Wyre Forest Sport

Future is bright for Samurai after work starts on new clubhouse

11:00am Friday 27th January 2012

THE head coach of Samurai Judo Club believes its new £250,000 building will lay the foundations for the long-term future.

History was made when Wyre Forest District Council councillor Marcus Hart broke ground at the site on Zortech Avenue.

The new clubhouse is the result of a partnership between Samurai and their current landlords Gilt Edge Social Club.

The facility, which is expected to take three months to build, will double the current space used and also be equipped with solar panels.

It will also contain a video analysis room and a second mat area for specialist practice.

Coach Andrew Haffner said: “It’s been a long haul, but finally we can start to get our own roof over our heads.

“This building should see the club move into a new phase with much improved facilities and also security for the future.”

Most of the money has been raised directly by the Samurai members, with some external support including £10,000 from Kidderminster And District Youth Trust and £3,000 from the British Judo Association Trust.

Local music stars Ballroom Glitz also staged a benefit concert for the club which raised over £1,000. The premises will also be used by Kidderminster Karate Club and other groups.

Cllr Hart, who is the district coucil’s deputy leader, was joined by Jim Coates and Gilt Edge’s Maurice and Rowan Sandoz as well as Cllr Dave Little and Haffner.

Ian Mills, a senior coach from Samurai who is also co-ordinating the project and doing the interior work through his company, I.A. Mills Builders, was also present at the historic moment.

“Perhaps this is the reason why the two groups are already working so well as a team, since they share a similar philosophy,” Haffner added.

Anyone who wants to help provide sponsorship for the new facility can call Haffner on 07761 122977 or visit samurai.org.uk

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