🥋Talented Sports Program – Judo (Launching 2026)

The Hills Sports High School is proud to announce the official launch of our brand-new Talented Sports Program (TSP) – Judo, commencing in 2026. This marks an exciting milestone for our school, as we become the first school in New South Wales to offer a dedicated school-based Judo program aligned with the Australian Olympic Pathway.

A First for NSW Schools

This pioneering program offers student-athletes the opportunity to pursue their passion for Judo while receiving a quality education. With a custom-built dojo housed within our Don Mitchell Fitness Centre, the facility will include:

• A sprung floor system designed for injury prevention and dynamic movement
• 5cm Tatami Olympic-grade Judo mats, ensuring a safe and professional training environment
• A space tailored to support the technical, tactical, and physical demands of the sport

This investment demonstrates our school’s commitment to supporting emerging Olympic sports and providing elite pathways for all athletes.

Meet the Coach – Nathan Katz

We are thrilled to announce Nathan Katz as the Head Coach of our Judo TSP.

Nathan is a two-time Olympian, having represented Australia in Judo at both the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. With a career that includes multiple Commonwealth Championship titles, World Cup medals, and years ranked among the top Judoka internationally, Nathan brings a wealth of experience and leadership to our program.

Following his competitive career, Nathan transitioned into coaching, focusing on athlete development and technical mastery. He has worked alongside elite junior and senior athletes and brings a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed on the international stage.

Nathan’s approach combines:

• Technical and tactical excellence
• Athlete wellbeing and mindset development
• Long-term athletic progression within the Judo Australia High Performance Pathway

What the Judo TSP Offers

Students accepted into the Judo Talented Sports Program will gain access to:

• Elite Coaching & Mentoring from one of Australia’s most accomplished Judo athletes
• Two structured training sessions per week integrated into the school timetable
• A personalised Strength & Conditioning Program run by our expert S&C team
• Opportunity to progress through Judo Australia's national development pathway
• Support with balancing academic progress and athletic demands
• A high-performance environment that promotes resilience, discipline, and personal growth

Be Part of History

The introduction of Judo to the Talented Sports Program is more than a new sport offering; it’s a chance to become part of a legacy. Whether you’re aiming for national titles, international competition, or simply to challenge yourself at the highest level, the TSP Judo program is the place to build your journey.

Applications for the 2026 intake are now open.