Killarney Judo began the new year on a high note after two of its athletes were invited to train with the High Performance National Squad at Sport Ireland Headquarters in Dublin.

Club members James Maher, Ciara Forde and Tim Kellytook part in the session, gaining valuable experience as they continue their journey toward competing for their black belts later this year. Both also trained alongside national-level judoka aiming to qualify for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, providing a rare insight into elite preparation.
The national squad opportunity follows a successful December for the club at the All-Ireland Championships, where Killarney Judo returned with an impressive medal haul. Younger competitors led the way, securing three gold medals, two silvers and four bronzes across multiple age groups.
Developing home-grown talent remains a key priority for the club in 2026. Coaches say the focus will be on building confidence, competition experience and technical skill through increased participation in local and regional tournaments.
With clear pathways from grassroots to national level now firmly in place, Killarney Judo is looking forward to another successful year. The development of the new Derreen Sports Centre, including a dedicated judo dojo, is expected to further support training and help represent the town on the national stage.

Killarney Judo athletes join High Performance national squad

Killarney Judo began the new year on a high note after two of its athletes were invited to train with the High Performance National Squad at Sport Ireland Headquarters in Dublin.

Club members James Maher, Ciara Forde and Tim Kellytook part in the session, gaining valuable experience as they continue their journey toward competing for their black belts later this year. Both also trained alongside national-level judoka aiming to qualify for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, providing a rare insight into elite preparation.
The national squad opportunity follows a successful December for the club at the All-Ireland Championships, where Killarney Judo returned with an impressive medal haul. Younger competitors led the way, securing three gold medals, two silvers and four bronzes across multiple age groups.
Developing home-grown talent remains a key priority for the club in 2026. Coaches say the focus will be on building confidence, competition experience and technical skill through increased participation in local and regional tournaments.
With clear pathways from grassroots to national level now firmly in place, Killarney Judo is looking forward to another successful year. The development of the new Derreen Sports Centre, including a dedicated judo dojo, is expected to further support training and help represent the town on the national stage.