British Judo Launches Patron’s Club to Create a Lasting Legacy
British Judo is proud to announce the launch of its new Patron’s Club—an exclusive initiative designed to bring together passionate supporters who want to play a direct role in shaping the future of judo in Great Britain.
More than just a sport, judo is a discipline rooted in respect, resilience and community. The Patron’s Club has been created to protect and grow those values, while ensuring British Judo has the world-class structures, resources and support required to thrive—from grassroots participation right through to elite performance on the international stage.
Through the Patron’s Club, supporters will help provide vital investment into athletes, coaches and clubs across the country. This support will enable British Judo to nurture young talent, remove financial barriers to participation, and reinforce judo’s power to change lives—on and off the mat.
To demonstrate his commitment, our Chair, Gerry Gualtieri has pledged £10,000 as the Club’s first donation, setting the tone for an initiative built on belief, ambition and shared purpose.
The Patron’s Club works in close partnership with the British Judo Trust, the charitable arm of British Judo. The Trust exists to use judo as a force for good, supporting projects that promote accessibility, inclusivity and opportunity for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.
From grassroots programmes and adaptive judo initiatives to helping athletes progress towards international success, the Trust ensures that financial barriers never stand in the way of participation. Contributions made through the Patron’s Club directly support this mission, helping British Judo expand its reach while staying true to its core values of respect, perseverance and discipline.
Patrons can join the Club at Gold (£5,000–£10,000), Silver (£3,000–£5,000) or Bronze (£1,000–£3,000) levels, each offering a range of exclusive benefits and recognition opportunities.
These include:
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Recognition on the British Judo website and in the annual report
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A framed certificate signed by the Chair and President
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Inclusion on the Patrons’ plaque at the National Training Centre
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Exclusive Patron lapel pins
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VIP tickets and reserved seating at national events
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Invitations to the annual Patron’s Reception Dinner
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Behind-the-scenes access to training sessions and Q&A opportunities with coaches and athletes
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Patron networking events and dedicated Club communications
By investing in the Patron’s Club, supporters play a direct role in shaping the future of judo in Great Britain. Donations help ensure athletes, coaches and clubs have the resources they need to develop, compete and succeed—while safeguarding the long-term sustainability of the sport.
As a registered charity, donations made through the British Judo Trust may also be eligible for Gift Aid and corporation tax relief, helping maximise the impact of every contribution.
Whether you are a lifelong judo supporter, a former competitor, a business leader, or someone who believes in the power of sport to inspire change, the British Judo Patron’s Club offers a unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy.
Together, we can create a stronger future for British Judo—every competition, every medal, every moment.
For further information about joining the Patron’s Club, please click here
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