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Culture and Judo Beyond Borders
At SouthWest Judo Academy, we believe in the transformative power of cultural exchange. Since 2009, our biannual visits to Japan have provided our members with the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Japanese culture while deepening their connection to the sport of judo in its birthplace.
From the bustling streets of Tokyo to serene temples in Kyoto, our participants have explored Japan’s mesmerizing landmarks and experienced the broader global perspective of judo as both a cultural heritage and a thriving sport. Whether training with world-class judokas or sharing moments of camaraderie, these trips have fostered unforgettable memories and personal growth.
After a short pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we proudly resumed our exchange in 2023, with plans to continue this tradition in March 2025. These journeys are a testament to our commitment to nurturing both cultural awareness and judo excellence.
Junior students progress through both full-color belts and half-belts, with the following minimum ages:
No Minimum Age
Min Age: 4 Years Old
Min Age: 5 Years Old
Min Age: 6 Years Old
Min Age: 7 Years Old
Min Age: 8 Years Old
Min Age: 9 Years Old
Min Age: 10 Years Old
Min Age: 11 Years Old
Min Age: 12 Years Old
Min Age: 13 Years Old
The minimum time-in-grade is 6 months for each belt, with exceptions for White to Yellow, where the progression may be faster for enthusiastic and skilled judokas.
The Club Junior Grading Evaluation Form outlines the required knowledge and techniques for each grade. After each grading, students will receive a copy of this evaluation form, which includes valuable feedback from their coach to help guide their continued progress and development.
When juniors reach 15, they move into the Senior grading system, keeping their full-color belts up to Green. Half-belt colors revert to the lower full-color belt. This transition ensures juniors have a strong foundation for senior-level skills, such as arm locks, strangles, and kata. For example:
Senior members follow the Judo Australia kyu grading system, starting with white belt and progressing through the colors as follows:
No Minimum Age
Min Age: 5 Years Old
Min Age: 7 Years Old
Min Age: 9 Years Old
Min Age: 11 Years Old
Min Age: 13 Years Old
The Club Senior Grading Evaluation Form outlines the required knowledge and techniques for each grade. After each grading, students will receive a copy of this evaluation form, which includes valuable feedback from their coach to help guide their continued progress and development.
Grading Pathways: Knowledge vs. Competition
Note: Competition points are earned through eligible events throughout WA and Australia, based on our contest points table (see the table below).
The dan grading system represents the advanced levels of achievement in judo, consisting of 10 ranks or levels known as “dans.” Each rank reflects a judoka’s dedication, skill, knowledge, and contributions to the sport. Dan grades are prestigious milestones that require extensive experience and preparation.
No Minimum Age
No Minimum Age
No Minimum Age
No Minimum Age
No Minimum Age
No Minimum Age
No Minimum Age
No Minimum Age
No Minimum Age
No Minimum Age
The dan grading system is not administered at the club level. Instead, it is overseen at state, national, and international levels. The Judo Australia Grading Policy (available here) outlines the processes, eligibility requirements, and expected knowledge for sitting dan grading examinations.
In Western Australia (WA), dan gradings are typically held twice a year and are managed by Judo WA and the Judo WA Grading Committee. Candidates must secure their club coach’s endorsement before applying for a dan grading examination.
There are nine recognized pathways to achieve dan grades, each catering to different skills, achievements, and contributions:
Each pathway has specific eligibility criteria and limitations. Members are encouraged to discuss their options with a club coach before submitting an application. For most members, the Knowledge and Service Pathway or the Contest Points and Knowledge Pathway are the most common routes.
To assist candidates, Judo WA provides a Dan Grading Information Pack that summarizes the dan grading requirements outlined in the comprehensive Judo Australia Grading Policy. This resource is highly recommended for candidates preparing for their dan grading.
Adaptive Judo provides a tailored grading system for our special needs members, ensuring an accessible and inclusive approach. Each member’s pathway is individually designed to focus on progress and personal achievements.
Adaptive Judo provides a tailored grading system for our special needs members, ensuring an accessible and inclusive approach. Each member’s pathway is individually designed to focus on progress and personal achievements.
