About Us
A Breif History
Founded in 1982 by Sensei Danny Simmons (Kodokan 5th Dan), Woy Woy Judo Club grew out of the original 1770 Judo Club and proudly holds the title as the longest-running martial arts club on the Central Coast. Sensei Danny’s dedication to traditional Japanese judo and its core values—self-discipline, respect, and personal growth—continues to guide every student who steps onto our mats.
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Originally based at the Woy Woy Sport and Recreation Centre (now the Peninsula Community Centre), our family-run club quickly developed a strong community spirit. Over 40 years, we’ve combined traditional teachings with a competitive edge, supporting members from grassroots beginners to international champions. Deeply involved in the local community, we’ve been recognised with awards from Rotary, Gosford City Council, and Judo NSW, including “Outstanding Club of the Year” and a 3-star rating from the Judo Federation of Australia’s Star Club Program.
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Following the passing of our founder and head coach, Sensei Danny Simmons Snr, in 2014, his legacy has lived on through the continued dedication of the Simmons family. Son Sensei Daniel, along with Sensei's Kieren, Rhys, and Coralie, have all played vital roles in ensuring that Danny’s teachings and spirit remain alive in the dojo, welcoming all who walk through the doors with the same values and commitment he instilled from day one.
Woy Woy Judo Club has produced champions and representatives across every level—from local and state to national and international competitors—who have proudly represented our club around the world. We remain committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where members of all ages can develop their skills, character, and confidence on and off the mat.
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Our Story
Founded in 1982 by Sensei Danny Simmons at the Woy Woy Community Centre, Woy Woy Judo Club is the longest-running martial arts club on the Central Coast. Built on the values of traditional Japanese judo, the club has remained a family-run, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting discipline, respect, and community spirit.
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For over 40 years, WWJC has been deeply involved in the local community, hosting judo displays at fetes, Relay for Life events, and expos, while providing high-quality, affordable training for all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence has been recognised through numerous awards, including accolades from Rotary, Gosford City Council, Judo NSW, and the Judo Federation of Australia.
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From grassroots to global stages, WWJC has produced local champions, national athletes, and international representatives—even Olympic-level judoka. With a strong focus on safety, tradition, and personal growth, our club continues to inspire the next generation of martial artists on and off the mat.
Danny Simmons
The History and Legacy of Sensei Danny Simmons
1941 - 2014
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Danny Simmons’ journey in martial arts began at the South Sydney Police Boys Club in Waterloo, where he first took up boxing. But it was in 1955, at just 14 years old, that he discovered judo—and from that moment, he never looked back.
With natural talent and unwavering dedication, Danny quickly rose through the ranks, representing New South Wales at multiple national championships and earning a silver medal for Australia at the 1968 Oceania Championships in New Zealand, in what became the longest recorded judo match in history.
He also trialled for the Australian Olympic team in both 1964 and 1968 before moving to Japan to train at the Kodokan, the birthplace of judo, where he refined his understanding of traditional techniques.
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Returning to Australia, Danny brought back not only skill but a deep respect for the art and its values. After years of coaching in Sydney, he relocated to the Central Coast and founded Woy Woy Judo Club in 1982. More than just a coach, Danny was a mentor who taught judo as a path to discipline, strength, and compassion.
Under his leadership, the club flourished, producing national and international competitors, including representatives at world championships and the Olympic Games.
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Danny's lifelong commitment to judo and community service earned him numerous accolades, including the Australian Sports Medal, life memberships with Kodokan Judo Institute, Judo NSW, and the Black Belt Register, as well as induction into the Australasian Martial Arts Hall of Fame.
In 2014, Danny passed away after a long illness, but his spirit lives on in the club he built and the lives he touched. Since 2016, the Danny Simmons Memorial Judo Tournament has been held each year in his honour, celebrating the enduring legacy of a coach, mentor, and pioneer of Australian judo.