Yokoso (Welcome!)

In 1979, at the age of 19, John Bath started a fledgling judo club at the youth centre in Patchway. Today, the club (and John!) are still going strong, helping young people to learn judo, building self confidence, self esteem & improving co-ordination. John was asked to take over a club in the south of the city in 2001, together the two clubs form New Star Bristol.

The club also provides the opportunity for young people to make new friends and keep active in a fun and safe environment. And best of all, family & friends of judo players are welcome to take part in all of the club activities & events.

New Star Bristol is committed to helping children reach their full potential, whether they are competitive or recreational players; and ultimately, to become happy confident young people!

Professor Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo said, "Judo is a teaching for life itself and with it we learn to overcome the pitfalls and obstacles of everyday living" and his words still ring true. A man of great vision, Kano summed up Judo by saying "it is the way to most efficiently use one's mental and physical strength. By training, one should discipline and cultivate the body and spirit through the practice of techniques of offence and defence, thereby to master the essence of Judo. And, by these means, it is the ultimate goal of Judo to build oneself up to perfection and thereby benefit the world."

Club News

Saturday 27th June - Kieran is our Star!

After a very long journey, Friday for some, Saturday for others, a team of 11 New Star players arrived at Crystal Palace - the hottest place in the country!

A very long day, one of the hardest competitions in the Country.

Kieran was our only medallist, winning a very deserved bronze. Losing only to the Gold to the gold medallist, an England cadet! There were lots of cadets in all the weight groups. Reece & Sam both lost in the fights for bronze medals. Well done to Rachel, Adriana, Mollie, Tom L., Tom J., Myles, Dominic & David.

Natasha was refereeing again, did so well has been talent spotted.

Friday 26th June - Alison passes UKCC level 2

Just in time for Kent, Alison heard she had successfully completed the UK Coaching Certifcate level 2 - the new coaching pass came in Friday's post. Alison was one of 11 Western Area coaches (the only female!) to complete the first UKCC held in Western Area in Devon.

Saturday 20th June - Vrum is Thelma!

Lucy "Vrum" England was Thelma on the school float in the Pilining Carnival, they won best children's float! Well done Vrum, you looked fantastic!

Tuesday 9th June - Star Volunteer - from UK school Games to FA National Young Leaders Camp!

It was a double good day for our Star Time Keeper Dan P. His cage was removed from his leg and he heard the news that he had been selected as the South West  representative at the National Football Association Young leaders camp in July.

Dan passed his exam to be a Timekeeper last July and then went on to be a judo official at the UK school games last August. Since then he has gone to volunteer at judo events and other sports events. It is because of Dan's commitment to volunteering that he has been selected - Dan we are all really proud of you!

Sunday 7th June - Bedminster judokwai Open - 13 entries 14 medals!

Day two at Ashton Park Sport Centre for many! A tougher competition today for everyone.

Our only Gold medallist was Dominic winning the very last fight of the day! It was his second medal as he had already won the bronze in a higher weight group!

Ben G. also won two silver medals, one in the U12 & the other in U16, bringing his medal total to 4 in one weekend! Tom was our other silver medallist, in a hard final. For the rest of our players, amongst the injuries secured 9 other bronze medals between them, well done to Amy, Rachael, Mollie, Cameron, Myles & Alan in U12 and Reece, Kieran & David in U16's. Tom L withdrew with an injury, we wish him well.

Total 25 medals over the weekend - pretty good result from the New Star Squad.

New Star officials were active again; Table officials Rebecca, Lisa, Dan, Mollie & Reece and Referees Natasha & Alison.

Chris made recovery after yesterdays injury to return today as one of the New Star Photographers!

Once again a HUGE THANK YOU to the Photography team, who worked tirelesly over the weekend. Photographers Giles, Steve & Chris and sales Richard, Emma, Phil & Simon - over the weekend we took £250 in photo sales.

Thank you to Paul and Bedminster Judokawai for their support with the Photographs.

If you would like to purchase any photos please click on photosales on the left hand toolbar.

Saturday 6th June - Bedminster judokwai Mini mon - 12 medals for 10 Stars! Plus two new refs!

A nice local competition, so not too early a start!

The day was off to a great start with Josie, Rachael & Cameron up first all winning their first fights and going on to all be unbeaten - 3 golds in the bag from the stars! Next up was Amy, despite losing her first fight, went on to win the rest, going on to take the silver.

Next up were Ben G & Dan. Ben was in two groups, which got confusing. Winning 5 fights altogether, just losing won, he took the Gold in one group and the silver in the other. It was Dan's first competition, he did very well taking the bronze in te group where Ben had the Gold!

We then had Mollie, with Rachael in her second group of the day. Mols took silver and Rachael did very well to take the silver.

After a long wait, Tom J., Myles & Tom L. got to fight! Tom J seem to have a pattern of winning his in 15 seconds, winning the Gold. Myles was pretty speedy in winning his fights too, there was another Gold! Tom L. had a silver sandwich, losing his first and last fights, but winning the middle one, securing the silver medal! Total of 6 Golds, 4 silvers and 2 bronzes! Chris Field was injured but was still awarded a bronze medal - we wish him a speedy recovery!

Whilst this was all taking place, Myles & Reece were taking the practical part of their referee exams! Both did very well, impproving through out the day, passing to make 6 New Star Junior refs in 3 families!

Natasha and Alison were also refereeing, Lisa and Mollie were table officials.

Huge THANK YOU to the PHOTOGRAPHY TEAM, who sold over 20 photos - we have now hit our first £1,000 on fund raising for the NEW DOJO!

*******Change of training times from June************

As from 2nd June training at Patchway on a Tuesday evening moves to 6pm-7pm, this is because the Youth club will now be used from 7.30pm.

