Pathways

Your journey in judo — from first lesson to international competition.

Step 1

Beginners

Start your judo journey at a local club.

New to judo? Find a club near you and try a beginner class. Most clubs welcome all ages and abilities with no experience needed.

Step 2

Club Participation

Train regularly at your local club.

Club judo is the foundation of the sport. Train regularly, grade through the kyu system and participate in club competitions.

Step 3

State Training

Join state training squads.

Selected athletes are invited to state training squads to develop skills and prepare for state and national competitions.

Step 4

State Team

Represent Western Australia.

The WA State Team competes at national championships and interstate events. Selection is based on performance and commitment.

Step 5

National Pathway

Compete at the national level.

Progress through national competitions, training camps and the CombatAUS categorisation framework.

Step 6

International Pathway

Represent Australia on the world stage.

Top athletes progress to international competitions including Oceania and IJF events.

Step 7

Coaching

Become a judo coach.

Complete coaching accreditation through Judo Australia and deliver quality programs at your club or school.

Step 8

Refereeing

Officiate at competitions.

Train as a referee through the Green Shirt Beginner Referee Program and progress through grading levels.

Step 9

Kata

Study the formal techniques of judo.

Kata is the study of formal judo techniques performed with a partner, essential for grading and deepening understanding of judo principles.