Veterans Grappling Foundation Limited

🏆 The Inaugural John Whipp Trophy 🏆

The Australian National Judo Championships at Carrara saw the first-ever John Whipp Trophy contested between the ADF Current Serving Team and the ADF Veterans Team.

With Major Albert "John" Whipp passing away just a few weeks ago, the event carried even greater meaning. John was a passionate supporter of military judo and veterans, making this a fitting tribute to his legacy.

The contest could not have been closer:

🥋 Round 1 – ADF Current Serving Team
🥋 Round 2 – ADF Veterans Team
🥋 Round 3 (Tie Breaker) – ADF Current Serving Team

Congratulations to the ADF team for claiming the inaugural trophy.

A huge thank you to Young Veterans for helping Veterans Grappling Foundation field the Veterans Team and making this historic event possible.

U73kg Private Aaron JONES
U81kg Squadron Leader Andrew BELL
U90kg Sargent Michael PENNISI
O90kg Lance Corporal Craig GRESHAM
090kg Sargent Andrew EAMES
O90kg LTCOL Iain MCCAUSLAND

Coach Michael SHIELDS (Vietnam Veteran 2RAR)

We're already looking ahead to next year and would love to see veteran teams representing Navy, Army, Air Force, Police and Emergency Services. If you're a current or former serving member with a judo background and would like to be involved, please reach out.

Vale Major Albert "John" Whipp. Your legacy will continue to bring current and former serving members together on the mat for years to come.

Vale Major Albert John Whipp AM, CSM

The Veterans Grappling Foundation is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Major Albert John Whipp AM, CSM.

John was more than a highly respected military officer, martial artist and coach — he was a pioneer, mentor and a man whose influence reached far beyond the mats. His dedication to military unarmed combat, judo and martial arts development in Australia helped shape generations of practitioners and instructors.

For the Veterans Grappling Foundation, John was not only an early inspiration behind our charity's vision, but also a valued supporter over many years. His belief in the positive impact that martial arts can have on the lives of veterans and service personnel helped encourage and strengthen our mission.

His legacy lives on through the countless students, soldiers, coaches and veterans he mentored and inspired throughout his life.

We extend our sincere condolences to John's family, friends and the wider military and martial arts communities during this difficult time.
Rest easy, Sir. Your service, leadership and contribution will not be forgotten.

Vale Major Albert John Whipp AM, CSM
Lest We Forget

CALLING ALL ADF, ABF & LAW ENFORCEMENT VETERANS
Judo Australia National Titles – Military & Police Veterans Team (June 5–7)

We are putting together a combined Australian Veterans Team to compete in a proposed Military & Police Teams Event at the upcoming Judo Australia National Championships.

This is a unique opportunity to represent alongside fellow veterans from:

Australian Defence Force (ADF)

Australian Border Force (ABF)

State & Federal Law Enforcement

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
Veterans (former serving) who are keen to step back on the mat and be part of something competitive and meaningful.

TARGET TEAM STRUCTURE (FLEXIBLE):

Men: U73, U81, U90, 90+

Women: U70, 70+
(Final categories will adapt based on available athletes)

We are aiming for:

A minimum team of 6 competitors

Female representation strongly encouraged

Reserves welcome

IMPORTANT NOTES:

This is a veterans-only Australian team (ADF / Police / ABF)

The event format will be flexible — the priority is getting a team on the mat

Self-funded, however some sponsored entries may be available

Entries and accreditation will sit with Judo Australia

TIMELINE:
We need a rough indication of numbers and viability within the next 1–2 weeks.

This is about reconnecting, representing, and putting veterans back on the mat together at a national level.

Register your interest:
[email protected]

Include:

Name

Service background (ADF / Police / ABF)

Weight category (approx.)

Current training status

Let’s build something credible and competitive. If you’ve still got one more in you, now is the time.