Meet Our Coaches
World-class instructors dedicated to developing champions and building character
Our Founder
The vision and passion behind Club 62 Judo
Joe Burns
Head Coach & Founder
“Joe Burns founded Club 62 Judo with a vision to bring world-class judo training to Blackburn and the Ribble Valley. With a remarkable Judo 6th Dan (Red & White) and decades of experience, Joe has built Club 62 into one of the most respected judo academies in the North West.”
Qualifications
- Judo 6th Dan (Red & White)
- BJJ Purple Belt - Carlson Gracie
- Level 3 Coaching Qualification
- Instructor at Carlson Gracie Blackburn & Clitheroe
- DBS Enhanced Disclosure
- First Aid Certified
Career Highlights
- Founded Club 62 Judo — 30+ years of excellence
- Exceptional 6th Dan ranking achievement
- Developed multiple national and international champions
- Established three club locations across Lancashire
- Pioneer in grassroots judo development
- Mentor to generations of coaches and athletes
- Built lasting school partnership programmes
Our Head Coach
Leading with international experience and proven excellence
Nathon Burns
Head Coach
“With over 30 years in judo, Nathon Burns brings unparalleled international experience and expertise to Club 62 Judo. As Head Coach of the Ireland National Judo Team, Nathon brings elite-level knowledge to every session.”
Qualifications
- BJJ Blackbelt - Carlson Gracie (Under Andre Pimenta)
- Judo Blackbelt (4th Dan)
- 17 Years Full Time Judo Athlete
- Level 5 IJF Coaching Qualification
- Head Coach & National Performance Lead for Ireland National Judo Team
- DBS Enhanced Disclosure
- First Aid Certified
Career Highlights
- Led Ireland National Team to international success
- Developed multiple national and international champions
- Over 30 years of coaching experience
- International competitive career spanning 17 years
- Recognised for excellence in youth development
- Pioneer in integrating traditional and modern training methods
Our Coaching Team
Experienced instructors committed to your development
Alfie Wardle
Judo Coach — Schools & Clitheroe
Qualifications
- Judo Coach — Clitheroe schools programme
- Occasional coach at the Club 62 hub
- BJJ Purple Belt
- Judo 2nd Dan
- Level 2 Coaching Qualification
Key Achievements
- All Stars Gi & No-Gi Gold - Purple Belt
- Trained International: Russia (Dagestan), Thailand, USA, Mexico, Columbia, Singapore & more
- Youth development specialist
- International training experience
Specialties
Henry Wakes
Assistant Instructor
Qualifications
- Assistant Instructor at Carlson Gracie Blackburn & Clitheroe
- BJJ Purple Belt - Carlson Gracie
- Judo 1st Dan
- Level 1 Coaching Qualification
Key Achievements
- GB International Competitor
- Former Full Time Judo Athlete
- International competitive experience
- Elite athletic background
Specialties
Our Coaching Philosophy
The principles that guide our instruction
Respect First
We teach respect for oneself, others, and the art of judo as the foundation of all learning and development.
Individual Growth
Every student progresses at their own pace, with personalized attention to help them reach their potential.
Traditional Values
Maintaining the traditional principles of judo while adapting our teaching methods for modern students.
Safety First
Creating a safe learning environment where students can challenge themselves with confidence.
Character Development
Building discipline, perseverance, and mental strength that extends far beyond the dojo.
Lifelong Learning
Encouraging continuous improvement and the pursuit of excellence in all areas of life.
Qualifications & Standards
All our coaches meet the highest professional standards
BJA Qualified
All coaches certified by British Judo Association
DBS Checked
Enhanced background checks for child protection
First Aid
Current first aid and emergency response training
Continued Education
Ongoing professional development and skill enhancement
Train with Champions
Experience world-class coaching that has developed champions for over three decades. Start your journey with us today.