The British Judo Association announced this week that Sophia Robus has won the Sam Haycock British Schools Championship Adaptive Player of the Year 2026.
Sam Haycock was a gifted young judoka who achieved national recognition when he became a British Schools Judo Champion. Known for his determination and sporting spirit, he won numerous medals in competitions and inspired many around him through his commitment to the sport. Sam sadly died in 2021 at the age of 16 after getting into difficulty in the water at Ulley Reservoir in South Yorkshire.
Since then, his family and organisations such as the fire service have used his story to promote water-safety awareness among young people, while the award in his name keeps his sporting legacy alive.
Today his legacy continues through the Sam Haycock Award, presented at the British Schools Judo Championships to recognise an outstanding adaptive judoka.
Sophia trains at Keisen Judo Club, East Grinstead and Dynamic Judo in Bexhill.
Sophia’s mother, Janine, said, “We are very proud of Sophia. She had a rough time over 18 months ago when she lost her confidence due to her size, but she turned it around with people believing in her, and supporting her to become the judoka she is today. Despite being an autistic person she strives in the sport she loves, despite her difficulties.
Her achievements are remarkable and she deserves every success.”
Dom Downes, headteacher of Rye College, commented, “We are incredibly proud to share some fantastic news from the British Judo Schools Championships. Huge congratulations to Sophia Robus, who brought home a Gold medal for Rye College with an outstanding performance. This is an amazing achievement and truly shows our ‘Be Committed’ value in action through her dedication and hard work.
“We’re also thrilled to celebrate Sophia’s recognition as the Sam Haycock British Schools Championship Adaptive Player of the Year 2026. This honour reflects her remarkable progress, perseverance, and inspirational success representing Great Britain in competitions abroad. Next up: Belgium in April! We wish Sophia the very best of luck and can’t wait to hear how she gets on.”