Hi, I’m Matthew, I’m 15 years old, and I live and breathe judo.

I’ve been training at Shudan Judo Club in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire since I was 6. After nine years of hard work, I became the youngest ever black belt (1st Dan) in my club’s history this March — but that’s just the beginning.

So far, I’ve:
• Won 100+ gold medals, 70 silvers, and 50 bronzes
• Become a 3x AJA National Champion
• Been selected for the AJA British Squad to compete in Holland this May
• Started coaching as a junior coach, helping younger members grow in the sport

Now, I’m chasing my biggest dream yet:
To train for a full month at the Kodokan in Tokyo, Japan — the birthplace of judo.

Alongside my coach Andrew, I’ll train five nights a week, learning from world-class instructors and fully immersing myself in the history and spirit of judo. This experience will take my training to the next level — and everything I learn will be passed on to others at my club when we return.

I’m raising funds to help cover:
• Flights to Japan for me and my coach
• Accommodation and living expenses for one month
• New gis for intensive training
• Fees for training at the Kodokan

This is more than just a trip — it’s an investment in my future, my club, and the sport I love. Every donation, big or small, brings me one step closer to making this dream come true.

Thank you so much for your support — and for helping me represent British judo with pride.

Please donate or share if you can!