The word respect has taken on a whole new meaning for members of Dowty Judo Club.

In fact, it makes up the basis of their ethos.

Peter Salter, the club’s chairman and head coach, stresses its importance and relevance for all members.

The club, who are located at the Dowty Sports and Social Ltd site in Staverton, follow rules such as “always listen to your coach” and “help others who may be less experienced than you”.

There is also a code of conduct which must be followed by coaches, players, parents and anyone else involved with the thriving club.

With attitudes like this, it’s no surprise that they’ve been going a good while.

The club was formed over 50 years ago and have certainly not been short on achievements.

Just one look at the club’s decorated walls can tell you this.

“Callum Woodham won the British Minors 2017 and the following day Chris Andrews won the British Masters, so we have huge talent from opposite ends of the spectrum,” enthuses Pete.

“Two players have also qualified for the British school finals in March 2018 after achieving gold at the area qualifier,” he says.

These achievements barely scratch the surface – in the last 35 years, the club has produced over 75 Dan grades at various levels.

Players have been consistently successful at junior, senior and masters level.

In fact, they’ve had National Police Champions and West of England Champions at junior and senior level among their ranks.

That’s not all – in 2007, they received the Sport England Club Mark Bronze award which has recently been re-validated.

Despite the winning streak they seem to have competitively, the club actively encourage members who just want to take part for fun.

“On the 13th December, we have our awards evening,” Pete explains, which awards players with competitive achievements as well as the recreational players.

“On the last Wednesday of every month, the juniors and seniors do some training together, which is something truly special. Otherwise they are two separate identities.”

The club also boast a huge age range.

“Members start as young as seven. Our oldest members are in their 50s and 60s”, says Pete.

As if Pete couldn’t be prouder of the club, he has one more thing to add.

“There are four or five instances where parents, who started as under-12s, are on the mat with their children after having been at the club for 30 or 40 years. It’s unique to have that kind of follow-through,” says Pete proudly.

If you’ve got plenty of respect and are feeling up to the challenge, then Pete believes that Dowty Judo Club could well be the place for you.