Featured Player
Jess Manson, our featured player, has been a revelation. During her short judo career she has maintained the most outstanding unbeaten young girls record in the state. She has won several 'most improved' and 'most promising' awards for her efforts and we expect a bright future for this young lady. She is very easy to teach, never messes around and is an example to others. Her siblings, Robbie and Isla are also very talented judoka and we are sure to hear the Manson name for years to come.
Keep up the good work Jess!
Hey everyone I’m Jess and down here is a little about myself!
What made you take up judo?
The reason I took up judo is because my daddy use to do Aikido when he was young and managed to get up to brown belt before us children came along! And he keeps demonstrating certain moves on us and telling me story’s about his training ever since. It made me very interested in Aikido but I am too young for the sport, so when we came to Australia my daddy suggested I start by learning judo, and I’ve loved it ever since!
Why do you enjoy judo?
I loved it from the very first moment I stepped on the mat. It lived up to my expectations and I thoroughly enjoy each lesson. I have a wonderful sensei/coach too! My family are very supportive and make it easy for me to attend lessons and I’ve made some of the loveliest friend’s, girls and boys. But I think the most important reason is……I can kick some serious butt and get medals for it too!
What was your most memorable moment?
The most memorable moment is winning my silver medal in the 2008 Nationals!
What is your favourite judo technique?
I think my favourite throw/technique in judo so far is kubi nage (neck throw) and Osoto gari (major outer reaping) and my favourite hold down is keza gatama (scarf hold)
Jess with most promising player award for 2007/08
Any hobbies?
I have lots off hobbies: Soccer, League Tag, running, arts and crafts and listening to music.
Favourite food?
My favourite food is roast lamb with gravy, yorkshire puddings and lots of veggies on the side!
Do you have a sporting hero?
I don’t really have a sporting hero, but if I had to chose one it would probably be my daddy!
What are your goals for 2008/9?
My goal for next year is to keep training hard and aim to get gold next year in the under 13yrs at the Nationals
Jess scoring ippon at 2008 Nationals in
Sydney