Chris Hickey attended at his final judo event as a referee. Ireland’s veteran and high classed judo referee gained his B licence in 1999. Following a robust and successful years, in 2005 he earned his A licence, allowing him to referee beyond continental level or what’s today called the IJF World Tour. Humbled, spirited and modest, Mr Hickey refereed his last international contest during the final of the team event at the European Judo Championships Veterans 2023. Due to rules and regulations, it is mandatorily to retire in the same year of your 65th birthday. Ireland top judo referee left with no choice but to bow out. Mr Hickey expressed his emotions before his final show on the mat.
I am sad, but I am also very greatful. You know, the rule is the rule and I am very thankful for EJU for giving me the opportunity first back in 1999, when I got my continental license. I am also thankful for the Irish Judo Federation, becuase without your federation you cannot go forward. I have to praise my wife and family because to commit to get to a level of continental then get to international comes with a lot of travel and it is a lot of time away, so without a good family behind you that understands it is not so easy.
Coming from a small country of Ireland, when I started, I knew it would be difficult but I also knew if I wanted to mix in with the top level, I had to up my game but I have made a conscious decision and invested in myself and in my country.
It’s a lot of mixed emotions, becuase I am still hungry to keep going. If I felt that I did not have the level and it is time to go, I would perhaps take it with less heavy heart but I know I can still keep it up, I still have the hunger and I still love to be on the tatami. I have done everything except seniors worlds and Olympics Games. I was fortunate to referee many of my idol judoka, I also had the privilege to referee on prestigious events such as the Paris Grand Slam, or what they call back in days the super World Cup. I would love to stay involved in any capacity but only time will tell what the future holds. I am energetic with a huge amount of experience and I still feel I have a lot to offer and I am hungry to do it.
On behalf of the European Judo Union, in respect and honour of his long lasting and significant commitment in Refereeing in European and Irish Judo, The President of the European Judo Union, Dr TOTH Laszlo, together with the General Secretary of the Slovenian Judo Federation, Mr. Franc OCKO, rewarded Mr Hickey with the Order of Merit award.
The European Judo Union would like to congratulate Mr Hickey on a wonderful career, whilst wishing well in health, happiness and friendship. Thank you Chris!
Author: Szandra Szogedi