MEET OUR TEAM
LEADERSHIP TEAM
AL POLKINGHORNE / JUDO AOTEAROA PRESIDENT
Alan is responsible for the day to day operation of JA. Al has a strong passion for sport and a deep appreciation of Judo.
KIRI MAYERS / SECRETARY
Kiri first experienced the world of Judo when her son began training at age eight. Six years on and she has seen firsthand the many positive benefits of Judo for children and young people. Kiri is excited to be a part of the Judo Aotearoa Development Charitable Trust and have the opportunity to help provide access and support for as many kids as possible to learn and excel in this great sport.
KUMA AZUMA / JAPANESE LIASON
Born in Kobe, Kuma has been doing Judo from 10 years old he now resides in the sunny beachside town of Orewa where he and his family run the famous Yawara ramen restaurant. Kuma is a integral part of Judo Aotearoa with his deep connections to Japan.
FRED FEKI / FINANCE DEVELOPMENT
A banking and finance professional with over 15 years’ experience. Fred brings an array of skills across customer relations, project management, delivery and regulatory compliance. Proven ability to lead and manage complex projects from conception to completion, on time and within budget.
COACHING AND DEVELOPMENT TEAM
JENNIE LANGRIDGE / MENTAL WELLBEING & COUNSELLING
As a counsellor, Jennie works in partnership alongside her clients on their journey. She actively listens to their stories and discovers what is important and meaningful for them. Jennie weaves her skills with their expertise to navigate an individualised path forward, promoting autonomy and empowering them to find their own inner strength. She cultivates an environment of honesty, reflection, and calm.
DAVID COOPER / PHYSIOTHERAPY
David is a sports physio with over 15 years experience, and the owner of Kinetics Physiotherapy. He has worked alongside the championship winning NZ Breakers, and as a consultant with both Triathlon USA and Canada. David continues as a touring physio for Athletics NZ, and has accompanied teams to World Championships. He brings vast experience in the youth sport and injury prevention space and will be supporting Judo players in this capacity.
GRANT SCHOFIELD / NUTRITION
Professor Grant Schofield, based at Auckland University of Technology's Human Potential Centre, advocates for a healthier office environment. Collaborating with colleagues at AUT's School of Design, he developed office furniture aimed at reducing prolonged sitting, a factor linked to potential negative impacts on life expectancy for office workers. The innovative designs encourage people to stay on their feet throughout the day, promoting a more active and health-conscious work setting.
CRAIG HARRISON / STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
Craig’s research focuses on public health, emphasizing lifestyle interventions for preventing and treating chronic diseases. Initially, he studied physical activity and urban design. Engaging in international collaborations, he contributed to protocol development and publications, especially with the IPEN.
Recently, Craig shifted toward a "positive health" framework, moving from disease-oriented to well-being discussions. He advocates for a goal-oriented approach to health, drawing on positive psychology. Additionally, his team challenges traditional guidelines, exploring alternatives like carbohydrate restriction for effective solutions in diabetes and obesity prevention
