The European Judo Championships of the Small States Nicosia 2024 received special visitors, including Mr. Rikkos PATTICHIS, a member of the National Sports Organisation of Cyprus and a former judoka. His presence at the event carried deep personal significance, given his enduring passion for the sport. Following the opening ceremony, he shared his enthusiastic impressions.
My first impressions, well, I was sure this event would be great, but this is more than I expected, – he said.
Mr. Pattichis extended his heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Christodoulides CHRISTODOULOS, the Technical Director, and Mr. Sotos TRIKOMITIS, the President of the Cypriot Judo Federation, for their exceptional efforts in organiSing the event.
They did a great job. Now, I am looking forward to watching the second part of the event as it is expected to showcase a high level of judo.
Mr. Pattichis also reflected on the impressive progress of judo in Cyprus over the past eight years. He proudly mentioned the historic achievement at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where Cypriot judoka Sofia ASVESTA represented the nation, as well as the recent Grand Slam medal success.
We expect this momentum to continue, with more successful results coming under Cyprus in judo. Judo is in a good place in Cyprus, and being a judoka myself, I watch judo from the bottom of my heart, – he expressed.
Looking forward, Mr. Pattichis discussed both short-term and long-term goals for the development of the sport.
First of all, I would like to bring the judo federation in for a meeting to review their plans and schedules so we can find the best ways to support them. Our long-term plan includes developing more Olympic level judoka and achieving higher placements at the Olympics. We are also constantly working on the ‘judo in schools’ project, which is crucial. This method integrates sports with academic lessons in daily school programs, helping talented athletes achieve strong results. Additionally, we focus on organising seminars and host an annual sports week, where judo is always featured to promote the sport.
In closing, Mr. Pattichis extended his gratitude to all the national federations and the European Judo Union, particularly to Dr. Toth Laszlo, the President of the EJU, for their dedication and support in organising the event. His optimism and strategic vision promise a bright future for judo in Cyprus, further solidifying the sport’s growing legacy in the country.
Author: Szandra Szogedi