Joes Judo Dynasty Continues
A Judo “Living Legend” is gracing the dojo of Thornaby Pavilion, 74-year-old Joe Glynn has over 60 years of experience in Judo is resurrecting Judo at the Pavilion after the previous coach decided to hang up her jujogi.
Stockton born Joe a 3rd Dan has over 50 years of coaching experience and in his time has coached numerous national champions and several of his former pupils have competed at the Junior Olympics and the Paralympics.
Joe’s love of the sport started just after the second world war when he had his first experience of Judo at ICI Billingham under the watchful eye of Stan Gillies an ex army unarmed combat instructor. Joe was immediately hooked on the sport and started training 3 times per week.
After several years and moves, Joe started Stockton Judo Club with the opening of Stockton Sports Centre in 1966 where he started a 30 year relationship that produced national titles galore.
Joe who is aiming to build a successful competitive club at Thornaby Pavilion said, “Judo is a superb sport for teaching discipline and increasing fitness levels but requires dedication to succeed”.
When asked how he keeps his enthusiasm for the sport after over half a century, Joe replied, “There is no better feeling when one of your pupils is standing on the podium collecting a medal and deep down inside you feel you have contributed to their success”.
If you are interested in getting to grips with Judo, Thornaby Pavilion is holding classes on Tuesdays and Fridays 6.30-7.30pm for children aged 6-11 years of age and 7.30-8.30pm for children aged 12 and above. If you require further details contact Thornaby Pavilion on (01642) 760971.