Featured affiliated academy: Universal Judo Academies, BJJ UK
Where is the gym located?
Universal Judo & Taekwon-Do Academies, 9 Sovereign Way, Wallasey, Wirral, United Kingdom.
How many people train there?
Judo – 30, Taekwondo – 800.
Is the gym growing – if so by how many new members each month or year?
1 – 2 per month.
What are the highest and lowest belt grades training?
Lowest – white belt, Highest – 4th Dan.
When did the gym open?
January 2023.
Some facts about you:
Name: James Thompson
Age: 36
Belt: 4th Dan Judo
Profession: Retail
Years in BJJ: 20+ in Judo
Other martial arts: Japanese Jujitsu, Submission Wrestling, Catch Wrestling, Self Defence
Currently living in: Wirral, United Kingdom
Originally from: Wirral
Please tell us the story of how your gym came into existence
I was approached by Master Richard Saunders of Universal Taekwondo to aid and assist in Grappling elements of his taekwondo program and it grew from there. I was about ready to leave Judo and take up drinking but starting the classes has reinvigorated my life.
Tell us about the people that train in the gym – who are they?
Young, old, recreational players.
Why do they train in Universal Judo Academies, BJJ UK?
Self defence, fitness, arts & crafts, laughs.
What are some of the challenges of running a BJJ gym in general, and in your area specifically?
Balancing the books and attaining new equipment.
How do you see the future for BJJ in your area?
Hopefully it will slowly increase in yield with a strong base of lifetime students who then pass on their learnings to others.
What’s the best thing about Universal Judo Academies, BJJ UK?
The laughs and humility. Watching people grow and develop from the first day they walk in then a year later are part of the furniture and developing strong friendships and respect for each other.
What would you recommend Globetrotters to see in your area apart from the inside of your gym?
Birkenhead Park.
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