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Our journey through the judo values continues, and as April has officially arrived, it is time to learn about our next value: Responsibility. Our ambassador for this month is Andreja Leški, Paris 2024 Olympic Champion in the -63kg category.
In judo, responsibility is not just a rule, it becomes a way of thinking and acting that is built gradually through experience and guidance. From the first lessons, students are introduced to the importance of respecting their surroundings, teachers and peers. They learn that their behaviour, attitude and focus affect everyone in the dojo, not just themselves.
For example, when practicing techniques like throws or holds, a judoka must be fully aware of their partner’s safety. They are expected to apply moves with precision and control, never out of frustration or ego. This teaches them to think before acting, to be considerate and to take ownership of their decisions. When a mistake happens, a responsible student acknowledges it, learns from it, and tries to do better, not because they are told to but because they understand it is the right thing to do.
Outside of physical techniques, responsibility shows up in smaller actions too, arriving on time, keeping the uniform clean, helping one another to grow, and listening attentively. These daily habits shape a mindset that values effort, consistency, and contribution to the group.
Leski shares her own perspective on the term:
“Responsibility for me is a big thing because I try and I think everyone should try to be the best version of themselves. And with this showing young generations the steps that they have to go through to really become a champion, not only by winning on the podium, but with winning in life, with being a good person, with respecting one another, with including one another, and I think that’s a responsibility we take.”
The importance of this value cannot be overstated. In judo, a responsible person is not just safer, they are more trustworthy, more coachable and more respected. These qualities don’t stay in the dojo. They influence how someone acts at school, at work, and in life, turning them into someone who others can rely on, someone who leads by example. That is the deeper lesson judo teaches, to be a better member of the society.
Author: Szandra Szogedi