For many of the 500 young judoka, representing 40 countries, this is the first time they have ever shared the tatami with athletes from so many corners of the world. Different styles, different traditions and different approaches to the same sport have come together in a single dojo to create an atmosphere in which every training session becomes an opportunity to learn.
The morning programme was led by two internationally respected competitors, Orkhan Safarov (AZE) and Jeremi Ježek (CZE). Drawing on years of experience at the highest level of international competition, each coach shared not only technical details but also the tactical thinking, movement patterns and decision-making that separate elite athletes from the rest. Every exercise encouraged the participants to look beyond individual techniques and better understand the principles that underpin successful judo.
The afternoon shifted the focus to a demanding randori session. With so many nationalities on the mat, every exchange became a lesson in adaptation. Athletes were challenged to face unfamiliar gripping systems, different rhythms and contrasting tactical approaches, discovering how varied judo can be across the world. This diversity is one of the camp's greatest strengths, preparing young competitors for the realities of international competition, where every opponent brings a different interpretation of the sport.
Learning continued into the evening with a kata session, reminding participants that technical excellence in judo is built on strong foundations. While randori develops timing, adaptability and fighting spirit, kata refines precision, understanding and respect for the principles that define judo. Together, these complementary elements provide a complete learning experience.
What makes the IJF Youth Camp truly exceptional is the richness of its teaching. Throughout the week, world-class specialists, Olympic and world medallists and internationally renowned athletes share not only their knowledge but also their personal vision of judo. Each coach brings a different perspective, shaped by their own culture, competitive experience and technical expertise, giving participants an exceptionally broad understanding of the sport.
Supported by the International Judo Federation and Olympic Solidarity, the camp continues to demonstrate that preparing the next generation of judoka is about far more than physical training. It is about creating an environment where technical progress, tactical development, cultural exchange and lifelong friendships grow together, ensuring that every participant returns home with lessons that will stay with them long after the final randori has ended.
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Images © Julien Christe