Setting up will be from 5.45pm and we need to be cleared up and out of the building by .15pm - this change is until further notice.

As from June Judo will be at Seamills on Mondays and Wednesdays with no more training at Ashton after 28th May.

Sunday 24th May - Competition Officials refresher training, Ashton - New Junior refs for New Star!

On Sunday Mike held a training to bring everyone upto date with the new competition rules.

During the day Reece and Myles took their level 1 referee exams, passing with 100% & 95%! Well done boys; that brings the total of junior referees to 6!

Sunday 17th May - Western Area Closed - New Star Boasts 6 Area Champions!

An early morning for some, and a nice night away for others! A team of 14 New Star players joined 4 other clubs from Bristol County to make up a team of 24.

The day started slowly but thankfully picked up!

All players fought very well and many won fights despite not winning medals.

Congratulations to all our medallists. Our new Area Champions are Rachael, Mollie, Ben G, Dominic, Sam & David, our bronze medallists are Amy, Adriana, Tom & Myles.

Well done to Connor, Cameron, Reece & Kieran who were all unlucky not to be in the medals.

In total Bristol County had a total of 12 Golds and 6 bronzes, coming 3rd in the Area, Devon coming 1st.

New Star Officials were Lisa, Natasha & Alison. From Bristol County, Mike G. Mark M & Derek.

Friday 8th - Sunday 10th May - 10th Anniversary Western Area judo camp - Brean

Twenty families from New Star travelled south to Brean to attend the 10th Anniversary. Sadly Luke couldn't be with us, for th first time since 1999, leaving John and two others who had been to all the camps!

Gerogina Singleton, European & Commonwealth Gold medallist 2002, was our Coach for the weekend - see Brean 2009 page for photos and more details

Sunday 26th April - Kidderminster Green belt and below & Kyu grade

Hot off the press the story so far (11.30am!) Amy has won gold in the Under 44kg girls and is going to fight in the U48 kgs! Well done Amy!

Click here for full report

Saturday April 25th New Star parents & Coaches "Doing Time"

11 parents and Luke, went to the Stoke Lane evening with the band "Doing Time". The football club were raising money for the ladies and mens teams to go on tour. They gave the judo club tickets to sell and they allowed us to put the profit for each ticket in to the Dojo fund. The Football club made us vey welcome and we all had a very good time. The first of many joint functions as we continue on our Quest to build our new home!

Sunday 19th April - Patchway Inter club - Great turn out from New Star players, officials & volunteers!

Thirteen under 8's took part in the morning training session, all trying their very best through out the morning. Well done to Rhys, Liam, Oscar, Laurence, Ryleigh, Ben D., Nathan W., Tommy, Finley, Mumbles, Vrum & Kelly.

Nineteen red and yellow belts took part in the afternoon winning a total of 20 medals between them!

8 Golds for Danielle, Chloe G., Josie, Adriana, Dominic S-C, Cameron Chris & Ben G.         7 Silvers for Lucy, Amy, Chloe S., Connor W., Aidan W., Tom L., & Adam D. 4 bronzes for Amy (yes the same Amy, who "fought up" in a heavier group, to give the less experience  fighters an extra fight! Well done!) Stephanie, Rachel B. & Oliver T.

Competitions can't happen with out the officials and volunteers; thanks go to Mike from Yate, Derek from Long Ashton & Paul from Bedminster, and our own officials and referees; Rebecca, Dan, Lisa, Judy, Natasha, Dominic, Alison & Mollie.

HUGE THANK YOU TO ALL THE PARENTS AND SIBLINGS who helped make the day such a success. From baking to raffle prizes, from putting out the mats to selling food, toys, raffle tickets & photos! Several families helped even though their children weren't competiting! Others were there after or before their children fought, it was lovely to see the community support that there is at the club.

We can't forget the Photography team! Well done to Giles and Patrick for fantastic photos! To Robert & Tom for the sales! If you didn't get a chance to buy photos, all is not lost. Photos are available to view here

April Important!! - Action photos at Patchway Inter club Sunday 19th

Photos will be taking by our talented "in house" photography team, Giles & Patrick, and will be available for sale during the day. All profits made will go towards the building of the New Dojo. To check out their work click on the links to photos in the items below or the Brean pages.

11th April - Easter Egg Hunt

Over 50 children, players, siblings and cousins, took part in the great new star Easter Egg hunt at Patchway. Thank you to Julie M and Lisa for organising it all.

Another thank you to Julie for this weeks Easter cakes!

April - Important changes to Western Area Judo camp!

Due to coaching commitments with the National Squad, Kate Howey will unfortunately not be at Brean for the 10th Anniversary. Kate has however found us an excellent replacement - Georgina Singleton, Commonwealth and European Champion.

We look forward to welcoming Georgina to Brean.

April - Important changes to selections for British Championships

The BJA has reverted to the old scheme of area selections for entries into the British Championships.

Selections will take place 12th September at a competition to be held at City Academy, Bristol. The top four for each weight & age band will be entered into the British Championships. Further details here.

4th April - Kidderminster Green belt and below - New Star Boys in Bronze hat trick!

Cameron, Myles, Dominc and Reece all went to Kidderminster for a lunch time weigh in, accopmanied by an injured Kieran and his pink cast! Caneron was first up, unfortunately was knocked out before the medals. Myles & Dominc were in the same weight group and both came away with bronze. Reece had a little wait and was a yuko up in the fight for the final and lost by a wazari in the last 10 seconds; he completed the hat trick of bronzes! Well done all of you.

15th March - Tora Judo Kai Open - Birthday Bronze for Luke!

With a squad of 21, New Star players went to Ashton Park school to take part in the Tora Judo Kai open.

