Humble Judo Fighter – Danny Williams, London 2012 Olympian, Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Champion. Inspiring Leadership Interview with Jonathan Bowman-Perks

123. Danny Williams, London 2012 Olympian, Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games Champion. Athlete & coach at Camberley Judo Club

During the 12 years that Danny has been a full time Judo player at Camberley Judo Club he has spent the majority of that time as British number one and, has represented Great Britain at 8 major events, including London 2012. Along with adding a Commonwealth Games gold medal to his collection Danny has won many international medals and titles all over the world.  

After falling in love with Judo at 4 years of age Danny’s dream has always been to pursue a life and career in competitive Judo, first as an athlete, then as a coach. Currently, in the twilight years of his fighting career, Danny is the kids and recreational senior coach at Camberley Judo club, working under club head coach, and Team GB Olympic Coach, Luke Preston. 

His dad was a Military Police soldier who he never knew. The bit of advice he wished he had when he first started out was: experience is the best advice. He had one goal which was to win the Olympics. He learnt a lot about falling short and errors. Also he’s learnt how dangerous it can be to have a win versus lose goal obsession. As the famous Chinese saying goes – before mastery: Chop wood carry water. After mastery: Chop wood carry water. He’s found that Marcus Aurelius and Donald Robertson give great stoic advice. Such as we are what we repeatedly do – excellence is a habit.

His Leadership Tip- Never ask anyone to do something that you would not have been willing to do yourself     

Danny said:

Judoka.
I have over ten years of coaching experience with children and adults during my 27 year involvement in Judo.
In my time as a competitor I have become an Olympian at London 2012, a Commonwealth Games Champion at Glasgow 2014, collected 10 international titles and medals and, have represented Great Britain at 7 major events.
I’ve been a full time athlete at the renowned Camberley Judo club for 12 years where I also run the kids and recreational senior sections of the club. I aim to lead enjoyable sessions for all of my students, installing strong, positive attitudes and basic fundamentals while keeping them engaged with Judo as they develop in their personal lives.

I was impressed by Danny as a very humble man yet highly inspiring.