There has been a change in times for Friday as a gymnastics class starts at 1 O'clock.
Training time will now start at 11 and finish at 1 O'clock. Can you leave a comment or text me please to let me know if you will be attending.
Thank you
Bill...
Wednesday 31 December 2008
Thursday 18 December 2008
Training Times Over Christmas
The club is opening for under 20 and Cadet training on the 27th and 28th of December from 12 noon till 2pm.
And again will be open same times on Tuesday 30th and Friday the 2nd of January.
Any questions call me on 07845030876
Leave a message if I don't answer please.
Bill...
And again will be open same times on Tuesday 30th and Friday the 2nd of January.
Any questions call me on 07845030876
Leave a message if I don't answer please.
Bill...
Tuesday 16 December 2008
Northern Home Counties Championships
Sunday see 4 Ford players take part in the NHC Championships. Great performances from the players. It was a good oppertunity to try and put in to place some of the technical changes we have been doing in the club, it will take time but I'm sure the benefits will come when they become second nature.
Duncan Ward, -46kg, put in a great performance, the young 12 year old was in a pool of 4 but 1 withdrew leaving 2 14 year squad players in the pool. Duncan gave both a very good fight and it was only his lack of competitive experience that he got caught on the ground, something we can work on, considering the age difference, a great performance.
Richard Jackson -50kg, also had a good day, 3 strong wins see him see him in to the final. the fight was well fought but trying to engage movement and technique that had been worked on put Richard a little of key and just lost a very close fought contest to take silver.
Matthew Kavanagh, -60kg, had a good performance too, going up in to a new weight group See Matt winning through his group with very good command, implimenting moves we had been working on, a bit hesitent at times but this was due to getting his head around new stratages.. Matt won through to the final and face the current National Champion, It was an entertaining fight were Matt was caught early for a yuko score. Keeping the pressure up through the fight Matt got close, but not close enough, which gave Matthew the silver, a good performance.
Tom Williams, +81kg, had 2 other players in his both good players. His first fight was an 18 year old 105kg player, very strong but Tom handled him very well picking up a few minor scores with diferent techniques. A nice ippon came from Tom when his opponent put his weight in to an O Soto Gari, with great hands, Tom took control replaced his left foot and countered with an O Soto Gaeshi for a big ippon..
His second fight was a 90kg squad player again Tom dominated from the start producing a couple of minor scores before scoring wazari with sumi gaeshi and then another a few seconds later.. Good performance to take gold.
Well Done all...
Bill...
Duncan Ward, -46kg, put in a great performance, the young 12 year old was in a pool of 4 but 1 withdrew leaving 2 14 year squad players in the pool. Duncan gave both a very good fight and it was only his lack of competitive experience that he got caught on the ground, something we can work on, considering the age difference, a great performance.
Richard Jackson -50kg, also had a good day, 3 strong wins see him see him in to the final. the fight was well fought but trying to engage movement and technique that had been worked on put Richard a little of key and just lost a very close fought contest to take silver.
Matthew Kavanagh, -60kg, had a good performance too, going up in to a new weight group See Matt winning through his group with very good command, implimenting moves we had been working on, a bit hesitent at times but this was due to getting his head around new stratages.. Matt won through to the final and face the current National Champion, It was an entertaining fight were Matt was caught early for a yuko score. Keeping the pressure up through the fight Matt got close, but not close enough, which gave Matthew the silver, a good performance.
Tom Williams, +81kg, had 2 other players in his both good players. His first fight was an 18 year old 105kg player, very strong but Tom handled him very well picking up a few minor scores with diferent techniques. A nice ippon came from Tom when his opponent put his weight in to an O Soto Gari, with great hands, Tom took control replaced his left foot and countered with an O Soto Gaeshi for a big ippon..
His second fight was a 90kg squad player again Tom dominated from the start producing a couple of minor scores before scoring wazari with sumi gaeshi and then another a few seconds later.. Good performance to take gold.
Well Done all...
Bill...
Wednesday 3 December 2008
European Masters in Prague
Myself and Mike Allen travelled out to Prague recently to compete in the European Masters. This was a well run competition in a new venue which held four mat area's and enough seating for about 1200 spectators, and was located about 15 minutes from the official hotel.
Mike had a hard draw with a very fit looking Frenchman first fight, Mike had a bye previously so could see what he was to be facing. The Frenchman was fast and strong but Mike was coping well until he dropped into a seoi nage, this was blocked and the Frenchman applied a strangle for a submission..Mike was pulled back in, then fought a tall Slovenian, Mike dominated the fight and with no golden score got all 3 flags. His next fight was against the Czech, a great performance see Mike win this comfortably.
We then had a repeat of the first fight, a Frenchman, a drop seoi nage and a strangle. a good performance and a 7th place...
I on the other hand, had a German first fight, I dont want to seem disrespectful and I know you cant go by looks but remember thinking, if I dont win this fight I'm retiring..
After a little grip fighting I set him up for a drop seoi nage and threw for 10.
My next was a Turk who had had a bye. I must admit, I did let him frustrate me, by just dropping all the time, 3 minutes was not long enough for me to get in to the fight. I received a penalty for pacivity and he received one for dropping, although in my opinion, he should of received another. Any, he got the decision on flags, he lost his next against the Russian which put me out..
NOTE TO SELF, MUST START DOING SOME JUDO!!
Bill...
Thursday 30 October 2008
Belgium and Holland Comp's
Last weekend see Ford Judo Club travelling to Holland to compete in 2 competitions, 1 in Belgium for the Flanders Cup and the other in Holland to Meilo. Saturday at Flanders was a mixed day, with some players looking a little out of salts while some strong performances were given by others. Kelly Staddon, although not complaining was feeling poorly and lacked her usual sparkle, even fighting well under par, it showed her mettle by getting in to the final but was not able to perform to her usual standard but credit to her still took silver.
Dru Oakes fighting Europes number one first fight was caught cold and was armlocked early in to the fight, although putting in a good performance on his second fight was unable to progress further.
Tom Williams got a couple of good wins under his belt before meeting Belguims number 1 player, unfortunately Tom received a penalty near the end of their fight for a infringement they were both doing, Tom had no choice but to chase the score. A good performance from Tom who is in a transition period trying to address his style of fighting..
Both Matthew Kavanagh and Richard Jackson fought well under their normal standard but this was accepted as a bad day and redemption was possible as they were both entered in the comp the next day..
Frankie Goulding had a good day, giving away a few kilo's in his category he never looked out classed in any of his fights. His semi final fight went in to golden score after the referee's neglected to award what was in my opinion a score before the final time. The fight went against Frankie in golden score but a good performane by Frankie.
He went on to win the bronze medal, giving a strong performance and some good judo..
Sunday at Meilo was a good day as judo was concerned. In my opinion it was some of the best judo I had seen from the age groups attending. Many ippon scores were being seen on each of the 6 mat areas and I believe this spurred on the Ford players to raise their game.
Charlie Jackson was the first to fight Having a bye first fight, with restrictions in place Charlie had to tighten up his performance, and he certainly raised his game, winning the next 3 fights to take gold.
Matthew and Richard were fighting at the same time but there timing was good as one finished the other was going on. Matthew had an extremely hard fist fight with his opponent attacking with strong seoi nage's but Matt was able to ride them and controlled the fight and went on to win. losing out in the semi finals Matt dug deep to put in a great performance to win the bronze medal.
Richard had a bye first fight and then caught his next opponent with a fast ippon seoi nage for ten in the first 30 seconds of the fight, next was the semi finals and again Richard dominated with his grips and unsettling his partner with some good judo.
Richards transition work in the final was superb and good to watch. After a knockdown Richard was able to turn his partner with a sangaku turnover, although Richard held on long enough for a yuko score his opponent escaped only for Richard to repeat the feat and hold for ten..
