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Elgin Judo Club coach Audrey Pirie wins JudoScotland Referee/Official of the Year award





A Moray martial arts coach and referee has been recognised for her dedication by her sport’s governing body.

Elgin Judo Club coach Audrey Pirie was been awarded JudoScotland’s referee/official of the year prize for 2024.

Audrey Pirie officiating at this month's Judo Scotland Scottish Championships.
Audrey Pirie officiating at this month's Judo Scotland Scottish Championships.

The accolade is part of the JudoScotland coaching and volunteering awards, a national initiative that recognises the hard work and commitment of judo’s volunteers across Scotland.

Audrey has been involved in judo for more than 32 years, and has been described as a “true inspiration” for the members of Elgin Judo Club.

Not only has she taught the skills and arts of her sport, she has encouraged fellow members to explore officiating as a meaningful way to stay engaged with judo.

Audrey has demonstrated her commitment to the growth and development of judo by dedicating a lot of her free time to refereeing at competitions across the UK.

And she was nominated for her award by her club colleagues.

Her nomination stated: “She has, and continues to give so much of her time to judo, both at the club as a coach and as an experienced referee up and down the country at competitions.

“She's a really selfless person, always encouraging all the members at the club to continue their judo journeys both as players and in how they can volunteer in other aspects of the sport like refereeing.

“Everything she's done for the club has been huge, and she's inspired lots of our members to give refereeing a go."

JudoScotland support officer Sam Ingram said: "Audrey consistently goes above and beyond to support judo events with dedication and enthusiasm.

“Her contributions to the sport throughout her refereeing career are remarkable, making her an invaluable member of the team."

Some of Elgin Judo Club’s young members have been inspired to take their first steps into refereeing at local events and festivals thanks to Audrey’s efforts.

During competition randori sessions, Audrey not only educates participants on the rules but also emphasises the diverse opportunities to contribute to judo beyond competing, fostering a deeper appreciation for the sport.

She also played a pivotal role at the recent Scottish Open Judo Tournament, JudoScotland’s flagship international competition, held at the sportscotland National Centre in Inverclyde.

A decade ago, Audrey was part of the technical support team at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

The referee/official of the year award honours an individual who has made an outstanding impact in their role, significantly enhancing the competition structure and creating exceptional opportunities and experiences within judo.

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