It was a tough competition, all our players held their own, with large groups we managed a total of 17 medals!

One gold in particular was very special, Alan England won  his first over 8 Gold medal! Alan was the over 8 from the club to  win a gold! Further Golds went to Tommy and Mumbles. Silvers won by Vrum, Ben D, Dominic, Cameron N & Mollie, which leaves 9 Bronzes won by Liam, Rachel, Adriana, Myles, Tom J, Reece P, Kieran, Ben G and our birthday boy Luke!

The rest of the squad Amy, David, Tom L & Chris fought well, (Amy even beat the bronze medallist in her group). For several of the players this competition means they will now be presented with their New Star Bristol Squad polo shirts.

Well done to everyone.

March - DING DONG...............

....Avon calling! For those of you who have read the newsletter you will know that Emma has become an Avon lady to raise funds for the new Dojo/clubhouse. Emma now has the books and order forms, so the more you treat yourself - or persuade your family too, the more is raised! If you would like a book and an orde form or 6, then see Emma at the club sessions or email her at Emma.71@blueyonder.co.uk - all payments should be in cash or cheques payable to "New Star Patchway". MARCH ORDERS TO EMMA BY 28.03

12th March - Joint Sports Association

At a meeting between New Star Judo and Stoke Lane Football club, it was agreed we needed a name for a joint sports association to be the umbrella group for the new clubhouse/dojo. Both clubs are celebrating their 30th or Pearl anniversaries this year. If anyone has any ideas for names, fundraising or contacts then please contact the Chair of the fundraising, Robert Chandler.

To start off the fund, the football club have given us tickets for a band "Doing Time" & Disco at Patchway Labour club on Saturday 25th April. If you would like a ticket please see Alison, raise money by having fun!

Saturday 7th March - Wedding bells, with action photos!

Congratulations to Jules and Steve who got married on Saturday.

Our own rovering photographer and webmaster was there to take the photos; not as many action shots as usual for Giles! Best wishes to the happy couple from everyone!

Sunday 1st March - New Star Golden Girls secure the team trophy!

A team of 15 players went to the Pyramid club in Filton to take part in their Under 10 & Under 16 low grade competition. Having won the team trophy last year, hopes were up for winning it for a second year!

Off to a flying start was "Vrum" who was the first player of the day to win Gold! It was a a bit strange for our players who as some of the rules were a bit different; main one begining taking the grips before the referee called Hajime! It was a very successful day, all the girls won Gold medals, Lucy E, Rachel, Amy, Adriana, Lucy M (after a very long weight! - it was worth it!) and Mollie. Finley, Mumbles, Dominic S & Ben D, won silver, Elliot won a bronze the rest of the boys winning Golds Ben G, Myles, Cameron N & Chris F. Excellent first competition for Chris, winning his ifrst fight with a 5 second Ippon. With 10 Golds, 4 silvers and a bronze the team trophy, for the second year, went to New Star - well done all of you, you made your coaches and parents proud! Thanks to all the supporters!

Saturday 28th February 2009 - Ashton Under 8 trg &  - medals presented by Natasha - see her news below

All the under 8 players trained hard and competed very well in their training fights.

Well done to everyone who took part.

In the Inter club the entry numbers were low, there were 8 entries from New Star. Everyone had at least 2 fights, all fought well, we saw some lovely Ippons from our young players. Golds going to Chloe, Adriana, Tom L, & Ben G. Silver to Josie, who was in the same group as Chloe. Bronzes to Amy, Cameron N and Stephanie.

To add to the ever growing number of officials we have at the club, Sam passed his level 1 referee exam, brining the total number of Senioir & Junior officials to a dozen!

John annouced that Natasha has been called to trials for the Under 20 squad for the Europeans! Well done Natasha, we are all have our fingers crossed for you!

Thank you to everyone who organised the competition and who helped on the day.

Thank you to all the officials from, New Star, Bedminster judokwai, Yate Star, Bristol Judo Hartcliffe and Long Ashton judo club.

Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd February 2009 - North West Age band

On Saturday Sam was the only star player at the competition. It was a 9.30am weigh in, 1st time in 3 years Sam went up a weight group, to Under 50's. There were 14 in his weight category, he was due to fight at 12.30pm. He made friends with Gareth from North Wales, who was there next to the mat supporting Sam until he was called to fight in u66's himself.

Sam's first fight went to Hantei, his first ever, he won with a unanimous decision, proving all Sam's fitness training had paid off! Next fight was a bit quicker, drop Seoi nage win in 20 seconds; well he'd already had a 6 minute fight! Third fight went to golden score, Sam swept his opponent and went straight in for the hold down. Fourth fight, Semi final, it was all even, then Sam's opponent came in for drop seoi, Sam blocked it - video evidence, but then rolled, the other player was awarded Ippon. Sam then had to fight for bronze. Sam through his opponent with a drop seoi for a wazari, then finshed in style with a Te Guruma! Sam won bronze, not bad for his first U50 competition.

The Maslen's and the Curtis's travelled to St Helens on Saturday ready for the competition the next day. At 8:30 Jay Curtis, from Yate Star who trains at New Star on Thursdays and Natasha Maslen weighed in. Jay ended up fighting U55s and Natasha U63s, both in C band. At 11:00 they were both called to the mats.

Natasha had 13 in her weight group, which is a lot for girls. She fought her first fight and won by ippon, in under ten seconds. Her second fight was unfortunate by losing to a competitor from the England Talent Squad. But came firing back by winning her next two fights, again both in under 20 seconds with ippon. Lastly, she fought and won the fight for the bronze against another girl from the Talent Squad.

