The Western Australian judo community enjoyed a rare opportunity to learn from one of the sport’s most respected figures when World Champion and Olympic medallist Neil Adams visited Perth for a special three-night seminar series from 22–24 June 2026.
Presented by Judo WA in collaboration with SouthWest Judo Academy, UWA Judo Club and Kano Judo Schools, the seminar series attracted more than 170 participant attendances across three sessions and brought together judoka of different ages, experience levels and clubs from throughout Western Australia.
Neil Adams is one of the most accomplished and recognisable figures in international judo. In addition to becoming a World Champion and two-time Olympic silver medallist, he has remained closely involved in the sport as a coach, technical expert and international commentator.
While visiting Australia on holiday, Neil generously agreed to spend three evenings sharing his knowledge with the WA judo community. He was joined throughout the series by his wife, Niki Adams, who represented Canada in judo at the Olympic Games and provided further experience and insight for those attending.
Strong Opening at SouthWest Judo Academy
The series commenced at SouthWest Judo Academy on Monday, 22 June, with more than 40 participants taking to the tatami.
The opening seminar provided players and coaches with an opportunity to learn directly from Neil and Niki in an engaging and welcoming environment. It set the tone for the remainder of the week, with participants able to explore technical concepts and benefit from Neil’s extensive experience at the highest levels of international judo.
More Than 70 Attend UWA Session
The second seminar was held at UWA Judo Club on Tuesday, 23 June, and attracted the largest attendance of the series, with more than 70 people participating.
The strong turnout demonstrated the enthusiasm within the WA judo community to learn from one of the sport’s leading technical authorities. Players, coaches and other members of the community came together for another memorable evening of instruction and shared learning.
A Fantastic Finale at Kano Judo Schools
The series concluded at Kano Judo Schools on Wednesday, 24 June, with more than 60 people on the mat.
Participants ranged from young children beginning their judo journeys through to experienced athletes and coaches. The diverse group reflected the broad appeal of the seminar series and the value of creating opportunities for the entire WA judo community to learn together.
The final session provided a fitting conclusion to three special nights and allowed another large group of Western Australian judoka to benefit from Neil and Niki’s knowledge, experience and passion for the sport.
A Collaborative Success
The Neil Adams WA Seminar Series was a wonderful example of what can be achieved when clubs and organisations work together to create opportunities for the broader judo community.
Judo WA sincerely thanks SouthWest Judo Academy, UWA Judo Club and Kano Judo Schools for their collaboration and for hosting the three sessions.
Judo WA also extends its gratitude to Neil and Niki Adams for generously sharing their time, knowledge and experience, and to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of the series.
The visit was a memorable occasion for judo in Western Australia and an experience that will be remembered by participants for many years to come.
View photos from across the Neil Adams WA Seminar Series
