Meet Your Instructors....
JOHN WILLOUGBY
John started his martial arts career in Karate at the age of 18 where he gained his 1st Dan. He began his Judo career late at the age of 35, and accomplished his competitive Dan Grade when over 50 years of age. Throughout his competitive career John has won the BJC Kyu Grade Nationals open-weight Gold on numerous occasions.
John's other claim to fame is that he was crowned "Salford's Strongest Man" in both 1971 and 1972 (but now uses Lynx!).
KEVIN GRANNELL (1st Dan)
Kevin started Judo at the age of ten, and progressed to National level at both BJC and BJA; becoming a member of the BJC National Squad. He has won numerous judo regional titles, BJC National titles and two National silver medals. Kevin is now an coach at Walkden Judo Club and is also an active competitive veteran.
DAVE ROGERS (2nd Dan)
Dave started Judo at the age of six and holds a BJC Level 3 Coaching Award. Before joining Walkden Judo Club, Dave had been involved in coaching Judo in Cumbria over a three year period; including coaching children with hearing disabilities.
Dave has won various silver medals in the BJC Nationals, and his international career has included a bronze medal in the Irish Open, and Gold, Silver & Bronze medals at the Malta Open.
Dave is the Brother of Michelle Rogers, who is competing for Great Britain in the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
CARL WETHERBY
Carl started Judo at the age of nine and enjoyed a successful Junior career, winning numerous regional and National titles. In his early Senior career Carl won two National BJC Silver Medals BJC. After a break from judo, Carl has now resumed his competitive career and is currently training to obtain his 1st Dan. Carl is an active coach at Walkden Judo Club and will be coaching our potential Judo Champions in the Under 8 age group.
PHIL FITTON
Phil started wrestling at the age of seven and, in his free-style wrestling career has won over 30 titles including three Junior English National Championships, two British National Titles and a European Collegeiate Title. He has competed at World level, including the World Cadet Championships in Tehran in 1996. Phil was a regular member of the National squad and has now brought his wrestling abilities and coaching skills to Walkden Judo Club.
