Tony Nicholls

I began Judo in 1976 at Sale Judo Club (UK) under the direction of Sensei Akinori Hosaka (Kodokan 8^th Dan)  I was awarded my junior black belt in 1980 after winning the annual club junior competition. Between 1980 and 1983, I trained with Jane Bridge (the first-ever women’s world judo champion -48kg in 1980) at Sale. I was also the only under 18 allowed to train at Stretford and Urmston Judo clubs with the Northwest UK squad under the direction of Richard Baraclough (8^th Dan) and Steve Pullen (7^th Dan).

Whilst attending Durham University 1983-1986, I ran and taught at the Durham University Judo Club.  I was awarded my Shodan and coaching certificate in August 1994 from the BJC and became a senior coach at Sale Judo Club under the direction of Sensei Hosaka.

In the mid 1990’s, I trained with the UK National Squad under the direction of Neil Adams (9^th Dan, 1981 World Champion, and two time Olympic Silver medal champion).

I started Judo again in late 2024 at Crown Hill Martial Arts after my daughter and grand-daughter decided to take up the sport.

For nearly 30 years, I have been privileged to train with some of the world’s best technical Judo coaches. Regular training with World and National Champions taught me what excellent Judo looks like.