A contrast in the boys performances from the previous day, but it was more of a reflection on what they are capable of acheiving....
Well done to all, a great weekend overall..
Bill...
Dru Oakes fighting Europes number one first fight was caught cold and was armlocked early in to the fight, although putting in a good performance on his second fight was unable to progress further.
Tom Williams got a couple of good wins under his belt before meeting Belguims number 1 player, unfortunately Tom received a penalty near the end of their fight for a infringement they were both doing, Tom had no choice but to chase the score. A good performance from Tom who is in a transition period trying to address his style of fighting..
Both Matthew Kavanagh and Richard Jackson fought well under their normal standard but this was accepted as a bad day and redemption was possible as they were both entered in the comp the next day..
Frankie Goulding had a good day, giving away a few kilo's in his category he never looked out classed in any of his fights. His semi final fight went in to golden score after the referee's neglected to award what was in my opinion a score before the final time. The fight went against Frankie in golden score but a good performane by Frankie.
He went on to win the bronze medal, giving a strong performance and some good judo..
Sunday at Meilo was a good day as judo was concerned. In my opinion it was some of the best judo I had seen from the age groups attending. Many ippon scores were being seen on each of the 6 mat areas and I believe this spurred on the Ford players to raise their game.
Charlie Jackson was the first to fight Having a bye first fight, with restrictions in place Charlie had to tighten up his performance, and he certainly raised his game, winning the next 3 fights to take gold.
Matthew and Richard were fighting at the same time but there timing was good as one finished the other was going on. Matthew had an extremely hard fist fight with his opponent attacking with strong seoi nage's but Matt was able to ride them and controlled the fight and went on to win. losing out in the semi finals Matt dug deep to put in a great performance to win the bronze medal.
Richard had a bye first fight and then caught his next opponent with a fast ippon seoi nage for ten in the first 30 seconds of the fight, next was the semi finals and again Richard dominated with his grips and unsettling his partner with some good judo.
Richards transition work in the final was superb and good to watch. After a knockdown Richard was able to turn his partner with a sangaku turnover, although Richard held on long enough for a yuko score his opponent escaped only for Richard to repeat the feat and hold for ten..
A contrast in the boys performances from the previous day, but it was more of a reflection on what they are capable of acheiving....
Well done to all, a great weekend overall..
Bill...
Thursday 16 October 2008
A Band Nationals
Sunday the 5th of October see 3 players from Ford Judo Club travel to Walsall to take part in the under 12 National Championships. Charlie Jackson, Tom Thurston and James O'Shea all fought and hopefully one way or another come away wiser than before they fought? Charlie had a bad day and just did not have a chance to get in to his stride. The results of his 3 matches did not reflect in his judo ability at all, and we've heard it many times before, it was just one of those days..
James had some tough fights and was in a pool of 5. James is relatively new to competitive judo but made a good account of himself which bodes well for the future. James won his last fight securing him the Bronze medal..
Tom, also in a pool of 5 looked strong from the beginning, looking sharp and ready for action. He won his first 2 fights which would have been enough to put him through in the other pools which had four players. He then lost his next 2 unfortunately and was then knocked of of the comp.
I have high hopes for these players, they show committment and skill and are very eager to make it to the top..
Well done everybody..
Bill...
James had some tough fights and was in a pool of 5. James is relatively new to competitive judo but made a good account of himself which bodes well for the future. James won his last fight securing him the Bronze medal..
Tom, also in a pool of 5 looked strong from the beginning, looking sharp and ready for action. He won his first 2 fights which would have been enough to put him through in the other pools which had four players. He then lost his next 2 unfortunately and was then knocked of of the comp.
I have high hopes for these players, they show committment and skill and are very eager to make it to the top..
Well done everybody..
Bill...
Tuesday 14 October 2008
National Championships
Well done to all who competed in this years National Championships. What a contrast to last year. Saturday see 5 Ford players fighting with great performances from all. Our 2 youngest, DJ Irving and Duncan Ward both gave their heart and soul with both of them placing. DJ gained a 5th place while Duncan a 7th, both very entertaining to watch and both gained essential experience for future competitions.
Great performances from our three squad players see all 3 gaining medals and valuable points to get them re appointed to the National squad.. Richard Jackson put in another strong performance and collected a Bronze medal to go along with the Bronze he won at the Heart of England.
Matt Kavanagh had a good days and was a far reflection of last years Nationals, much more focused and positive. matthew won his way through to the finals but I think the long wait between the rounds and the finals took its toll and Matt had lost a bit of his sharpness, but did very well to win the silver medal.
All 3 had some great throws on the day and Brandon Tutthill was ammong them, not sure what the referees were looking at but thanks to Mike Varey the photographer we had an instant reply of one of the best ippons of the day, but yes you guessed it, the ref's gave it wazari? Again a good perfromance from Brandon see him through to the finals.. Unfortunately, again Brandon was caught a little flat footed, a good Silver to go along with his Silver he earned at the Heart of England.
Sunday see the elder players fighting and the B and D band girls. Again, I was pleased with all their performances, it was touch and go whether Frankie and Dru would compete as both had picked up tummy bugs leading up to the weekend. I think this had a larger effect on Dru as he was not he's usual self, although he won 3 of his 5 matches he never really looked himself.
Mistakes are made to learn from and hopefully Frankie has learnt from his mitake in his first fight, completely dominating the fight and several scores ahead, including 1 wazari, Frankie attempted a very weak attack which his partner gladly took advantage of.. Frankie then came back putting that fight behind him to win the Bronze medal, a good performance.
Ryan had been given a task to go out and play his partners. Move and hit, move and hit.. His 1st fight see him against the evential silver medallist but gave him a great fight achieving what he set out to do, nearly catching his opponent in the opening seconds.. A good performance from Ryan and we hope he gets to reach the potential I know he has.
Tom's weight were called early and Tom was first up, although his opponent was at the same disadvantage as Tom, he seemed to cope with it better than Tom. After Tom collected a penalty, the fight slipped from his control.
After a little disagrement whether he did or did not want to continue, Tom returned to the fighting area and continued to win his way through to the Bronze medal.
Shaun Fauzens had a good day winning 4 of his six fights in a new weight category for him. A change in fighting style is required for Shaun and we see the biginnings of this at the weekend, a good effort and a 7th place gained.
Kelly Staddon too fought very well in her early rounds winning some in the first few seconds of the match. Her final pitched her against an opponent who Kelly had lost to at the H of E quite early in the fight with a nice ashi-waza. It was a much closer fight this time with Kelly doing much of the attacking, unfortunately they were not to be decisive enough for points. Another strong performance from Kelly and a well earned Silver medal.
Chloe Jackson was again on form and was looking forward to meeting some of the older girls in the group, although not 16 till November Chloe was a strong contender for the finals. She won though the quater finals to meet the Scottish player that had beat her in the H of E, controlling the fight very well and as planned, Chloe had won her place in the final. Unfortunately Chloe picked up a wrist injury in the first seconds of the fight but continued to fight on until the wrist got caught up in her opponents gi which then falsed Chloe to withdraw from the bout and visit the hospital where it was discovered she had a fracture of the Radius bone? just above the wrist...
All in all, apart from a couple of mishaps a good weekend, and if I believe the information I have received is correct finished 2 in the medal tally?
Good job everyone...
Bill...
Great performances from our three squad players see all 3 gaining medals and valuable points to get them re appointed to the National squad.. Richard Jackson put in another strong performance and collected a Bronze medal to go along with the Bronze he won at the Heart of England.
Matt Kavanagh had a good days and was a far reflection of last years Nationals, much more focused and positive. matthew won his way through to the finals but I think the long wait between the rounds and the finals took its toll and Matt had lost a bit of his sharpness, but did very well to win the silver medal.
