Pictures/ North East Judo Academy
North East Judo Academy in Drogheda is celebrating a series of recent achievements, including its first black belt for a judoka who began their judo journey with the club, the launch of its new Shield Series and nine medals at the Leinster Open.
Established in 2018, the club has continued to grow its programme for judoka of different ages and levels.
First black belt milestone
James, a member of NEJA’s senior group, recently achieved his black belt after having joined the club when it was established in 2018.
He is the first judoka to have started their judo journey with NEJA and gone on to achieve a black belt.
The club said the achievement reflected years of dedication, training and perseverance and marked an important milestone in its own development.
92 young judoka take part in Shield Series
NEJA also launched its new Shield Series 2026/27 at St Oliver’s Community College in Drogheda on Saturday, 3rd October.
The opening event brought together 92 young judoka from nine clubs across Leinster.
The four-event series includes both standing judo and Newaza, the ground-fighting aspect of the sport, before concluding with the Shield Finals in April 2027.
The first event was supported by Shane Black Property Advisors & Agents, which sponsored the medals, while Landy Muldoon & Co. will sponsor medals for the second event.
Volunteers helped with preparation, registration, refereeing, table officiating and the general running of the competition.
Young members of participating clubs also took on officiating and support roles.
The second Shield Series event will take place on Saturday, 21st November and will focus on Newaza, with further events scheduled for February and April 2027.
Nine medals at Leinster Open
NEJA athletes also enjoyed success at the Leinster Open on Sunday, 11th October, returning with nine medals from ten competitors.
The club secured three gold medals, one silver and five bronze.
Genevieve, Patrick and Niko won gold, while Bevan took silver in the Pre-Cadet category.
Bronze medals went to Roisin, Maria, Tomás, Piotr and Tiernan.
The club said Genevieve put experience gained at training camps in France and Spain over the summer to good use, while Patrick showed strong composure and Niko produced an impressive display.
Tomás was also praised for his throwing techniques, while Piotr delivered a strong performance.
Timur and Bevan competed in the Cadet categories, putting in determined performances despite not securing medals in those events.
More competitions ahead
The coming weeks will remain busy for North East Judo Academy.
Athletes are due to compete at the West of Ireland Open in Galway on 7th November, followed by the Munster Open in Cork on 15th November.
The club will then host the second event of the NEJA Shield Series on 21st November.
Attention will then turn to the All-Ireland Championships on 5th December at the National Indoor Arena in Dublin.
Following a busy year of training and competition, members will come together for the club’s Christmas party at The Black Bull on 12th December.