Jay had 20 in his group. Unfortunately he lost his first fight but made a remarkable come back by winning his second fight against a boy from the England Squad, by a hold down. After a long hour and a half wait he had his third fight. Due to controversial refereeing he lost by a yuko.

They both fought really well and did their clubs and the area proud.

Sunday 1st February 2009 - Midland Area U 20 age band C & D

Due to illness and injury Natasha was the only player representing the club in the C & D band comeptition.

Natasha's weight group, under 63s, was called to the mats at 10:30 . About 10:45 she was up for her first fight, which she won by an Ippon throw. In her second fight she was up against the girl who won silver at the British Championships. After about a minute and a half Natasha won by a strangle. Her third fight was the final against the girl who won the British Championships. Nervously, through the fight, we watched as it continued. Finally, Natasha threw her opponent for Ippon. After all her hard work Natasha won gold. This was extra incredible as the two girls she beat were not only number 1 and 2 ranked in their weight group they are also members of the England Talented Squad. To add on to her success she earned10 points towards her Dan grade by winning her second fight against a Dan grade. Natasha is grateful to her mum for coaching and supporting her. Rebecca went along to support her big sister having pulled out the competition due to illness and injury.

Saturday 31st January 2009 - Midland Area U 20 age band A & B

A squad of 7, Sam, Kieran, Reece, Dominic, Myles, Mollie & Tom J, travelled up the M5 to waht we knew would be a long day for supporters and players as the B band players weighed in at 8.45am and the A band at 11am!

The day didn't start well when after no more than 10 seconds in to his first fight Sam injured his foot! He tried to carry on, but in the end the pain got the better of him, he spent the next 2 hours in Walsall A & E. Reece was in the same weight group as Sam, fought well but was unable to get a win. Dominc was on next in a large strong group, he managed two good wins. Kieran was up next in U55! Again he fought well, close second fight but a win was not to be, What seemed like forever Mollie fought, we knew her first fight was going to be a hard one, 12th mon, she did well, not even giving up when she was being held down! Her second fight she was a yuko up; school boy error when she got up from a hold down, when she "miss heard" the ref! Myles and Tom again had a huge group, with some very expereinced players. Myles again fought well, but no win. Tom managed a win, which meant things got harder!

In spite of not having any medals, the players did work hard. It was always going to be a hard one! Well done to Scott, yate Star who won 3 fights in B Band U50's.

Sam would like to thank his Physio, Steve Griffin, who was up at mountain in Wales at the time, but with a photo of Sam's injured foot, he sent instructions to Alison to minimise and the damage to his foot and help the healing!

Sunday 25th January 2009 - Bristol Classic

A squad of 14 went to the competition, Amy, Adriana, Rachel, Tom J, Myles, Dominc, Tom L, Reece, Ben, Sam, Kieran, David, Rebecca & Lucy.

Tough competition, as always.

Silver medals won by Reece and Ben

Bronze medals won by Rachel, Sam, David, Rebecca& Kieran

Well done to all the players and thank you to the clubs officials, Alison, Lisa, Dan, Rebecca and Mollie.

Match report to follow.

Saturday 24th January 2009 - From 6 to 7

Well done to Finley & Mumbles who successfully passed their Kano 7 award. They will now have white belts with one blue tag. The boys very confidentally demonstrated to the whole group; they are excellent role models to the lower grades.

Sunday 18th January - 1st Kyu & Dan grading

Rebecca and Natasha went for their first Kyu and Dan grading. They had three fights each, one of them being against each other. Natasha got 30 points and Rebecca got 20 points towards their Dan grade.

Thursday 8th January - From 18th to 1st - First success of 2009!

Congratulations to Rebecca & Natasha Maslen, who successful passed their 1st Kyu grading; converting from Junor to Senior grades. We wish them Good Luck for next week end at the grading.

Happy New Year!

Hope you've all had a nice break and are raring to go. Judo starts at Ashton on Thursday 8th and at Patchway on Saturday 10th.

Membership renewals are due by 31st January and new mat fees take effect from 1st February 2009 - see below.

There are a few competitions coming up, so don't forget to let Lisa know ASAP if you child wishes to enter.

2009 Brean booking forms are available to download if you click on Brean 2009 link on the side bar.

End of another successful year for New Star Bristol!

With the judo sessions over for the year we can look back and say 2008 was certainly a good year for New Star, can we better that in 2009?

With the competitive squad growing, there is room for more champions. There is lots of theory for both the competitive and non competitive players to learn. As for our officials, we have Senior & Junior referees as well as Senior and junior table officials, we are going from strength to strength. One thing is for sure the ethos of us being a “family” club will continue. We already have mums, dads and siblings who get involved, so if you'd like to get involved then don't be shy. "MANY HANDS MAKE LIGHT WORK!"

Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy, successful 2009!

2009 Membership   fees are due by 31st January- there is no rise for annual membership, but there is an increase in mat fees; first for 3 years.

Patchway £2.20 per child for members, £3 for non members,

Ashton will be £2.50 per child for members, £3.50 for non members. Adults £3 and £4 respectively.

These prices will take effect 1st February. Which ever club you are a member of, you pay members fees at the other.

Saturday 20th December - Patchway Christmas Party

Great turn out again this year. With over 50 players and siblings. Giles was able to take a new group photo. We were lucky enoughto have a special visit from Father Christmas again this year!

As three of the awards winners were unable to attend the Presentation night at Ashton last week, the Patchway awards were given out again, as well as squad t-shirts to Rachel Bennet, & Robert Sheppard.

Dan Peacock was given a special Table offical t-shirt to mark his committment to the club, and make him part of the competition squad.

Sunday 14th December - Long Ashton Under 8 & Nov- 4th mon Under 12's

It was another early start for the New Star players, most of who were at the Awards presentation the night before.

