Toronto, March 27, 2024 (Judo Canada) – Judo Ontario and Judo Canada are proud to announce the strengthening of their collaboration with the arrival of James Cunningham at Judo Canada as part-time manager of the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP). Cunningham, who will also be promoted to the position of executive director of Judo Ontario, will lend his expertise and dedication to the development of judo on a national level.

The new incumbent, who will officially assume his duties on April 1, expressed his enthusiasm for his upcoming professional challenges. “I’m thrilled about this new position, which was created through a collaboration between Judo Ontario and Judo Canada,” he said.

“I’ll continue to work with the board of directors and the staff to enhance our member services and to develop the sport in Ontario. I’m also honoured to take on the role of part-time manager of the NCCP and to draw on the knowledge and experience I’ve gained in various national sports organizations.”

“We’re extremely pleased to welcome James Cunningham to the Judo Canada team,” added Nicolas Gill, Chief Executive Officer and High Performance Director of Judo Canada. “Thanks to his experience at Judo Ontario, he’s well-equipped to ensure a smooth transition, especially with the imminent departure of our esteemed collaborator Andrzej Sadej. James’ appointment to the position reflects our shared vision of strengthening judo across the country.”

Judo Ontario is also delighted with the new collaboration. Brian Kalsen, president of the provincial organization, highlighted the importance of the new partnership in the development of coaches across the country. “We’re proud to have one of our employees occupy a key role in coaching education in Canada,” he said. “Over the past year, James has played a pivotal role in furthering the development of Judo Ontario, and we’re confident that he will continue to excel in his new responsibilities.”

As he accepted the new position, Cunningham also emphasized the importance of coaches in the sport. “Coaches play a crucial role in every sport,” he insisted. “I look forward to working with the many dedicated coaches to deliver a quality educational program that will ensure safe and effective programs for all.”

The collaboration between Judo Ontario and Judo Canada promises to further strengthen the judo community nationwide by focusing on coach development and continuous improvement of the sport for all participants.

-30-

For more information or to request an interview, please contact:

For more information:

Patrick Esparbès
Chief Operating Officer
Judo Canada
(514) 668-6279
p.esparbes@judocanada.org