All 3 had some great throws on the day and Brandon Tutthill was ammong them, not sure what the referees were looking at but thanks to Mike Varey the photographer we had an instant reply of one of the best ippons of the day, but yes you guessed it, the ref's gave it wazari? Again a good perfromance from Brandon see him through to the finals.. Unfortunately, again Brandon was caught a little flat footed, a good Silver to go along with his Silver he earned at the Heart of England.
Sunday see the elder players fighting and the B and D band girls. Again, I was pleased with all their performances, it was touch and go whether Frankie and Dru would compete as both had picked up tummy bugs leading up to the weekend. I think this had a larger effect on Dru as he was not he's usual self, although he won 3 of his 5 matches he never really looked himself.
Mistakes are made to learn from and hopefully Frankie has learnt from his mitake in his first fight, completely dominating the fight and several scores ahead, including 1 wazari, Frankie attempted a very weak attack which his partner gladly took advantage of.. Frankie then came back putting that fight behind him to win the Bronze medal, a good performance.
Ryan had been given a task to go out and play his partners. Move and hit, move and hit.. His 1st fight see him against the evential silver medallist but gave him a great fight achieving what he set out to do, nearly catching his opponent in the opening seconds.. A good performance from Ryan and we hope he gets to reach the potential I know he has.
Tom's weight were called early and Tom was first up, although his opponent was at the same disadvantage as Tom, he seemed to cope with it better than Tom. After Tom collected a penalty, the fight slipped from his control.
After a little disagrement whether he did or did not want to continue, Tom returned to the fighting area and continued to win his way through to the Bronze medal.
Shaun Fauzens had a good day winning 4 of his six fights in a new weight category for him. A change in fighting style is required for Shaun and we see the biginnings of this at the weekend, a good effort and a 7th place gained.
Kelly Staddon too fought very well in her early rounds winning some in the first few seconds of the match. Her final pitched her against an opponent who Kelly had lost to at the H of E quite early in the fight with a nice ashi-waza. It was a much closer fight this time with Kelly doing much of the attacking, unfortunately they were not to be decisive enough for points. Another strong performance from Kelly and a well earned Silver medal.
Chloe Jackson was again on form and was looking forward to meeting some of the older girls in the group, although not 16 till November Chloe was a strong contender for the finals. She won though the quater finals to meet the Scottish player that had beat her in the H of E, controlling the fight very well and as planned, Chloe had won her place in the final. Unfortunately Chloe picked up a wrist injury in the first seconds of the fight but continued to fight on until the wrist got caught up in her opponents gi which then falsed Chloe to withdraw from the bout and visit the hospital where it was discovered she had a fracture of the Radius bone? just above the wrist...
All in all, apart from a couple of mishaps a good weekend, and if I believe the information I have received is correct finished 2 in the medal tally?
Good job everyone...
Bill...
Saturday 27 September 2008
Bills Funeral
What a day!!! Bill would be smiling from one ear to the other with the send off he got. A very sad but beautiful day, the sun shone like it has not shone all year, so much warmth. I couldn't count how many people attended, far to many but each one did Bill proud. I know Bills family were so brave, it is hard to put in to words my admiration I have for all of them, all so strong...
I have attached a letter I received from Derek Hopkins...
Unfortnately I could not attend the Funeral but I thought I'd write something on Bill
I haven't known Bill Ward long and I don't know him very well but he will always be with me following one day in Toronto.
I lost my Father in May 2005 and fought at High Wycombe two weeks later and I was a disaster. So I go to the World Masters in Mississauga, Toronto not in the best of shape mentally. First round I have the previous years Gold medallist who beats me. So only a bronze to aim for. Then along comes Bill and he decides to be the matside coach. I think he was trying to be everyone's but he seemed to be mine.
We decide just to take things as they come and the 1st and second rounds were relatively easy - well I don't remember much anyway I only have video of one 16 second fight so...
Then comes the famous or infamous fight with Aziz Bendriss, who fights out of the NYAC Judo Club. We had a hard fight which Bill and I had decided I would fight tactically as Bill had seen that Aziz had won his previous fights by making his opponents look passive. So I worked hard and Aziz was given 2 shidos, I got a bit tired and I got one too. So scoreboard should say 2 Koka's to me and 1 to Aziz, but when the referee signals that Aziz as won we are dumbfounded to find that the scoreboard has the score 3 to 2 in Aziz's favor. Aziz says to the referee that this is wrong but he is waved away. Bill's first words are "Stay There, Do Not come Off" and stalks round the mat to the officials.
30 minutes I stand in the middle of the mat (well I think it was that long but it seemed longer) and Bill fought my case including finding video evidence that the scoreboard was incorrect and Aziz backing Bill up that the result was wrong. The result was changed and thanks to Bill and my opponent that fight is won.
Next fight with a Brazilian gets me a photo in The World of Judo thanks to Bob Willingham and Bills instructions from the side and into the Bronze medal fight. My opponent is a Canadian who won the weight category in Japan, George Jobb.
We have a very hard fight that due to neither of us being able score goes to golden score. Bill is giving me instructions the whole time giving me great confidence. Off we go again and Georg attacks with Uchi Mata and I counter with Ura Nage for Ippon. My wife goes nuts and a lot of others are very pleased.
I com off and thank Bill for his help and he then tells me that as I was doing the counter he was going NO, NO, NO, in his head and when we landed it was a big YES....
I met George at the World Masters this year and he asked where Bill was. After telling him that Bill was not well he told me that he remembered Bill as the only matside coach he did not want to have against him. Bill's constant instructions and insight into what my opponent was trying to do was in his words "a pain in the ass".
My thanks and thoughts will always contain Bill for that single day which we did for my Father.
Bless the man his smile and his Judo
Derek
I have attached a letter I received from Derek Hopkins...
Unfortnately I could not attend the Funeral but I thought I'd write something on Bill
I haven't known Bill Ward long and I don't know him very well but he will always be with me following one day in Toronto.
I lost my Father in May 2005 and fought at High Wycombe two weeks later and I was a disaster. So I go to the World Masters in Mississauga, Toronto not in the best of shape mentally. First round I have the previous years Gold medallist who beats me. So only a bronze to aim for. Then along comes Bill and he decides to be the matside coach. I think he was trying to be everyone's but he seemed to be mine.
We decide just to take things as they come and the 1st and second rounds were relatively easy - well I don't remember much anyway I only have video of one 16 second fight so...
Then comes the famous or infamous fight with Aziz Bendriss, who fights out of the NYAC Judo Club. We had a hard fight which Bill and I had decided I would fight tactically as Bill had seen that Aziz had won his previous fights by making his opponents look passive. So I worked hard and Aziz was given 2 shidos, I got a bit tired and I got one too. So scoreboard should say 2 Koka's to me and 1 to Aziz, but when the referee signals that Aziz as won we are dumbfounded to find that the scoreboard has the score 3 to 2 in Aziz's favor. Aziz says to the referee that this is wrong but he is waved away. Bill's first words are "Stay There, Do Not come Off" and stalks round the mat to the officials.
30 minutes I stand in the middle of the mat (well I think it was that long but it seemed longer) and Bill fought my case including finding video evidence that the scoreboard was incorrect and Aziz backing Bill up that the result was wrong. The result was changed and thanks to Bill and my opponent that fight is won.
Next fight with a Brazilian gets me a photo in The World of Judo thanks to Bob Willingham and Bills instructions from the side and into the Bronze medal fight. My opponent is a Canadian who won the weight category in Japan, George Jobb.
We have a very hard fight that due to neither of us being able score goes to golden score. Bill is giving me instructions the whole time giving me great confidence. Off we go again and Georg attacks with Uchi Mata and I counter with Ura Nage for Ippon. My wife goes nuts and a lot of others are very pleased.
I com off and thank Bill for his help and he then tells me that as I was doing the counter he was going NO, NO, NO, in his head and when we landed it was a big YES....