The Under 8's were up first and had an enjoyable training session on the mats. With only three girls in this group, Vrum England had to be put up several weight categories. She won one of her two fights and came second in the group. Stephanie Button did very well, finishing third.

Not to be outdone, the boys also had a successful competition. Finley Norton won all three of his fights and came first in his group. “Mumbles” Guest won two of his three fights and finished joint first in his group. Tommy Dougall won both his fights and came first in his group. Ben Davison won one of his two fights and came second in his group. Oliver James drew one of his two fights and finished joint-second in his group. Liam Conway and Ryleigh Jefferies did well and finished third in their groups and Oscar Norton did well in his first competition, coming third in his group.

The Over 8s were on next; Lucy McGuiness did well in her first competition, winning one of her three fights and gaining a bronze medal. Cameron Nelson showed why he was awarded the “Spirit of Judo” the previous evening by winning all three of his fights and gaining a gold medal. Harrison Mizen won one of his two fights and gained a silver medal. Amy Oram should now be called either “For Goodness Sake, Hold Them Down!” or “The Koka Kid” because in one of her fights she performed five Kokas, two Yukos and a Waza-ari. She lost her other fight but gained a silver medal.

New Star was again well-represented on the official side with Dominic Nelson and Natasha Maslen refereeing, Lisa Oram as table-official and both Rebecca and Natasha Maslen helping with the Under 8s training and supervising the Over 8s.

Saturday 13th December - NEW STAR ANNUAL AWARDS EVENING

Well done to all New Star players for their performances over the past year. The awards were presented at the Ashton club on Saturday 13 December and the evening was well-attended despite the final of “X Factor”!!

Squad T-shirts were awarded to Josie Sparks, Adriana Giles, Cameron Nelson, Connor Wiltshire and David Giles

Congratulations to everyone! Let's hope 2009 is equally as successful.

Sunday 30th November - Salisbury low grade Red, yellow & orange belt competition

After an early start, we were all seteld in to our seats at Riverside leisure centre in Salisbury. With a team of 8 players, 4 boys and 4 girls, fighting in 6 categories!

As usual they were short of referees and time keepers; New Star were at he ready again! On the back of her latest referee exam, Natasha was already there to referee. Alison had her kit in the car "just in case", and Lisa was ever ready with her stop watch along with Mollie ran a table!

It was a slow start, with many weight groups and categories being amalgamamted, which could have been daunting but our players dealt with it admirably.

Well worth the trip as the medals show, Golds for Cameron B, Ben and Mollie, Silver for Alan and Bronzes for Myles, Amy, (in spite of a three second IPPON win over the gold medalist!) Rachel and Adriana.

Well done to all of you for your fighting and team support! Once again thank you to the supporters - with out you they wouldn't be there!

Thursday 27th November  - Sam Finn - South Glos 2008 "Young Sportsman of the year/"

Sam has been awarded South Gloucestershire "Young Sportsman of the year" for his judo feat together with his football achievements. BBC Bristol's Geoff Twentyman described him as "an outstanding sportsman and ambassador for sport". A spokesman for the council said "there were more entries then ever before for the awards. Sam deserved the award for his judo achievements alone".

Sunday 23rd November  - Western Area Team feast

It was a long day, but well worth it with Bristol taking three golds and two silvers & a bronze!

Congratulations to all the Bristol Squad players, with our contribution being Sam F, David, Dominic, Reece, Myles, Alan, Tom, Cameron N, Cameron B, Connor W, & Max

Mollie, Adrianna, Rachael, Amy, Chloe, Josie & Jade.

The competition couldn't have happened with out the New Star First aid team; Steve, Pete, Roni and Alison (with Simon from Bristol Judo Hartcliffe). Or the New Star officials, Natasha, who passed her referee exam during the day, Judy who took her Recorders exam! As well as Lisa, Roni, Alison, Mollie and Kieran.

Thank you to Ben G and Rebecca for being a team attaches, looking after the teams.

A special mention to Jack S and Kieran P for all the running around they did! To all the New Star volunteers who helped and haven't already been mentioned, Dave, Neil, John, Luke, Julie, Emma, Laura, Richard, Colin, Jules and Sue. To Giles for his fantastic photography - see below. To all the supporters making it a great TEAM event. Once again the team work enforcing our ethos of being a family club! If you were there, click below to see if you can see yourself!

Click to see photos from the day.

Saturday 8th November  - Yate Interclub

The over 8’s Nov to 4th Mon had a very successful outing again to Yate.

The girls were up first; Jade led the way, winning 2 out of her 4 fights and gained a silver medal. Next up was Josie in her first over ‘8’ competition; she also did very well, winning 2 out of her 3 fights and also won a silver medal. Last up was Amy; she won 2 out of her 3 fights (losing to a girl of 11) making it 3 silver medals in all for New Star.

A big “thank you” to Jack Smith for helping the girls during their warm-up and for coaching them during their fights.

So with the girls all doing so well it was then over to the boys. Cameron Borg, Cameron Nelson and Kieran May were up next. Cameron Borg won all 4 fights and took gold, Cameron Nelson won 1 out of 4 and got 4th place bronze and Kieran May fought very well and got 4th place bronze as well. It was then George’s turn; he tried very hard, even coming back from an injured knee in his second fight to take a bronze medal. Last up were Aidan May and Robert; both boys fought well, Aidan won 2 out of 3 and took silver and Robert took bronze. All the boys did very well; all the other clubs had experienced coaches helping them whereas our boys only had Lisa with her limited judo knowledge.

The club was also well represented on the official side with Alison, Mollie, Kieron Peacock and Dominic refereeing and Dan, Mollie, Kieron Peacock, Dominic and Lisa all time-keeping.

