Hey everyone,

Welcome to the Durham University Judo Club! Thanks for signing up.

A quick introduction in case you didn't speak to me at the Fair: I'm Nina and I'm DUJC captain – any queries, email me on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or get in touch on 07853 992 397.

I realize you are probably being bombarded with emails at the moment so I'll stick to the essential points, which are: when and where/what to wear/prices. There will be leaflets at the first session with EVERYTHING else you need to know, so don't worry about a thing. You can also email me any questions before then.

WHEN/WHERE IS TRAINING?

Training begins on Sunday 12^th October at 7pm in Hild & Bede West Gym. Members of DUJC will be outside the DSU at 6.45pm to walk you down – don't be thinking it's a long trek, we know shortcuts ;o)

The same thing will also happen on Wednesday night: training in West Gym at 7pm; we'll be leaving the DSU at 6.45pm. Any problems (e.g. you're a bit late & miss the walking down) don't hesitate to call or text me: 07853 992 397. We can let you in on the shortcuts!

Initial training will be divided as follows: Novice to begin with at 7pm; experienced at 8.15pm. Novice are welcome to stay and watch the experienced training and then join us for a drink in Hild & Bede afterwards (although I think Matt, our treasurer, is quite happy with the idea of an 8.15 trip to the bar!).

As of Wednesday 22nd, the whole of training will be open to everyone from 7pm.

One final point about training – I can't recommend enough bringing a drink with you to leave at the side of the mat.

WHAT TO WEAR:

Although we have a number of spare gis (Judo suits), it's advisable to come prepared just in case there aren't enough on Sunday. You'll need:

A strong top, preferably long-sleeved (e.g. a rugby top) but no zip-up tops please.

Jogging bottoms or tracksuit pants: no jeans! Again, please make sure your trousers don't have exposed zips or buttons on them (i.e. on the calves).

HOW MUCH?

Sessions are £2.50 each – as much as we'd love to give you your first class free, you aren't covered under DUAU insurance until you've paid.

Alternatively, you can choose to pay for the entire term: this will cost you £25, which is quite amazing when you think that there are four DUJC sessions a week! You don't have to commit to all four, but it's nice to have a choice & regular training will obviously quicken your progress – more about this in the leaflet on Sunday. £25 a term also makes us one of the cheapest university martial arts clubs. [Note: these prices apply only to students. Non-students please get in touch with me for more info.]

Finally, don't forget money for the trip to Hild & Bede Bar afterwards! I'm sure you've discovered how cheap the college bars are by now. Hild & Bede also has a burger van, which sells chocolate, sweets and cookies etc as well as the obvious burgers and chips.

For those of you who paid at Freshers' Fair, well done for getting such an awesome bargain. You only need enough money for the bar afterward.

Looking forward to seeing you all on the mat on Sunday!

Nina.