I met George at the World Masters this year and he asked where Bill was. After telling him that Bill was not well he told me that he remembered Bill as the only matside coach he did not want to have against him. Bill's constant instructions and insight into what my opponent was trying to do was in his words "a pain in the ass".
My thanks and thoughts will always contain Bill for that single day which we did for my Father.
Bless the man his smile and his Judo
Derek
Tuesday 23 September 2008
Ron and Tracy Angus Bill Ward
I have just receive an email from Ron and Tracy Angus who are Canadians. As you can see by the attached letter, another player that has fond memories of Bill...
Bill Ward
I’m greatly saddened by the news Bill Ward passed away. He was a long time friend and Club mate. In facted he was one of the first judoka to befriend me on my arrival in Great Britain in 1976. Bill often went out of his way to show me the ropes while training in London, England.
As a training partner I recall Bill as a tough and intense opponent, that in the middle of an intense fight would break into a big cocky boyish grin leaving you with the uneasy feeling he just craked the secret to how he was going to throw you.
After many years, I recently had the pleasure to catch up with Bill at the World Masters held in Canada. We talked of Families, jobs, and mortgages. Joking how we must be getting old as there was little to no talk of judo.
However while watching Bill that day and admiring that he still had his great tactical abilities, I was very pleased to see during a tough fight, Bill break into that BIG cocky smile, showing that the young man I new in the 70’s with the boyish enjoyment of competing was still strong and alive in him.
That was the last time I saw him and I will remember Bill Ward as a Friend, a Training Partner and a Real Character in all the very best sense of the word .
Bill was one of a kind!
My sincere sympathy goes out to his family
Ron Angus
Canada
Bill Ward
I’m greatly saddened by the news Bill Ward passed away. He was a long time friend and Club mate. In facted he was one of the first judoka to befriend me on my arrival in Great Britain in 1976. Bill often went out of his way to show me the ropes while training in London, England.
As a training partner I recall Bill as a tough and intense opponent, that in the middle of an intense fight would break into a big cocky boyish grin leaving you with the uneasy feeling he just craked the secret to how he was going to throw you.
After many years, I recently had the pleasure to catch up with Bill at the World Masters held in Canada. We talked of Families, jobs, and mortgages. Joking how we must be getting old as there was little to no talk of judo.
However while watching Bill that day and admiring that he still had his great tactical abilities, I was very pleased to see during a tough fight, Bill break into that BIG cocky smile, showing that the young man I new in the 70’s with the boyish enjoyment of competing was still strong and alive in him.
That was the last time I saw him and I will remember Bill Ward as a Friend, a Training Partner and a Real Character in all the very best sense of the word .
Bill was one of a kind!
My sincere sympathy goes out to his family
Ron Angus
Canada
Monday 22 September 2008
Funeral Details For Friday
Bill's funeral will take place at South Essex Cemetery (Corbets Tey) Okendon Road,
RM14 2UY at 10.30. From there we will travel back to St Lukes Church for the Memorial Service at 11.30. St Lukes is in Front Lane, Cranham, RM14 1LL
The family have asked for no flowers but if people would like to make a donation to St Francis Hospice where Bill was looked after in his last days, that would be greatly appreciated.
All monies donated can be forwarded to B.F.Mulley & Sons, 254 St Mary's Lane, Upminster, essex, RM14 3DH. Please make cheques payable to St Francis Hospice.
Thank you all
See you soon
Bill...
RM14 2UY at 10.30. From there we will travel back to St Lukes Church for the Memorial Service at 11.30. St Lukes is in Front Lane, Cranham, RM14 1LL
The family have asked for no flowers but if people would like to make a donation to St Francis Hospice where Bill was looked after in his last days, that would be greatly appreciated.
All monies donated can be forwarded to B.F.Mulley & Sons, 254 St Mary's Lane, Upminster, essex, RM14 3DH. Please make cheques payable to St Francis Hospice.
Thank you all
See you soon
Bill...
Sunday 21 September 2008
Rest in Peace Bill
It is with great sadness to tell you Bill Ward lost his greatest battle yesterday morning. Bill was admitted to St Francis Hospice on Thursday, Bill past away peacefully at 9am Saturday morning.Our thoughts go out to Pippa and all the children. It is a pleasure to have known Bill and as of many of you will have some very fond memories.. Rest in Peace Bill, you are no longer in pain..
God bless
Bill...
God bless
Bill...
Monday 8 September 2008
Beginners and post codes.
This a message for Katrina and also for those who have sat nav's and require the post code of Harlequins Gymnastic Club...
Post Code Rm3 0ap
Katrina, any Senior beginners can come along to the Theory mat, Mondays at 7.30pm. Once they have been a few times then there are other classes they can join in with. I hope this helps.
Look forward to seeing you, where has that time gone?
Bill...
Post Code Rm3 0ap
Katrina, any Senior beginners can come along to the Theory mat, Mondays at 7.30pm. Once they have been a few times then there are other classes they can join in with. I hope this helps.
Look forward to seeing you, where has that time gone?
Bill...
Medal Haul For Ford
14 players from Ford Judo Club competed in the first Identifying competition of the year held at the National Indoor Arena in Birmingham on the 07.09.08. points are gained for medallist and 5th placed players. These points are carried forward to the National Championships where more points are gained by the same system. This is how the British Cadet Squad is selected for the following year. Very good performances were given by the clubs players, many moving up to age band categories they had not competed in before, making them the youngest in that class.
The performances bodes well for the National Championships that will be held in October at the Ice Hockey Stadium in Sheffield, this has been the events venue for the last couple years since moving from Crystal Palace which is having major repairs carried out.
The medallists were Tom Williams -81kg Gold, Dru Oaks -73kg Gold, Brandon Tutthill -42kg Silver, Chloe Jackson -52kg Silver, Kelly Staddon -44kg Silver, Frankie Goulding -90kg Bronze, Matthew Kavanagh -55kg Bronze and Richard Jackson -46kg Bronze.
Also picking up valuable 5th place points just narrowly missing out on Bronze medals were Abbie Willis and DJ Irving both giving promising performances.
Other members of the team who fought extremely hard and gave a very good account of themselves were Jon Jackson -73kg, Sean Fazons -60kg, Duncan Ward -42kg and Ryan Conroy -55kg. The lessons learnt from these tournaments are invaluable to each players future development, which help to build on strengths and improve weaknesses.
Bill...
The performances bodes well for the National Championships that will be held in October at the Ice Hockey Stadium in Sheffield, this has been the events venue for the last couple years since moving from Crystal Palace which is having major repairs carried out.
The medallists were Tom Williams -81kg Gold, Dru Oaks -73kg Gold, Brandon Tutthill -42kg Silver, Chloe Jackson -52kg Silver, Kelly Staddon -44kg Silver, Frankie Goulding -90kg Bronze, Matthew Kavanagh -55kg Bronze and Richard Jackson -46kg Bronze.
Also picking up valuable 5th place points just narrowly missing out on Bronze medals were Abbie Willis and DJ Irving both giving promising performances.
Other members of the team who fought extremely hard and gave a very good account of themselves were Jon Jackson -73kg, Sean Fazons -60kg, Duncan Ward -42kg and Ryan Conroy -55kg. The lessons learnt from these tournaments are invaluable to each players future development, which help to build on strengths and improve weaknesses.
Bill...
Tuesday 2 September 2008
First Night
Our first night at Harlequins went with only a few minor hitches, which hopefully will be ironed out over the next couple of weeks. The first class was surprisingly quiet but maybe kids were returning to school today after their summer break? Remember, we need new members for this mat, so if you know anyone, bring them along!
The sprung floor was great but the matter of the mats opening up needs to be rectified, hopefully velcro will solve that issue.
