As a rule, little brothers don't like to take the advice of big brothers.
Connor Slooyer is the exception.
The 12-year-old Slooyer will compete at his first national judo championship this summer. His older sibling, 15-year-old Brandon, will be at nationals for the fourth time. With the experience Brandon has on the big stage, he often shares words of wisdom with Connor. He passes along fighting tips and tactical insight. Brandon also helps Connor in a more hands-on manner every time they spar at home or during practice sessions at the North Capital Judo Club.
Connor soaks it all in and his willingness to do that has made him a better judoka as he prepares to battle the best in Canada.
"About a month ago I wasn't really conditioning that much and not really focusing on judo," Connor said. "But Brandon has been to nationals four years in a row now -- he has a lot more experience, he knows what it's like and he wants me to get ready for it. That's definitely what he's done this year."
The national championship tournament is July 5-8 in Toronto. Connor will compete in the U-15 under-46-kilogram class and Brandon will be on the mats in the U-17 under-73kg division.
Brandon, a legitimate medal contender after fighting to a 2-3 record last year, is glad Connor will be along for the ride this time. He wants Connor to enjoy the experience and do well, which is why he has spent so much time working with him.
This season, Brandon has seen Connor make steady progress. Connor shows just how far he has advanced every time he goes head-to-head with his brother and mentor.
"Of course I'm a lot stronger but he's catching up -- he's a fighter," Brandon said.
"He's very good at standing techniques and I can't wait to see him move up to the U-17 division and pull off chokes because I know he's choked me out a couple times."
When the Slooyer boys arrive in Toronto, their plan will be simple -- compete to the best of their abilities and let the results take care of themselves.
"We're both going to try our best and just pull out all the stops," Brandon said.
Christian Hausot, coach at the North Capital club, said the Slooyer brothers have all the qualities of successful, high-calibre athletes.
"They are very motivated, committed and focused -- everything that you need to go to these meets," Hausot said. "I think they're going to do really good.
"They are both strong on the ground and that's exactly what we want because if somebody knocks you down and you're not good down there, you've had it."
Connor and Brandon will be the only North Capital athletes at nationals. From the Prince George Judo Club, Taylor Schaus, Kyle Wilkinson, Kristen Yawney and Quinn Clemas will all test their talents. The Hart Judo Academy, meanwhile, will be represented by Grace Northrop, Juliana Bergstrom, Byron Laass, Melissa Nelson, Lavanna Laass, Chris Grilz, Nathanial Hirvi and Brendan Bellavance.
