Player of the MonthMarch 2001 |
Clive Douglas
is our first Player of the Month. He is a 5th dan black belt and has been training at Solihull Judo Club for the past 26 years. He certainly qualifies as an honorary member!By Lena Strang
Solihull Judo Club Correspondent
How long have you been practising judo?
"I have been doing judo since I was 11 years old so it must be about 35 years."
Where do you train?
"My own club is Northampton but I also train at Solihull, Coventry and Bedford"
What is your present training schedule?
"I train judo three times a week but I also do some swimming and weights"
What are your favourite techniques?
"Ouchi-gari and seoi-nage"
Who has influenced you most in judo?
"It's got to be Brian Jacks and Neil Adams. They were at their peak when I was coming on the scene in the young men's squad."
What are you achievements in Judo?
"I was a member of the National Squad and have taken part in international competitions such as the Dutch and Belgian Open. Over a period of ten years I have been picking up medals each year in the British Masters. And of course, I once beat Roy Muller in the Midland Open!"
What are the highlights in your judo career?
"I think the highlight was gaining my 5th dan. This was presented to me by Brian Jacks at my club in Northampton. I have also been County coach for the last 5 years."
Now tell us, what are the secrets of your success?
"I think it is having had help and coaching from different people at different stages of my judo. This includes Pete Barnett who always made me feel welcome at Solihull Club and continued to encourage and motivate me. I also think that Bill Davies (British Champion) from Kettering managed to bring the best out of me as a junior through his training methods."
Have you got any other interests or hobbies?
"Yes, I do skiing and go regularly to the Alps. I swim, do weight training and motorcycling. I also like to do travelling."
What are you aiming for next?
"I am taking part in the Masters World Judo Championships in Phoenix, Arizona in June and hope to gain the World title. I would also like to get my 6th dan."
Any thoughts or pearls of wisdom you would like to offer?
"You can cheat the world but you cannot cheat yourself. This applies both to training and work."