Not sure how many people, (if any) are looking at this site, please leave your names in the comments so I have an idea please...
See you all tomorrow night...
Bill...
The sprung floor was great but the matter of the mats opening up needs to be rectified, hopefully velcro will solve that issue.
Not sure how many people, (if any) are looking at this site, please leave your names in the comments so I have an idea please...
See you all tomorrow night...
Bill...
Monday 1 September 2008
The Day is Here
I would just like to thank John, Mike, Nicky, Keith and Mike for their help in moving clubs over the weekend, a very long day yesterday but we got there, thank you guy's, it was very much appreciated.
Well, the day is here, it will be our first night training at the Harlequins Gymnastics club tonight and I am hoping all our old members will find their way there without much problems. Ford Sports and Social Club have now closed their doors for the last time and our dojo is to be no more, over 40 years of judo history gone but hopefully some fond memories. Onwards and Upwards as they say, and Christine Evans who owns Harlequins has been very accommodating in helping us to set our club up at her club.
It will take a couple of weeks to settle down but I'm sure things will work out fine, you can even do your shopping will the kids do their training.. ha ha ha..
Make sure you are here for your first week and remember, if you know anyone who wants to start, bring them along. Also, if you used to do judo and was thinking of coming back, the new intermediate class would be great for you..
Look forward to seeing you all soon...
Bill...
Well, the day is here, it will be our first night training at the Harlequins Gymnastics club tonight and I am hoping all our old members will find their way there without much problems. Ford Sports and Social Club have now closed their doors for the last time and our dojo is to be no more, over 40 years of judo history gone but hopefully some fond memories. Onwards and Upwards as they say, and Christine Evans who owns Harlequins has been very accommodating in helping us to set our club up at her club.
It will take a couple of weeks to settle down but I'm sure things will work out fine, you can even do your shopping will the kids do their training.. ha ha ha..
Make sure you are here for your first week and remember, if you know anyone who wants to start, bring them along. Also, if you used to do judo and was thinking of coming back, the new intermediate class would be great for you..
Look forward to seeing you all soon...
Bill...
UK School Games
Not a bad weekend for Frankie Goulding over 81kg, Tom Williams -81kg and Dru oaks -73kg as they competed at Bath in the UK School Games, representing England. All 3 reached the semi finals with Frankie just losing out by a koka score, this gave Frankie the bronze medal. Some good scalps were taken by Frankie in the earlier rounds, so not a too bad a day for him.
Tom reached the semi's and his opponent was an old adversary but Tom with a much more focused mind this time than the last 2 occasions which he lost took control, won and earned his place in the final. A close fought contest again with a player Tom had met several times, although Tom missed out on gold on this occasion too he was very pleased with his days performance and said he had learnt some valuable lessons.
Dru to earned his place in the finals meeting his co England team mate, this was going to be a tough run out for Dru as he aggrevatted an old shoulder injury and pulled his groin in his earlier fights. Although Dru had performed great through out his earlier matches he found himself hindered by the injuries which took its toll on his performance. Nether the less, a silver for Dru was a good result of a good days fighting.
All in all, a good weekend for the boys, this is the first comp of the season, so gives them a good base for the Heart of England and the Nationals. WELL DONE BOYS!!!
Tom reached the semi's and his opponent was an old adversary but Tom with a much more focused mind this time than the last 2 occasions which he lost took control, won and earned his place in the final. A close fought contest again with a player Tom had met several times, although Tom missed out on gold on this occasion too he was very pleased with his days performance and said he had learnt some valuable lessons.
Dru to earned his place in the finals meeting his co England team mate, this was going to be a tough run out for Dru as he aggrevatted an old shoulder injury and pulled his groin in his earlier fights. Although Dru had performed great through out his earlier matches he found himself hindered by the injuries which took its toll on his performance. Nether the less, a silver for Dru was a good result of a good days fighting.
All in all, a good weekend for the boys, this is the first comp of the season, so gives them a good base for the Heart of England and the Nationals. WELL DONE BOYS!!!
Wednesday 27 August 2008
End Of An Era
Well that was it, Ford Judo Club closed its doors last night on the place it has called home for the last 40 years or so. It would have been nice to have seen out my 25th year of coaching there which would have been next year, but it wasn't to be. I have seen many come and go over the years and I suppose that is the circle of life, if they all stayed we would need Crystal Palace as our dojo.
We have been thrown a live line by Christine Evans at the Harlequins Gymnastics Club and I am looking forward now to getting the club set up there and recruiting new members, so if anyone knows of friends or relatives who would like to take up judo, now is a good time!!
See you all next week, Bryant Avenue, next to Tesco!!!
We have been thrown a live line by Christine Evans at the Harlequins Gymnastics Club and I am looking forward now to getting the club set up there and recruiting new members, so if anyone knows of friends or relatives who would like to take up judo, now is a good time!!
See you all next week, Bryant Avenue, next to Tesco!!!
Friday 22 August 2008
Class Days and Times
We have restructured the Classes so we can get more from our judo time. Please find below the new timetable. We will be trying to generate new members for our beginner classes so if anyone knows of relatives or school friends that would like to take up judo, now is a good time.
Mondays
6.30pm - 7.30pm Beginners 5-15 years of age (anyone doing judo less than 1 year)
7.30pm - 8.30pm Ladies + Elite Squad (Technical)/ Dan Grade Theory
8.30pm - 10.00pm Senior
Wednesdays
6.30pm - 8.00pm Intermediate + 1 year of judo experience
8.00pm - 9.30pm Advanced Judoka, Squad members and High Grade
Friday
6.30 - 7.30 Beginners 5-15 years and Intermediate
7.30 - 8.30 Advanced Judoka, Squad members and High Grade
8.30pm - 10.00pm Open Randori Senior and Advanced Youth
Here's to the future everyone. Hope to see you all at the New (Temporary)Club from 01.09.08
Bill...
Mondays
6.30pm - 7.30pm Beginners 5-15 years of age (anyone doing judo less than 1 year)
7.30pm - 8.30pm Ladies + Elite Squad (Technical)/ Dan Grade Theory
8.30pm - 10.00pm Senior
Wednesdays
6.30pm - 8.00pm Intermediate + 1 year of judo experience
8.00pm - 9.30pm Advanced Judoka, Squad members and High Grade
Friday
6.30 - 7.30 Beginners 5-15 years and Intermediate
7.30 - 8.30 Advanced Judoka, Squad members and High Grade
8.30pm - 10.00pm Open Randori Senior and Advanced Youth
Here's to the future everyone. Hope to see you all at the New (Temporary)Club from 01.09.08
Bill...
Thursday 21 August 2008
Club Profiles
Stuart Stvenson
Age 29
Grade 2nd Dan
Achieved 1st Dan 1997
Age started judo 7
qualified club coach 1999
Why Choose Judo?
Needed to take up a sport and wanted to do something a bit different from the football and stuff. Not very insperational but that is how it was. I didn't have a clue what judo was and sometimes I still think the same.
John Debono
Age 46
Grade 4th Dan
Achieved 1st Dan 1981
Age started judo 8, with John Hall 3rd Dan at Durning Hall, Forest Gate.
Qualified club coach in 1999
I started at Ford Judo Club in 1995 and been a club coach for 9 years and at the moment am working hard to becoming a Senior Examiner and getting my 5th Dan.
Frank Goulding
Age started judo 10
First grading 1965
Age started judo 10
Present grade 2nd Dan gained in 1982.
Introduced to judo by my father, Dennis who was also a coach. I attended many clubs including Upton Manor, Kensington Youth, The Highway and Stratford. I represented Newham and London. My coaches in the early days were Sid Gogbern and Terry Pumfrey then John Ryan, Colin Gilbert and Pat Walker.
Junior honours 14,16 and 18 British Team Champions and under 16 and 17 Individual Champion.