Very well done to all those who took part; your club is very proud of your achievements, keep up the good work.

Wednesday 29th October  - We have a new member!

Congratulations to Giles, Andrea, Finley, Oscar and Alfie on the arrival of baby Stanley.

As you can see the Norton family are taking full advantage of the club family membership rates!

Friday 24th October  - Mr Postman ...........

Letters from the BJA dropped on to the mats of three of our players! Sam Finn, Natasha & Rebecca Maslen all received letters informing them they had been selected to be members of the England squad 2008-2009. Well done to all three players & Good Luck!

Saturday 11th October  - British Championships 2008........Sam is our Champion!

On Friday afternoon there was a mass exodus up country to Sheffield. Seven Stars, were off to make their mark at the British Championships. After a long journey with hold up on nearly every motorway, we all made it to our hotels. The girls had to weigh in a 8.30am, so it was still an early start to Rebecca, Natasha & Lucy. More relaxed start for the boys weighing in at 11am.

Tough for the girls, all of them being in the same weight group u63kg. As you all know form the head line at the top Rebecca & Natasha Maslen won bronze medals! (See match report).

Next we had the boys, Dominc Nelson, u34kg, Reece Peacock, U42kg, Sam Finn, U46kg & Kieran Peacock, u50kg. This was Dominic, Reece and Kierans first British Campionships. Being December birthdays, the Peaocock boys were the youngest competitors there ! All three first timers fought extremely well we are very proud of them.

A nerve racking day was had by all thanks to our own Sam Finn; there was something about him that morning, he was ready to be a winner.

When he won his first fight, we all said, "Oh good he's won a fight" Then as the fights went on, it was "Oh my he could make it to the final!" Then when he won the semi final, it was "he could be the British Champion!"

There was then a 2 hour weight until Sam's final. Sam would like to thank all the people who stayed to support him. All the medallists, including Natasha and Rebecca paraded on to the competition area, behind the Union flag and the flags from the four home countries. You've guessed it Sam was in the last group to fight their finals! Like a film, he was the last fight to finish! To make sure the referee and judges knew he could do judo, he scored a Koka, a Wazari, 2 yukos, and then held his opponent down for the IPPON!   With a bronze in 2005, a silver in 2006, the Gold was what Sam needed to complete his set!

Congratulations to all the players, who did themseleves proud, a mention to Jay & Scott from Yate Star, & Reines, from Weston, who train at Ashton.

Sunday 5th October  - Ippons from Walsall to Hartcliffe.......

While our Orange belts were in Birmingham at the A Band National Championships our Red belts and under 8's were in Hartcliffe!

As ever Tom & Myles had huge groups; and of course they were fighting on adjacent mats at the same time! Tom won two fights, Myles won one and Mollie won one. They all fought very well and we are proud of them. Lele from Weston , who trains at Ashton won bronze, well done to her.

Over in Hartcliffe Finley, Ryan "Mumbles", Josie, Ryleigh & Tommy won all their fights! Watch our for them in the future! With Nathan H & Lucy "Vrum", only losing one each. Well done to Jack, Stephanie, Daniel, Nathan W & Liam.

Over 8's Amy won the Gold, not bad for her first over 8! Cameron N won silver Niall & Sam D got bronze.

Well done to our officials, Lisa, Mrs Wind & Dominic! Without them there wouldn't be any competitions!

Sunday 28th September - Devizes Age band Open - Rebecca is our golden girl.......

The Devizes open (or Pinewood interclub - 220 entrants 50 from Pinewood!) Saw New Star players shine, with Rebecca winning Gold in the u16 u63kg category. Then there were a handful of bronzes from Natasha, Sam, Kieran & Mollie! Reece was close to a bronze, losing in the fight for the bronze in his group. Pat & Jack were up against hard competition, fighting most of the players who will be in the mens world cup next year! Well done to all our players, the were all stars and did us proud!

Not only were our players out today, so were our officials, Alison was refereeing, Dan, Judy & Mollie time keeping!

Saturday 20th September - Bronze for Alison!

Accompanied by John, Julie, Lisa, Mrs Wind & Mr Finn, Alison was presented her Bronze BJA volunteer's award by Densign White, Chairman of the BJA and Simon Kirkland, on behave of Running sports, at the BJA awards dinners held at NIA in Birmingham.

Saturday 20th September - Display team promote New Star at Little Stoke Festival

New Star was asked to be part of the Little Stoke festival. The the dispaly team preformed their self defence routine, and then worked with children and adults to give them a judo taster session.

Thank you to Luke, Sam, Kieran, Reece , Jack & James.

Sunday 7th September - Natasha wins Bronze!

Huge congratulations to Natasha for her bronze medal in u 63kg C bands. A big pat on the back for the rest of our competitors, Rebecca, Sam, Dominic, Reins, Kieran & Reece who fought extremely well and should be proud of their fights. Pease note if John says "nothing silly" when you've got 20 seconds or less to go then it means nothing silly!!!

Saturday 6th September - Wet & Wind.........

It may have been wet and windy but that didn't stop the Stars and the families and friends heading out for the annual family outing! Good fun was had by all, from toddlers to the oldest adults!

Some children did need a change of clothes! Big thank you to our own Mrs Wind (aka Julie Windows) for organising it and to everyone who has bought food & tuck, the profits went towards subsidising it!

Now everyone needs to eat & drink more so we can buy the Christmas presents!

Some photos are available here! ...........evidence that it wasn't just the children having fun!

STOP PRESS - 2009 Brean dates 10th Anniversay 1999-2009

Get your diaries and calendars out the dates for the 10th Anniversary of Brean judo camp are Friday 8th 'til Sunday 10th May. For more details or to book a place See Julie Moore or email John .

