Greenhithe star Finley Watson says being selected in the England U15 Judo squad is proof that hard work pays off.

The 12-year-old learned of his inclusion in the 2016 squad earlier this month and believes the call-up was down to the many hours spent at Crayford Judo Club.

Watson, a pupil at Dartford Grammar School, claimed a bronze medal at the British Championships in December and is now hoping to impress when training with the national squad.

He said: “I was extremely happy with the call-up. It shows that all the hard work paid off.

“I certainly didn’t expect it but I had some good results last year and did well at the British Championships which means you have a chance.”

Watson trains three times a week plus attending sessions at a county, regional and national level.

The young star picked up the sport at the age of 5 and insists Judo is now a huge part of his life.

“Since starting competing when I was 8, it has become a way of life for me, not just a sport,” he said.

“It’s a great feeling when a new technique that I’ve been working on comes together and I beat someone with it.”

Dad Russell says Crayford Judo Club, based in Crayford Community Centre, has played a big part in his son’s development.

“We are all so proud of Finley – this is a big step for him,” Mr Watson, 46, said.

“It’s a real passion of his and he just enjoys training and competing.

“Credit has to go to the coaches at Crayford because they do a fantastic job. It’s an excellent club with a good track record of helping those of all abilities and ages.”

If selected, the Judo prospect will be jetting off to Holland in June to compete for his country.

Before then, Watson will continue training with the England squad at the British Judo Centre of Excellence at Walsall.

“It would be a real privilege to be picked for the tournament,” he added. “To compete for England against 25 other countries would be amazing.

“But at the moment I’ll just focus on my training and try to keep improving.”

To find out more about Crayford Judo Club visit crayfordjudoclub.co.uk.

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