Chief Instructor

Malcolm Slade 7 Dan

Malcolm was born in 1940 and started his judo career at 15 years of age, at 'Stennings Gymnasium' (run by the well known and respected coach, Sensei Strauss) and then Oakleigh Youth Club (coached by Clive Birchmore).  Later, Malcolm transferred to Caulfield Judo Club and received further coaching from such notable judo instructors as Kevin Todd and Arthur Moorshead with many visits to the clubs run by Bob Todd and Frank Dando. Malcolm also came under the instruction of Sensei Shinojima (8th Dan) both in Australia and Japan.  Malcolm also had the opportunity to travel to Japan and Europe through business and so was able to train at judo clubs wherever he stayed.  The combination and influence of such high level coaching has resulted in Malcolm developing into one of the most respected judo coaches in Victoria and Australia, and developing one of the most successful judo clubs, producing over 10,000 club members and 24 Dan grades, over a time span of 38 years of running the Southern Judo Club. Malcolm has dedicated his whole life to judo, with his wife Lynnette (Yon-Dan) and three sons also involved in Judo and helping to run the club. Malcolm not only loves the sport but also loves teaching judo and helping the young develop their confidence, prowess and possibly find their niche in life.

My Best Achievements

Achieving 7th Dan,  Achieving OJU 'A' Grade Referee,  24 Club Members achieving their Dan grades,  Operating 'Southern Judo Club' for 38 years with over 10,000 members in that time, in the good years achieving over 220 attendances per week and running 12 classes per week,  Helping to unify judo in Victoria, Receiving the JVI Honorary Life Membership Award (2004) and the JVI 'Bronze' class Service to Judo Award.

My Hobbies and Interests

Other than Judo, I'm an avid golfer ( 8 handicap, rules official ), was an avid squash player, and have a keen interest in computer technology and gardening.

Why Judo

It has stimulated me and affected my whole way of life.

My Motivation in Coaching

Seeing young people, especially those with poor coordination, develop into fine mature adults.

My One Wish in Judo

No continual jostling for personal power. Everybody working together for the benefit of the sport, not their own benefit.  That the IJF would recognise older referees with an emeritus IJF referee qualification.

My Future Goals

Not long to go now! Would like to see Southern/Bentleigh continue, so trying to develop good coaches to take over.

My Advice to Young Judoka

When your competition days are over, remember to give back to judo what it gave you. Become involved in one of the many ways you can serve the sport.