Our Founder

Craig Robbins

Craig presently holds a 4th Dan Black belt and boasts a wealth of over 30 years of experience on the tatami. With a fervent zeal for guiding others towards their personal aspirations, he recently secured the coveted title of ‘COACH OF THE YEAR’ for junior players, an accolade bestowed upon him by the British Judo Council.

This recognition stands as the pinnacle of his coaching journey thus far. Having carved an illustrious path in competitive arenas spanning County, National, and International tournaments, Craig clinched numerous BJC National Titles and emerged triumphant in the 2022 BJA English Open championship.

In his capacity as the Leicester Area Squad Head Coach, Craig fervently dedicates himself to his responsibilities within the region. His overarching vision involves drawing a larger cohort of athletes into the ambit of international tournaments and fostering a robust reservoir of Judoka talent in the Leicester Area.

A seasoned veteran with over two decades of Judo coaching background, Craig also holds a Level 3 Personal Training qualification. The culmination of his aspirations to establish a permanent Dojo and fitness centre infuses him with a sense of privilege and gratitude. He ardently merges his passions to infuse vivacity, vitality, and superior coaching into this novel Leicester-based facility. At the heart of his endeavours is the drive to instil a culture of wholesome living amongst his students from an early age, guiding members towards making informed lifestyle choices through his dedicated mentorship. Whether through in-person or online coaching, Craig stands poised to assist individuals in attaining their self-defined objectives, providing unwavering support throughout their journey.

The inception of a Judo Academy germinated in Craig’s mind years prior; however, the demands of a young family necessitated a patient wait for the opportune moment to manifest his aspirations. The year 2019 marked the nascent stages of bringing this dream to fruition, buoyed by the aspiration to accompany and coach students on their odyssey from novices to black belts, nurturing potential future champions along the way.

Craig’s expansive offerings encompass Judo and a spectrum of martial arts classes accessible to all age groups and fitness levels, reflecting the inclusive essence of Judo as a sport. Furthermore, he extends bespoke 121 Personal Training and coaching regimens to those seeking specialization and enhanced skill development, improved fitness, or holistic well-being pursuits.