North East Judo Academy
Family-friendly judo club in the Louth/East Meath area. We provide fun and engaging classes for children, teens, and adults, helping everyone build confidence, fitness, and friendships through judo.
our groups
Little Judokas
(6–9 years)
This group focuses on fun, foundational skills, and learning the basics of judo in a safe and supportive environment.
Training takes place
Tuesdays and Fridays at 6:00 PM.
Junior Judokas
(9–12 years)
For older children, this group develops technique, fitness, and confidence while introducing more advanced judo skills.
Training takes place Tuesdays and Fridays at 7:00 PM.
Training takes place Tuesdays and Fridays at 7:00 PM.
Teens & Adults
(12 years+ & seniors)
This group caters to teenagers and adults, combining skill development, competitive training, and physical conditioning.
Training takes place
Tuesdays and Fridays at 8:00 PM.
What is judo
Judo is an Olympic sport and martial art that was created in 1882 by Professor Jigoro Kano in Japan. The word Judo means “The Gentle Way” — a reference to using skill, balance, and leverage rather than strength.
Unlike striking martial arts, judo does not involve kicks or punches. Instead, it focuses on throws, pins, and submission holds, making it both a practical form of self-defence and an excellent way to build fitness. Judo became an Olympic sport in 1964 (Tokyo) and today it is the most widely practiced martial art in the world.
Beyond the physical side, judo also develops confidence, self-esteem, focus, and respect. Regular practice builds body awareness, balance, and coordination — helping people become fitter, healthier, and happier both on and off the mat.
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WHY CHOOSE US?
At North East Judo Academy, we believe judo is for everyone. It is a sport that builds confidence, discipline, and friendships while keeping training fun and rewarding. With members from around 15 different nationalities, our dojo is a truly welcoming and diverse community. Here’s what makes NEJA the right place for you:
Family-Friendly Environment
We welcome children, teens, and adults of all ages. Our club is built on respect, friendship, and fun, making it a safe and supportive place for the whole family.
Expert Coaching
Our passionate coaches are dedicated to helping every member achieve their goals from learning the basics to competing at the highest level.
Competitive Spirit
For those who want to test themselves, NEJA provides opportunities to train and compete locally, nationally, and beyond with guidance every step of the way.
Community & Opportunity
With a vibrant mix of cultures and backgrounds, and as part of the wider Irish judo family, we offer pathways for personal growth, competition, and lifelong friendships both on and off the mat.
WE ARE neja
Est. 2018
North East Judo Academy (NEJA) was founded to bring the Olympic sport of judo to Drogheda and the wider Louth/East Meath area. Our club welcomes members of all ages and abilities — from children taking their first steps on the mat to adults looking to stay active, learn self-defence, or compete at the highest level.
At NEJA, we believe judo is more than just a sport. It builds confidence, discipline, and resilience while fostering respect, teamwork, and friendship. Our coaches are passionate about guiding every member on their journey, whether that means learning the basics, developing skills for competition, or simply enjoying the health and social benefits of training.
We train twice weekly in a safe, supportive, and family-friendly environment where everyone is encouraged to grow at their own pace. With strong values at our core, NEJA is proud to be part of both the local community and the wider Irish judo family.
At NEJA, we believe judo is more than just a sport. It builds confidence, discipline, and resilience while fostering respect, teamwork, and friendship. Our coaches are passionate about guiding every member on their journey, whether that means learning the basics, developing skills for competition, or simply enjoying the health and social benefits of training.
We train twice weekly in a safe, supportive, and family-friendly environment where everyone is encouraged to grow at their own pace. With strong values at our core, NEJA is proud to be part of both the local community and the wider Irish judo family.
our dojo
North East Judo Academy has recently relocated to St Mary’s Parish Hall, Old Hill, Drogheda, giving our members a fantastic new home for training. Since moving in, our members and families have been busy tidying, fixing, and brightening up the hall to make it a warm and welcoming space.
Our dojo is equipped with 120 professional 5cm-thick judo mats, providing a safe and spacious training area that allows us to welcome large groups on the mat.
While St Mary’s Parish Hall is our training base, NEJA also proudly hosts our competitions in St Oliver’s Community College, Drogheda, giving us the room to showcase the excitement of judo and bring the wider community together through the sport.
Our dojo is equipped with 120 professional 5cm-thick judo mats, providing a safe and spacious training area that allows us to welcome large groups on the mat.
While St Mary’s Parish Hall is our training base, NEJA also proudly hosts our competitions in St Oliver’s Community College, Drogheda, giving us the room to showcase the excitement of judo and bring the wider community together through the sport.
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Our Partners & Sponsors
