How are you using the Koka Kids certificates at your Dojo?
There are now over 100+ judo resources to use, so I thought it might be useful to brainstorm some ideas on how clubs are using them.
Here are my suggestions: Five ways on using judo reward certificates at your dojo…
1: Print Online
Once you try this you won’t look back! Save time and money by printing the certificates online. It’s cheaper than using your home printer and they look more professional.
You can choose options like paper quality, reverse printing, gloss or matt finishing etc.
Paper weights? For a substantially thick, quality certificate go for 300gsm or upwards with a gloss finish. For a light flyer-type quality, go for 130gsm weight.
Also note, it’s worth experimenting with quantities. Often there is very little difference in cost in printing 200 rather than 50 certificates.
Do consider using the reverse side of the certificate. This extra space could be used to add your own message, text about your club or/and logo etc.
Here are three online printing services to consider for printing certificates. I’ve used the first two, and been pleased with the results on all occasions.
Saxoprint: an online printing service that offers high-quality certificate printing. They provide various customisation options and deliver throughout Europe.
Pixartprinting: another reliable online printing service known for its excellent print quality. Again delivery throughout Europe.
FedEx Office: I’ve had recommendations for this service from some US based judo coaches, but never used myself.
If you live in the US, and can recommend a great online printing service - please add into the comments or the chat.
2: Add your Club Logo and Text
But hang one one sec! Before you get printing, take a second to make the certificates professional and personal by adding your club logo or text. Brand the certificates with your dojo's identity and create a sense of unity among your judoka.
There’s a space left on flyers and certificates so dojos can do just this.
Here’s how:
Open the pdf file in Adobe Acrobat Reader
Edit > Add Text (and add your text)
Edit > Add Image (and add your logo)
File > Export to Image (jpg) / or File > Save As > pdf
I use the Adobe Creative Suite (Indesign, Photoshop and Illustrator etc) for the Koka Kids books and if you have this then you’re laughing. But you really don’t need it for simple design changes. You can do it all in Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is a free desktop software, that runs on both Windows and Mac operating systems.
3: Go Digital
Another option is to send judoka their certificates electronically. It's faster, eco-friendly, and allows them to easily share their achievements with friends and family. Once you added text and logos, just email members the PDF or JPG and 🥋👍😀
4: Dedicate a Wall to Progress
Or what about dedicating a wall in your dojo to showcase progress? Hang judoka’s certificates along with their names and belt colours. This visual representation will motivate no end, and also inspire others who walk into the dojo and see the display.
5: Hold an Award Ceremony
Of course, it goes without saying one of the best ways to celebrate your judoka's achievements with an award session. Invite parents and friends and hand out the certificates. Show the parent’s the skills their children have learnt during the term, share success stories, and create a memorable event that will boost morale and foster a supportive club community.
More Certificates
A few certificates to use:
Osoto-Gari (Koka Kids 4 Skills certificates)
Ippon Seoinage (Koka Kids 4 Skills certificates)
And tons more in the Teach Techniques section.
That’s it for today, but before I go I just wanted to mention the chat again. Do feel free to use the thread below to discuss any of the above, share ideas etc.
Looking forward to hearing your ideas,
Nik
Nik Fairbrother MBE 7th Dan
Olympic Silver 1992
World Champion 1993
Triple European Champion