Or Check out the Brean 2009 page for a booking form!

Friday 29th - Sunday 31st August - UK School games - Filton WISE campus

Players from England, Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland arrived at Filton WISE campus to compete in the judo at the UK school games - New Star were there to do their bit to support the event. We provided our mats to be used for the warm up area; thank you to everyone who helped with the mats!

Dan Peacock, Jack Dymond Rebecca & Natasha Maslen were part of the team of table officials. Alison Finn was responsible for the generic volunteers for the whole site. And our own John Bath was asked to present medals as Chairman of Bristol County judo!

There were a good number of New Star members in the spectators area - it was great to see Mumbles best mate Kate Howey too!

England won the overall team trophy - look out one day it could be one of our players in the team not just helping to run the event.

A representative from the Youth Sport trust commentated on how good the volunteers had been and would like us to encourage them to sign up to volunteer at the Olympics!

For more information on the games, to see video footage - you might see a familiar face click on to

http://www.ukschoolgames.com

Friday 8th August - Cross Training

Well done to the New Star contingent who participated in the South Gloucestershire soccer school this week - a great effort from Mollie, James, Sam, Connor, Tommy and Finley - all worked hard improving their soccer skills (mainly to improve judo fitness, obviously.) Check out the trophies!

Saturday 2nd August - What a surprise!

A very shocked Julie was seen at her "birthday party" on Saturday 2nd. Julie thought a lot of fuss was being made of her birthday - she soon found out why when she arrived to see not only birthday balloons and banners but "Congratulations on your Engagement" banners too! She was speechless, then John produced the ring! Don't go rushing out for new hats though, wedding date not for 12 years!

July 2008 - He's done it again!

After a break of 6 years John is again a Western area coach. Last time it was the girls and now he is the Western Area boys coach.

John will be running Area sessions for orange belts and below and separate sessions for Orange belts and above.

Watch this space for details of the first training sessions!

Tuesday 22 July 2008 - Don't Argue part II, and Time Please!

Well done to Natasha who recently completed her level three referee exam and to Dominic, Mollie and Kieran who passed their level 1 exams. Alison passed to be an Area referee. Mike Guatieri, National A referee was at Patchway on Tuesday to present the badges.

Mike said it brought back memories of when he did his first referee course 20 years ago at Patchway, organised by John. Being a National A referee Mike is often the Senior referee at competitions, and is the highlest level referee in the County. He referees from Local to Area and National competitions, and will be refereeing at the UK School Games in August.

At the time keepers course on 19th July, there was 100% pass rate - from New Star; Judy, Rebecca & Natasha Maslen, Lisa Oram, Julie Windows, Roni Giles, Dan Peacock, Jack Dymond and Alison Finn. All they have to do now to get their accrediation is be time keepers at 4 competitions. Dan, Rebecca, Jack and Alison got one under their belts at the last grading on 20th July.

Dan, Jack, Rebecca & Natasha will be volunteering at the UK school games so they will be well on their way. This together with our newly qualified referees means we are well on our way to Silver club mark!

Saturday 17 July 2008 - She's done it again!

Not content with her recent South Gloucestershire award, Alison has gone and scooped another - this time its a BJA Bronze award for volunteers!

The British Judo Association Voluteer Recognition Programme is a meaningful way to provide recognition for outstanding performance and contributions by a club volunteer who has played an instrumental role in supporting British judo's development.

The presentation ceremony is on the 20th September at the same time as the prestigious Judo World Cup event at the National Indoor Arena, Birmingham.

Way to go Alison - it is very well deserved!

Saturday 12 July 2008 - Luke's Wedding!

Congratulations to Luke and Karen who tied the knot on Saturday. We were somewhat concerned that there wasn't a wet weather plan as the rain lashed down on us over the short sprint up the M5. However, good fortune prevailed, and the sun came out just in good time for the photos and Patchway squad's guard of honour! Emotions and tears flowed in equal measure, but enough about Luke, didn't Karen look lovely?

The judoka certainly rose to the occasion and looked very smart in their white kits - well done Mums, Dads, judoka and of course Mr Bold Automatic! (Other Detergents are available...)

Sunday 6 July 2008 - Patchway Community Sports Association Demo - Scott Park

Despite the grey clouds looming overhead on Sunday, John, Alison and Luke and 19 willing judoka reported for duty on the mats at the Patchway Sports Association's "Get into Sport" day. Not quite sure how we managed to escape the downpours earlier in the morning (or later in the afternoon) but the rain stayed away (as did most of Patchway, unfortunately! - must have been those grey clouds!)

The highlight of the day had to be the juniors doing their excellent self-defence demo and the flying display (check out the photos!)

Many thanks to all who helped with the organisation and mat removals - your help was much appreciated.

28th-29th June 2008 - Kent International at K2

Big congratulations to Rebecca and Natasha who won silver and bronze at Kent at the weekend in the u63 group.

Commiserations to Tom and Sam who narrowly missed out on medals despite excellent performances, and well done to Reece (Star of the Day!), Lucy, Mollie and Myles (tough groups!) and Dominic and Kieran (Oi Ref!). Great performances in the face of tough odds - We are proud of you all!

Click here for the full story!

Table officials course now scheduled for Saturday 19th July

As the table officials course in Bath in May was cancelled, we have managed to arrange another one, this one is being held at New Star Ashton.

If anyone would like to attend the course, then please complete the form below and either give it to Lisa, so we can send them together, or if you prefer email it direct to Karen French at the BJA (email address on the sheet). If you do email it straight to Karen, could you let Lisa or Alison know.

It is not a huge commitment after you have done the course, only three competitions a year, as Ashton have two and Patchway have one. So you'll never have to leave the safety of the club! It would also be useful for parents of competitive players, to help understand how competitions work!!