Craig Ringer
I have been a member of Ford Judo Club since 2000 and became a Table Official in 2001 as a Time Keeper. I got promoted to a Competition Recorder in 2003 and then a Senior Recorder in 2005 and am now able to run 2 Star Events.
I officiate all over the country in both National and International event including GB World Cup and the European Masters.
Debbie Ringer
I have been a member of Ford Judo Club since 2000
Gained my coaching cetificate in 2006
Obtained my 1st Dan in October 07'.
Become a member of the British Masters Squad in 2006 after winning a silver medal and then medalled again in 2007 to retain my place.
Age 29
Grade 2nd Dan
Achieved 1st Dan 1997
Age started judo 7
qualified club coach 1999
Why Choose Judo?
Needed to take up a sport and wanted to do something a bit different from the football and stuff. Not very insperational but that is how it was. I didn't have a clue what judo was and sometimes I still think the same.
John Debono
Age 46
Grade 4th Dan
Achieved 1st Dan 1981
Age started judo 8, with John Hall 3rd Dan at Durning Hall, Forest Gate.
Qualified club coach in 1999
I started at Ford Judo Club in 1995 and been a club coach for 9 years and at the moment am working hard to becoming a Senior Examiner and getting my 5th Dan.
Frank Goulding
Age started judo 10
First grading 1965
Age started judo 10
Present grade 2nd Dan gained in 1982.
Introduced to judo by my father, Dennis who was also a coach. I attended many clubs including Upton Manor, Kensington Youth, The Highway and Stratford. I represented Newham and London. My coaches in the early days were Sid Gogbern and Terry Pumfrey then John Ryan, Colin Gilbert and Pat Walker.
Junior honours 14,16 and 18 British Team Champions and under 16 and 17 Individual Champion.
Craig Ringer
I have been a member of Ford Judo Club since 2000 and became a Table Official in 2001 as a Time Keeper. I got promoted to a Competition Recorder in 2003 and then a Senior Recorder in 2005 and am now able to run 2 Star Events.
I officiate all over the country in both National and International event including GB World Cup and the European Masters.
Debbie Ringer
I have been a member of Ford Judo Club since 2000
Gained my coaching cetificate in 2006
Obtained my 1st Dan in October 07'.
Become a member of the British Masters Squad in 2006 after winning a silver medal and then medalled again in 2007 to retain my place.
Tuesday 22 July 2008
Fantastic News
Good news everyone, as of the 01/09/08 we will be relocating to the Harlequins Gymnastics Club at Bryant Avenue, Gallows Corner.. This is right next to Tesco.. We will be training 3 nights a week, Monday, Wednesday and Friday... The structure of the classes will be posted in a couple of weeks.. A new biginners will start and a second senior night too.. We will have the use of the sprung floor for our Elite and adult classes... Fantastic..
Please find link to map of Bryant Road, the gymnastics club is clearly marked with a sign outside..
http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=bryant+avenue+romford&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=10.729059,26.630859&ie=UTF8&ll=51.592109,0.217259&spn=0.001376,0.003251&t=h&z=18>
Please pass our site on to friends and family, let them see the latest news from the club...
Bill...
Please find link to map of Bryant Road, the gymnastics club is clearly marked with a sign outside..
http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=bryant+avenue+romford&sll=53.800651,-4.064941&sspn=10.729059,26.630859&ie=UTF8&ll=51.592109,0.217259&spn=0.001376,0.003251&t=h&z=18>
Please pass our site on to friends and family, let them see the latest news from the club...
Bill...
Sunday 20 July 2008
Medal Haul for Ford
While 2 were over sea's we had 4 players over the water... Matthew and Joe Kavanagh were fighting this weekend in the age banded USA Open, some Brits have gone, and failed!! But the two brothers were in with the medals with Joe winning a bronze medal and Matthew silver, Matthew on the end of some dubious refereeing in the final...
If that wasn't enough Matthew entered the under 20, winning his first fight against a 19 year old, not bad considering he is only 14 and a half. This all bodes well for their future in judo and Matt with his eye on selections for the World Youth Olympics in 2010.
While the boys were fighting over the Atlantic four Ford players were fighting over the Thames.
Neimah, Tia, Thomas and Kane were all taken part in Bushido's Class Masters Competition in Tonbridge in Kent..
Great performances from the youngsters see Tia and Kane both win gold while Tia's little brother obtained a silver and a good effort from Neimah got here the first bronze place... Nikki Jackson reported back saying the kids fought brilliant with Tia winning all her fights by ippon.. some great combinations from the youngsters and excellent transition work proved that all their hard work at the dojo is paying off...
Roles were reversed for the Kavanagh brothers as they entered their second comp while they were "Holidaying" in the States. Joseph stepped up a gear to win Silver while Matthew was close behind with a Bronze medal. A great haul for the brothers and will hopefully keep them on track to medal in the Heart of England and the National Championships in some weeks time...
Keep up the good work kids
If that wasn't enough Matthew entered the under 20, winning his first fight against a 19 year old, not bad considering he is only 14 and a half. This all bodes well for their future in judo and Matt with his eye on selections for the World Youth Olympics in 2010.
While the boys were fighting over the Atlantic four Ford players were fighting over the Thames.
Neimah, Tia, Thomas and Kane were all taken part in Bushido's Class Masters Competition in Tonbridge in Kent..
Great performances from the youngsters see Tia and Kane both win gold while Tia's little brother obtained a silver and a good effort from Neimah got here the first bronze place... Nikki Jackson reported back saying the kids fought brilliant with Tia winning all her fights by ippon.. some great combinations from the youngsters and excellent transition work proved that all their hard work at the dojo is paying off...
Roles were reversed for the Kavanagh brothers as they entered their second comp while they were "Holidaying" in the States. Joseph stepped up a gear to win Silver while Matthew was close behind with a Bronze medal. A great haul for the brothers and will hopefully keep them on track to medal in the Heart of England and the National Championships in some weeks time...
Keep up the good work kids
Saturday 19 July 2008
O What A Night
What a Great night, if you were there I hope you enjoyed yourself?, I know I did...
A Fantastic presentation, Bill receiving his 6th Dan from Dave Clark, representing the BJA. Bill was a star as always and did really well seeing the night out. Bill received a certificate and his 6th Dan in a great presentation case made by Nigel, Bills brother in law.
Chris Bowles gave a great speech and gave a little insight to their great rivalry as competitors in the early days, it was touch and go between them who would go to the 1980 Olympics and Chris just pipped Bill to go....
Chris made a presentation to Bill giving him his Olympic tie, a nice gesture and I think appreciated by Bill.
Ford judo club also made a presentation of a commemorative medal for his outstanding achievements in his judo career...
It was a sad night as this would be the last gathering in the club, it was rather fitting it went out on such a special occasion...
I will post the new location on the blog as soon as I know where we are relocating to...
I'm of to Bath Uni now for 2 weeks, wish me luck!!!
Bill...
A Fantastic presentation, Bill receiving his 6th Dan from Dave Clark, representing the BJA. Bill was a star as always and did really well seeing the night out. Bill received a certificate and his 6th Dan in a great presentation case made by Nigel, Bills brother in law.
Chris Bowles gave a great speech and gave a little insight to their great rivalry as competitors in the early days, it was touch and go between them who would go to the 1980 Olympics and Chris just pipped Bill to go....
Chris made a presentation to Bill giving him his Olympic tie, a nice gesture and I think appreciated by Bill.
Ford judo club also made a presentation of a commemorative medal for his outstanding achievements in his judo career...
It was a sad night as this would be the last gathering in the club, it was rather fitting it went out on such a special occasion...
I will post the new location on the blog as soon as I know where we are relocating to...
I'm of to Bath Uni now for 2 weeks, wish me luck!!!
Bill...
