An Ayr Judo coach has been honoured as the National Disability Coach of the Year by JudoScotland. 

Charlie Strachan, who coaches at Tams Brig Judo Club in the town, was presented with the award for his dedication to making the club an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. 

The club has a diverse membership which includes members who have physical, learning, and sensory disabilities.

His dedication ensures that every member feels not only welcomed but truly valued, enabling them to fully engage in club activities and advance in their judo journey.

Charlie emphasised the collective effort of the Tams Brig team, expressing gratitude to his fellow coaches, parents, and athletes.

He said: "This award was not just down to me. It was teamwork on a massive scale from JudoScotland, club coaches, parents, and athletes themselves.

"Everyone had a part to play, and I am just very proud I could be the catalyst bringing all this together."

Tony Penfold, JudoScotland's Head of Business Delivery, said: “From the minute I walked into the club Charlie told me about everything and everyone – except himself!

"Such humility was matched with immense pride in the club, all its members and their plans for the future.

"The buzz in Tams Brig Judo Club tells you how inclusive it is, everyone’s included, everyone’s involved and everyone’s having a great time – especially Charlie."

Charlie adapts his coaching to allow judoka to feel a technique and ensures a thorough understanding of what is being done.

He strongly believes in nurturing home-grown coaches, inspiring members of his club to start their own judo coaching journey.

This has culminated in a diverse coaching workforce that supports Charlie’s drive to introduce judo to a wide range of individuals.