Course Poster  Agenda  Booking Form

Saturday 28th June - St Michael's School Judo Demonstration

Well we couldn't have hoped for better weather on Saturday for our demonstration at St Michael's School in Stoke Gifford. Fifteen judoka from New Star Patchway and St Michael's gave a great demo of warming up, ne waza (groundwork) and tachi waza (throws). Many thanks to John Wheeldon, Bristol County Coach, for running the demo and for taking the Patchway sessions in the morning, while our coaches supported our older judoka at the Kent International competition.

If you saw the demo and fancy having a go, why not come along to Patchway Youth Centre on a Saturday Morning - the under 8's session starts at 9.30 and the over 8's start at 10:30 - all are welcome and the first session is free!

Some photos from the day are available here

Sunday 15th June - Western Area Open - Gloucester leisure centre

From a team of 9 we took 1 Gold, 2 Silvers and 4 Bronzes!

As usual in this open event, the standard was high, in the U16 category there were World Class start badges everywhere you turned!

This didn't deter our players, Myles was unlucky and lost his first two fights, which meant he was out, Dominic in the Under 16's had it even harder as he was given a score by a line judge that wasn't seen by the referee and went on to lose in golden score.

With hard groups Tom won the bronze medal in his, Sam won the bronze in his, being drawn againt the gold medallist in the pool, who was the only player he lost to! David took the bronze he had a close fight with a world class start player.

For the girls, a full house - all of them winning medals, Natasha won the Gold, beating a black belt, who'd fought in the Senior comeptition earlier, & Rebecca the silver, still nursing her bad ankle, in their group. Lucy won bronze and little Mols not letting the girls down with a silver, fighting up a weight group again (where are all the u40kg girls?)

Saturday 31st May - Bedminster Judokwai Mini Mon
Sunday 1st June - Bedminster Judokwai Open

The Mini Mon on Saturday was an Orange belt & below competition with great results for the Under 12s - Cameron Borg, Kieran Peacock and Mollie Finn each winning gold; Myles Nelson, Ben Guest and Aidan May took Silver and Alan England and Reece Peacock Bronze.

In the under 16s competition, Dominic Nelson took Gold and Jack Smith took Silver.

Click to see photos from Saturday's Mini Mon

In the Open on Sunday, Lucy won Gold in the U57s; Natasha, Sam, Kieran and Mollie won Silver; Rebecca, Alan, Dominic and Reece got Bronze.

Reece actually beat the Gold Medallist, but final positions depended on points, so he narrowly missed out. Myles also just lost out in the fight for bronze - Unlucky Guys!

Well done to all who took part!

Sunday 18th May - New Star Ashton Competition

In the Under 8's training session, everyone put in a great effort and did themselves proud. Well done to Amy, Steph, Ryan Nathan H, Nathan W, Jack, Tommy and Harvey. Congratulations to Lucy and Finley who won all their fights!

Well done to all those who took part in the Interclub. Congratulations to Ben, Dominic, Cameron N and Tom who each came away with Gold; to Myles and Kieran who narrowly missed out on Gold to take the Silver, and to Reece and Luke who took bronze

Click to see photos from the day.

Saturday 17th May - Don't argue with the referees...

Alison, Sam, Mollie, James, Kieran and Dominic went to Salisbury to attend their first Referee course. Natahsa went to as a veteran, she was going to do her level 3! It was a long day, as there seemed to be a few "older people" there that weren't sure of the new rules!

We are pleased to say that our guys all passed their theory exam and will be taking their practical at the Area grading on 20th July. Some of you may have seen Alison at her first time out on the 18th at Ashton!

Lisa, Julie W & Roni will be attending their time keepers course on 31st, Good luck to them.

9th - 11th May - Brean Judo Camp

Well, Brean is over for another year and what a scorcher! The sunshine certainly made up for the deluge suffered by last year's campers.

World Champion and Olympic Silver Medallist Kate Howey was back for the fourth year running and gave some great insight into her favourite throws, turnovers and choke techniques. Kano or Dan grade, there was something for everyone to have a go at, and to take away and perfect. Turnout on the Sunday afternoon session was excellent, despite the hours spent in the pool on Saturday afternoon, the late karaoke nights, and the BBQ on Saturday evening!

Of course none of it would have been possible without all those people who helped to organise the event and with moving and setting out mats - thanks to you all!

Will Brean 2009 surpass 2008? Its a tough act to follow, but we're on a roll... See you there!

Click here to see some photos from the weekend!

Tuesday 20th April - Gold for Natasha at Samurai U18's

On the 20th April Natasha travelled to Kidderminster to fight in an under 18 competition. She had five fights altogether and achieved a gold medal. She won 4 fights by Ippon and 1 by a yuko. Well done once again!

Tuesday 1st April - Kate Howey visits New Star Patchway to present Clubmark award

No April fool - Olympic silver medallist, Kate Howey MBE, came to Patchway to present us with our Bronze Club Mark award! We were very lucky as she even took the session! Luke "The Fall Guy" Tavener made a very good uke!

What a Fantastic evening, it was great for the children to have Kate come to the club, as many of them know her from our annual Brean Judo camp. To our players Kate is the David Beckham of judo! Karen French commented that having achieved the Bronze Club mark standard we had inspired other local clubs to follow suit. Achieving the award is not only good for the club, but also for Bristol County Judo and Patchway area.

Some photos of the event are online - click here to see them!

A BIG THANK YOU to all who helped with the food and organisation.

New Star Bristol -Seamills   map

(Seamills Community Centre, Sunny Hill, Seamills, BS9 2NQ)

New Star Patchway map

(Patchway Youth Centre, Coniston Rd)

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