Monday 7 July 2008
The Essex Youth Games
While Chloe is fighting in major championships 10 of our younger players fought in the Essex Championships in Harlow, Ford Judo club collected 6 gold, 3 silver and one bronze medal which was a great haul from the endangered club.
A good performance by assured that all players took a medal home with them.
Gold medals went to Charlie Allen, Lizzy Allen, Charlie Jackson, James Cliff, Chelsy Cliff and Tom Thurston. While Silver medals went to James O'Shea, Lucy Allen and Kane Maloney and Kate Smith won her Bronze medals.
This was a good performance from the young players from Ford Judo Club, there ages ranging from 9 to 14 years old.
A good performance by assured that all players took a medal home with them.
Gold medals went to Charlie Allen, Lizzy Allen, Charlie Jackson, James Cliff, Chelsy Cliff and Tom Thurston. While Silver medals went to James O'Shea, Lucy Allen and Kane Maloney and Kate Smith won her Bronze medals.
This was a good performance from the young players from Ford Judo Club, there ages ranging from 9 to 14 years old.
Cadet European Championships, Sarajevo.
I have just returned from Sarajevo, Bosnia where Chloe Jackson competed in the -48kg weight category for Great Britain. Chloe won a 7th place beating FOUR of her 6 opponents in what was a very strong weight division. Chloe was part of a 16 strong GB team, Chloe along with another female squad member were the highest placed GB squad players.
Chloe experienced this event last year and after reviewing her performance decided that she should follow a Strength and Conditioning program for preparation for this years event.
Chloe worked with Carly Green one of the countries top female Strength & Conditioning coaches based at Next Generation, Gidea Park and the hard work paid off as without a doubt Chloe's performance was by far the best to come from the GB squad. This bodes well for Chloe's future prospects and brings nearer Chloe's dream of competing in the 2012 Olympic Games.
Chloe experienced this event last year and after reviewing her performance decided that she should follow a Strength and Conditioning program for preparation for this years event.
Chloe worked with Carly Green one of the countries top female Strength & Conditioning coaches based at Next Generation, Gidea Park and the hard work paid off as without a doubt Chloe's performance was by far the best to come from the GB squad. This bodes well for Chloe's future prospects and brings nearer Chloe's dream of competing in the 2012 Olympic Games.
Tuesday 1 July 2008
Big Bill Gets his 6th Dan....
The Kent International on Sunday see Bill Ward receive his 6th Dan, a fantastic achievement in recognition of Bill's exceptional competitive record. Bill had won many titles along with 3 British Open wins, this was when the British Open was one of the main events on the European Judo calendar.
A presentation night is being held at the Ford Judo Club on the 18.07.08 there will be a disco to, the night will mark the end of an era as we prepare to leave the grounds where the club has been established for 40 years or so.
Congratulations Bill....
A presentation night is being held at the Ford Judo Club on the 18.07.08 there will be a disco to, the night will mark the end of an era as we prepare to leave the grounds where the club has been established for 40 years or so.
Congratulations Bill....
Tuesday 24 June 2008
Kent International 22/06/08
Good performances from our clubs 3 players, Tom Williams and Jon Jackson entered in the youth section while Frankie Goulding fighting in the senior section.
All 3 were looking good and they were coping under pressure from their opponents..
Jon had some good strong fights in the early rounds winning his way to the semi finals. Jon has been working hard on his ashi waza's and he really put it to good use. Also his transition work was sharp scoring a wazari knockdown and quickly controlling his opponent and held him for a further 20 seconds to win his fight. After strong performances won his place in the final only to loose out in golden score to the young Dutch player but really made a great account of himself.
Tom also looked sharp winning his first fight in about 20 seconds, a very strong and fast Ouchi Gari for ippon. Winning his way to the semi's Tom had an old rival, they are both evenly match and previous bouts have always been entertaining and eventful and this was no different.
In my opinion and several others Tom was denied a score as the corner judges deemed the throw outside the area but as our video footage confirmed it started well within the area.
This Knocked Tom down to fight for Bronze, this was against a very strong Dutch boy.
Tom had previously been beaten for ten by this lad in Sweden so we knew it would be hard.
Again it was very evenly matched and each lad gave all, full time was up and golden score went the distance to.. Tom got the decision 2 to 1 for bronze..
Frankie was looking in good form to, he was fighting in the senior event. A couple of good ippons took Frankie to the Semi finals at this point as far as I was concerned to get 3 of our players all through to the semi finals is a good achievement and showed me they are developing well.
Confusion struck as a small score was given against Frankie but penalties were given against both players, Frankie was leading but unfortunately got caught with just a couple of seconds left on the clock. This should give Frankie a massive boost as his opponent is number one in the country in under 20's.
Frankie gained a 5th place and was very unlucky not to medal but lessons were learned by all..
Well done everyone, a good day!!
Bill...
All 3 were looking good and they were coping under pressure from their opponents..
Jon had some good strong fights in the early rounds winning his way to the semi finals. Jon has been working hard on his ashi waza's and he really put it to good use. Also his transition work was sharp scoring a wazari knockdown and quickly controlling his opponent and held him for a further 20 seconds to win his fight. After strong performances won his place in the final only to loose out in golden score to the young Dutch player but really made a great account of himself.
Tom also looked sharp winning his first fight in about 20 seconds, a very strong and fast Ouchi Gari for ippon. Winning his way to the semi's Tom had an old rival, they are both evenly match and previous bouts have always been entertaining and eventful and this was no different.
In my opinion and several others Tom was denied a score as the corner judges deemed the throw outside the area but as our video footage confirmed it started well within the area.
This Knocked Tom down to fight for Bronze, this was against a very strong Dutch boy.
Tom had previously been beaten for ten by this lad in Sweden so we knew it would be hard.
Again it was very evenly matched and each lad gave all, full time was up and golden score went the distance to.. Tom got the decision 2 to 1 for bronze..
Frankie was looking in good form to, he was fighting in the senior event. A couple of good ippons took Frankie to the Semi finals at this point as far as I was concerned to get 3 of our players all through to the semi finals is a good achievement and showed me they are developing well.
Confusion struck as a small score was given against Frankie but penalties were given against both players, Frankie was leading but unfortunately got caught with just a couple of seconds left on the clock. This should give Frankie a massive boost as his opponent is number one in the country in under 20's.
Frankie gained a 5th place and was very unlucky not to medal but lessons were learned by all..
Well done everyone, a good day!!
Bill...
Friday 13 June 2008
Ford Judo Club
Hi all, Bill here from Ford Judo Club. just to keep you up to date with what is going on with the club in respect of its impending closure.. The club will be shutting its doors on the 31/08/08.. A sad day but hopefully we will have something in place by then, if only temporary for the time being. It is a shame as I would have liked to have seen my Silver Anniversary there as a coach next year... Will just have to do elsewhere.
I have attached a write up that came out in our Local Paper today, just an insight on what is happening.
Ford Judo Club has been in existence for over forty years and has produced some great judo players. I trained there from about the age of 8 till 12 years of age. I never dreamed I would end up being the coach there one day. I am a 5th Dan and current Nation Masters Champion, I won a bronze medal recently in the Commonwealth Championships in Mauritius and also the reigning British Open Masters Champion and the Senior Club Coach at the club.
I have been coaching at Ford for 24 years now and the club has grown beyond recognition of those early years. One of my early students Stuart Stevenson started at the age of 8 and is now one of my coaches, 29 years old. Some parents started because either their children did it and wanted to understand it more or they to did it as children and wanted to get back in to the sport.
Some have gained their black belts and become assistant coaches too.
It is a shame that a long stand club such as Ford is being shut down with non or little support from anyone. The communication between the Ford Management and ourselves has been appalling, we have been kept in the dark and my many emails have either been ignored or given back poor replies that have not answered my questions, very frustrating.
