Judokas battle it out on the mat

Shoulder throws, hold-downs and submission chokes were on show as personnel from the ADF Combat Sports Association competed at the 2026 Judo Australia National Championships on the Gold Coast from June 3 to 7.

The ADF team secured victory in the military and police teams event, with their 10-member contingent drawn from across the country reclaiming the annual Major John Whipp Shield from the ADF veterans team.

LS Kyle Mainey secured two wins through dominant throws and controlled hold-downs.

Despite conceding more than 20kg to some opponents, he relied on technique, speed and adaptability.

“You win by throwing your opponent flat on their back, holding them on the ground for 20 seconds, or by arm-bar or choke submission,” LS Mainey said.

Supporting ADF’s athletes at the event was Army Reserve health operator Pte Grace Woo, who assisted with athlete preparation, on-the-spot medical treatment and injury management.

With more than nine years of experience as a civilian physiotherapist, she conducted pre-match taping, mat-side assessments, and provided recommendations on whether injured athletes could safely continue competing.

“My eyes are always on the mat. If something happens, I’m ready to go,” Pte Woo said.

Pte Obian Laidlaw usually competes at national and international level, but was sidelined for this competition following recent shoulder surgery, and instead performed as the ADF team coach, guiding athletes through the physical and mental demands of national-level competition.

“I approached each athlete individually and asked how they wanted me to coach them, because some athletes want direction during their matches and others want to be left alone,” Pte Laidlaw said.

“You have to be really concise during matches or the message gets lost.

“It’s also good for my own development as a competitor because I’m normally on the other side of the coaching box competing.”

Future competitions for ADF’s judo team include the Adelaide International Open in August and the Perth International Open in September.

To get involved in ADF Combat Sports, go to www.revolutionise.com.au/adfmaa