time

The majority of Judo Players will be looking to grab an arm and turn when faced with this situation. John Dam uses the opponents own montemum to create the space for a quick and simply strangle.