The Judo Code is a list of values that Professor Jigoro Kano believed all judoka should follow. By following this code, they would improve themselves and ultimately society.

The values are:

• Courtesy
• Courage
• Honesty
• Honour
• Modesty
• Respect
• Self-control
• Friendship

You can learn more about what these mean here.

British Judo has added another value, that of Fair Play. This was added in response to the horror stories that we hear frequently of player, parent and fan behaviour in other sports, at all levels. Fair Play really can be summarised as being a good sport, playing by the rules, don’t cheat, equity and equality.

Players are asked about the Judo Code as part of their gradings.

This provoked an interesting discussion with the younger players on Thursday – is it ever ok to swear at the referee when their decision goes against you/your team (they were all very clear, NO!). To “dive” to win a penalty, to feign an injury to get a free kick? To take drugs to enhance performance? The posturing, posing, name calling and showboating of other combat sports that get regular media coverage? Some of these are harder to answer – some are plainly cheating but play out regularly across our TV screens in elite, professional sport. If sporting idols demonstrate this type of behaviour, what chance is there for grassroots sport? Just imagine if all tennis players had followed the example of John McEnroe….

It would be foolish to deny that Judo has had some unsavoury incidents. But as one of the largest sports in the world (both in terms of member countries and participants) they are rare. This may be of course simply because there is no (or very little) money to be made in Judo (sad but true) so less incentive to cheat. Or it may be because of the values that Professor Kano built in from that start.

All sports coaches in the UK should follow the Code of Practice for Sports Coaches. Players and parents should also be aware of the Code of Conduct published by Sport England. By following the Judo Code and these simple rules we can keep Judo and sport in general fair, safe and enjoyable for everyone.