In the world of judo, the journey through the Dan grades is not merely a measure of technical skill, it is a reflection of character, contribution, and lifelong dedication. The rank of 6th Dan, or Rokudan, stands as a rare and prestigious milestone, awarded not for competitive triumphs alone, but for decades of service to the art, the community, and the spirit of judo itself.
To be awarded the 6th Dan by the British Judo Association is to be recognised as a true elder of the sport - someone who has not only mastered technique but has shaped the culture, mentored generations, and upheld the values of mutual welfare and respect. It is a grade that honours wisdom, humility, and the quiet leadership that inspires others to grow.
Rochdale Judo Club President Maurice Clarke embodies all that this grade represents. His legacy is etched not just in medals or accolades, but in the countless lives he has touched, the standards he has upheld, and the unwavering example he continues to set on and off the mat.
It’s now more than fifty years since Maurice gained the grade of black belt 1st Dan. His promotion record reads as follows:
In the earlier days, Dan grade status was incredibly rare in the UK. Maurice achieved his first Dan in the open-weight era, despite his diminutive stature and weighing in at a mere 10 stone. Never one for
self-promotion or claiming bragging rights, he waited nearly twenty years before grading again.
Category D of the promotion criteria for 6th Dan states that it is reserved for ‘exceptional club activity’, and that is Maurice to a tee. He has been the prime mover in building the status and reputation of Rochdale Judo Club, recognised by the club over a decade ago with the title of Honorary Life President and also by the BJA as a Life Member.
Among the many he has influenced over the years are Warren Schofield (7th Dan) and Dave Duffy (6th Dan), both of whom have no hesitation in attributing their own achievements in large part to Maurice’s guidance. He continues to lead by example, still voluntarily coaching twice a week at the age of 89.
The management team at Rochdale Judo Club felt that one further promotion, to 6th Dan, was both well-deserved and long overdue.
The portfolio presented to the BJA for consideration was comprehensive and extremely impressive.
Fittingly, the supporting tributes included alongside the application form came from Richard Barraclough (8th Dan), who regularly trained with Maurice in his heyday; a glowing letter from Alan Jones MBE
(8th Dan); heartfelt words from Seth Birch (7th Dan); and an endorsement from the BJA NW Area
Committee, who voted unanimously to support the bid.
Letters of support from Rochdale Judo Club were also included, Warren Schofield, Dave Duffy, and Eddie Thomas all wrote compelling arguments for the case.
Widely known by the nickname ‘Peter Pan’, Maurice continues to defy his age and acts as a mentor to every new generation of judoka that passes through the club. His longevity is a marvel to behold, and it is
impossible to calculate the number of judoka upon whom he has had an incredible and lasting influence over the past sixty-plus years.
