From the outset, head coach Peter Gardiner said that the club's main aims were to develop young people's self confidence and reach their individual potential within the sport.

During the five-year period, Sportif has established itself as the number one club in Scotland for junior judokas, with both Scottish and British champions within its ranks. But, although pleased with the progress to date, coach Gardiner believes that players within the club are capable of producing results, not only at national, but also at international level. He has recently prepared a long-term strategy for the club which he feels can bring Commonwealth and Olympic medals to the Borders.

Peter, who has been a professional coach all his working life told TheSouthern: "Over the years I have been fortunate enough to work with some fantastic players who have progressed to become Commonwealth, European and World medallists.

"When I see the talent and commitment that now exists within the club, I have to say that I believe we not only have players of the same ilk, but we also have much more depth than before. When I say that some players have the potential to go all the way, I don't say it lightly. But potential is one thing, transferring potential into Olympic medals means a huge commitment by players, their families and all the support mechanisms that go with developing a world-class athlete. But why not, it just really depends on how much the players want it."

The day the announcement was made that Glasgow had been selected for the Commonwealth Games in 2014, Peter saw this as the perfect event to aim for. Judo has been Scotland's most successful sport in terms of Commonwealth medals.

The age range of the Scottish team for Glasgow 2014 will be between 16 and 28, with most players in their early 20s. Currently, Sportif Borders has around 20 Scottish medallists aged between 10 and 16 years of age, making them eligible for selection in 2014.

Although there is still eight years until the games, Gardiner feels that the preparation must start now.

Peter approached Rick Kenney, coach development officer for Scottish Borders Council.

Rick, himself an ex-international, offered his support and suggested that the club applies for special support for a few of the Sportif squad.

Andrew McDonald from Melrose – currently Scottish champion and British Schools bronze medallist – and Scottish and British School champion Tal Gardiner from Stow were successful in being accepted to the Scottish Borders athlete support programme.

This funding will now be used to access strength and conditioning training with specialists Ciaran Beattie and Bill Noble. In addition, the pair will work with gymnastics and boxing coaches. In the coming months, they will also have access to information on nutrition and video analysis.

Andrew, who is also a keen rugby player, said: "The athlete support programme is excellent and will give us a head start on our competitors.