Ford had offered to relocate us at Basildon or allow us to use a squash court at their Newbury Park site, both are not practical for the club and was very disappointed with their solution. The club has several one parent families as members and travelling to far a field would not be possible for them so we are looking for premises roughly in the same geographical area, 1 or 2 miles radius from where we are if possible?
I have been trying to get contact numbers for West Ham to see whether they may be doing something within the community but apparently not as Ford would not pass any details on, saying West Ham wanted sole use only. I know judo is a minority sport but it seems football presides over all sport.
We take kids off the street and give them a sport that develops their fitness, mental health and respect for their opponent, it is a confidence builder to, many children start judo because they are being bullied, it is rewarding to see the changes in the kids as they get older and become more self confident. people of all ages, shapes and sizes can participate in judo and from all walks of life. It is a sport where you never stop learning and developing.
The club had just received a grant from the Veolia Trust and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Gary Baker of the Trust who has been working closely with the club to try and find new premises, he seems to be the only genuine person trying to help the club.
The grant was to refurbish an old pavilion just outside the main hall we use. This would have given us additional training facilities for our elite players with a permanently laid mat area with sprung flooring essential for the standard the players are competing also a Strength and Conditioning area, vital at this stage of their development.
Of course the money was withdrawn when the news broke of the impending sale of the site to West Ham which we totally understood.
The club has 8 players on the World Class Start Program, 3 on the World Class Talent Program, all fighting for Great Britain, and 2 on the under 20 Great Britain squad, this is a fantastic achievement and puts us amongst the top clubs in the country. We have 5 veterans on the Great Britain Masters squad, 3 of us represented England recently in Mauritius where the Commonwealth Judo Championships were held, we returned with 1 gold medal, 1 silver and a bronze medal, a great haul for the club.
Several of our young players are on a Strength & Conditioning program working closely with Carly Green, the S & C coach at Next Generation Gidea Park, this is an essential part of their development as we are now focussing on the 2010 World Youth Olympics, this is a new event and several of our players will be eligible to trial for this, many coming from Havering.
A young Havering girl by the name of Chloe Jackson is doing particularly well, and is representing Great Britain in the Cadet European Championships in July, this is being held in Bosnia this year.
Brothers Matt and Joseph Kavanagh, both Havering lads are competing in the US Open this year, they both won silver medals when they entered 2 years ago, a great achievement.
We are looking for full time premises where the mats can be left down and not taken up each night this is time wasted where we could be teaching. We need full training facilities, Any one out there that knows of maybe an old warehouse or disused church hall, I know they are few and far between.
Also, anyone interested in sponsoring a successful club, we are self funded, we travel up and down the country and at least once a month fight abroad in either France, Belgium, Germany or Holland.. We have fought in Canada, Japan, USA and Mauritius, yep, we get about!
Judo is an Olympic sport and representing Great Britain in the -100kg weight category this year is Peter Cousins from JSC judo club in Averly. Peter and his twin brother Thomas were regular visitors to the club from the age of 11 and Peter who recently won a silver medal in the World Championships in Rio De Janeiro is hitting peak form so we would like to take this opportunity to wish him good luck for the 2008 Olympics.
Although we are a competitive club we have many recreational players that do not enter competitions and do judo for the enjoyment and the fitness aspect, we also have a ladies only class. Anyone interested in finding out more details can find our website http://www.fordjudoclub.co.uk/
If there is anyone out there that can help our cause please do not hesitate to contact us.
I have attached a write up that came out in our Local Paper today, just an insight on what is happening.
Ford Judo Club has been in existence for over forty years and has produced some great judo players. I trained there from about the age of 8 till 12 years of age. I never dreamed I would end up being the coach there one day. I am a 5th Dan and current Nation Masters Champion, I won a bronze medal recently in the Commonwealth Championships in Mauritius and also the reigning British Open Masters Champion and the Senior Club Coach at the club.
I have been coaching at Ford for 24 years now and the club has grown beyond recognition of those early years. One of my early students Stuart Stevenson started at the age of 8 and is now one of my coaches, 29 years old. Some parents started because either their children did it and wanted to understand it more or they to did it as children and wanted to get back in to the sport.
Some have gained their black belts and become assistant coaches too.
It is a shame that a long stand club such as Ford is being shut down with non or little support from anyone. The communication between the Ford Management and ourselves has been appalling, we have been kept in the dark and my many emails have either been ignored or given back poor replies that have not answered my questions, very frustrating.
Ford had offered to relocate us at Basildon or allow us to use a squash court at their Newbury Park site, both are not practical for the club and was very disappointed with their solution. The club has several one parent families as members and travelling to far a field would not be possible for them so we are looking for premises roughly in the same geographical area, 1 or 2 miles radius from where we are if possible?
I have been trying to get contact numbers for West Ham to see whether they may be doing something within the community but apparently not as Ford would not pass any details on, saying West Ham wanted sole use only. I know judo is a minority sport but it seems football presides over all sport.
We take kids off the street and give them a sport that develops their fitness, mental health and respect for their opponent, it is a confidence builder to, many children start judo because they are being bullied, it is rewarding to see the changes in the kids as they get older and become more self confident. people of all ages, shapes and sizes can participate in judo and from all walks of life. It is a sport where you never stop learning and developing.
The club had just received a grant from the Veolia Trust and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Gary Baker of the Trust who has been working closely with the club to try and find new premises, he seems to be the only genuine person trying to help the club.
The grant was to refurbish an old pavilion just outside the main hall we use. This would have given us additional training facilities for our elite players with a permanently laid mat area with sprung flooring essential for the standard the players are competing also a Strength and Conditioning area, vital at this stage of their development.
Of course the money was withdrawn when the news broke of the impending sale of the site to West Ham which we totally understood.
The club has 8 players on the World Class Start Program, 3 on the World Class Talent Program, all fighting for Great Britain, and 2 on the under 20 Great Britain squad, this is a fantastic achievement and puts us amongst the top clubs in the country. We have 5 veterans on the Great Britain Masters squad, 3 of us represented England recently in Mauritius where the Commonwealth Judo Championships were held, we returned with 1 gold medal, 1 silver and a bronze medal, a great haul for the club.
Several of our young players are on a Strength & Conditioning program working closely with Carly Green, the S & C coach at Next Generation Gidea Park, this is an essential part of their development as we are now focussing on the 2010 World Youth Olympics, this is a new event and several of our players will be eligible to trial for this, many coming from Havering.
A young Havering girl by the name of Chloe Jackson is doing particularly well, and is representing Great Britain in the Cadet European Championships in July, this is being held in Bosnia this year.
Brothers Matt and Joseph Kavanagh, both Havering lads are competing in the US Open this year, they both won silver medals when they entered 2 years ago, a great achievement.
We are looking for full time premises where the mats can be left down and not taken up each night this is time wasted where we could be teaching. We need full training facilities, Any one out there that knows of maybe an old warehouse or disused church hall, I know they are few and far between.
Also, anyone interested in sponsoring a successful club, we are self funded, we travel up and down the country and at least once a month fight abroad in either France, Belgium, Germany or Holland.. We have fought in Canada, Japan, USA and Mauritius, yep, we get about!
Judo is an Olympic sport and representing Great Britain in the -100kg weight category this year is Peter Cousins from JSC judo club in Averly. Peter and his twin brother Thomas were regular visitors to the club from the age of 11 and Peter who recently won a silver medal in the World Championships in Rio De Janeiro is hitting peak form so we would like to take this opportunity to wish him good luck for the 2008 Olympics.
Although we are a competitive club we have many recreational players that do not enter competitions and do judo for the enjoyment and the fitness aspect, we also have a ladies only class. Anyone interested in finding out more details can find our website http://www.fordjudoclub.co.uk/
If there is anyone out there that can help our cause please do not hesitate to contact us.
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