Sophie Cox named as coach to lead Team England judoka in this summer’s Birmingham Commonwealth Games

Sophie Cox

Littleborough’s two-time judo Olympian and double world BJJ (Brazilian jiu jitsu) champion Sophie Cox has been named as one of three coaches to lead Team England judoka at this summer’s Birmingham Commonwealth Games.

England Talent Programme coach Cox has worked within the England Talent Team for British Judo since 2018, coaching a plethora of fighters from pre-cadet through to senior.

Cox, who has also represented Great Britain and England as a fighter at every level, told the British Judo Association: “It’s a privilege to be part of the coaching team for the 2022 Commonwealth Games. It means a lot to be able to work with a talented team of fighters and coaches in preparation for such a major event right here on our doorstep.

“Having competed in the Commonwealth Games in Manchester and the Olympic Games in London, I understand what it means to compete in front of a home crowd and for anybody involved in these games, those watching, as well as those taking part, it really is a special experience.

“It will be great for judo in this country.”

Cox competed in the Olympic Games in both 2004 and 2012, and the 2002 Commonwealth Games where she won bronze in front of a home crowd.

The opening ceremony for the Commonwealth Games is Thursday 28 July with the judo programme starting on Monday 1 August and finishing on Wednesday 3 August.