Sarajevo Sees Record Numbers In The Capital

The Judo Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina spear-headed the Hopes Tournament and Kodokan Seminar project in 2024 and now we have come full circle, not only inviting U15 judoka, but U13 as well. With this extended invitation, the numbers have grown exponentially, and after the seeing the potential over the course of the year, more and more coaches and parents are excited to have their athletes and children learn from the very best.

Before the tournament begins on Saturday 12th of April, the first Kodokan Seminar took place on Friday evening, inviting all 469 judoka to the tatami. It was an occasion to meet up with friends from last year, to be part of this exciting development project and to have some fun.

President of the European Judo Union, Dr Laszlo TOTH was delighted to see so many faces in the Hotel Hills Arena, ready to soak in the experience with double Olympic bronze medallist, Kodokan expert, NAKAMURA Misato, and European hero, Olympic bronze medallist, Maria CENTRACCHIO.

President Toth warmly welcomed all delegations before the weekend officially began,

One year ago, I had the idea to develop judo with young judoka, and created this Hope Tournament in Europe. For me it is a great please to welcome these top coaches, Nakamura Misato and Maria Centracchio. Last year, it was only U15, and today includes U13 and we wish to continue to give more opportunity. I hope this development programme will help you in the future and allow you to continue enjoying judo.

Now it is time to rest, competition will start on Saturday 12th at 10:00 CEST and will be live streamed on the European Judo YouTube channel. Go to the YouTube channel now and be notified when the streams will begin, not only for competition but also for the Kodokan Seminar!

Author: Thea Cowen

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