The event brought together 23 students from four countries: the UK, Australia, Canada and France. Six days of intensive learning, technical refinement and assessment were scheduled under the guidance of the IJF Academy’s experts Envic Galea (Chair), Dr Tibor Kozsla (Head of Institution), Dr Slavisa Bradic (Education Director), Mark Huizinga (Olympic champion and IJF Academy expert) and Florin Daniel Lascau (Sport Director).
Building Knowledge and Skills
The UCJI programme is designed to prepare the next generation of judo instructors. Students complete an 18-week online course, with theory and assessments, before taking part in the practical session which tests technical, coaching and physical competencies.
In Walsall, candidates trained daily in a specially prepared dojo, working through tachi-waza and ne-waza, kata and coaching methodology. Emphasis was placed on correct technique, effective communication and uke skills, ensuring that participants return to their clubs with the knowledge and confidence to pass on judo’s values and skills.
British Judo Association Executive Committee members visited the session, underlining the importance of the Academy in strengthening coaching standards across the UK and beyond.
A Memorable Highlight
Among the many success stories of the week, a particularly inspiring moment came from Eddie Cassidy, an 81-year-old 8th dan and JudoScotland Hall of Fame member, who became the oldest ever participant to complete the UCJI practical session. A former Team GB competitor and European team champion, Cassidy passed all requirements, demonstrating once again that judo is truly a lifelong journey. His achievement was warmly celebrated by his peers and the Academy staff, adding an emotional and motivational note to an already successful week of learning.
The successful Walsall session once again underlines the value of the IJF Academy as a global platform for coach education. By combining structured online study with rigorous practical assessment, the UCJI programme equips instructors with the technical expertise, pedagogical tools and values-based approach needed to develop future generations of judoka.
With participants returning home to clubs across four countries, the impact of this session will be felt well beyond the West Midlands of England, strengthening coaching, promoting lifelong learning and ensuring that the philosophy of judo continues to thrive.