Originally from Pretoria, South Africa, Janko was present in Nairobi as a referee for his second continental championship. His story is not unique, yet that is precisely what makes it powerful. It mirrors the path of thousands of judoka around the world who discover, through judo, not just a sport but a way of life.
Driven by his passion, Janko chose to focus on refereeing and education. He earned his international referee licence last year in his hometown, receiving it from IJF Head Refereee Director Armen Bagdasarov. That moment left a lasting impression on him, not only for the achievement itself, but for the message that accompanied it.
Mr Bagdasarov emphasised the crucial role of the referee as a central figure who must remain almost invisible, allowing athletes to express themselves fully, while upholding the rules and the spirit of the sport. It is a delicate balance, one that requires integrity, impartiality and constant awareness. “A referee must step back so the athletes can shine,” Janko reflects, “but at the same time, we carry the responsibility of the image of judo.”
Since obtaining his licence, his journey has accelerated. From the African championships in Côte d’Ivoire in 2024 to the World Veterans Championships Paris 2025, and now Nairobi, each experience has strengthened his commitment. The words of Armen Bagdasarov continue to guide him. “I decided I had to be irreproachable,” he says. “I trained to stay fit and healthy because we represent something on the tatami. I paid attention to every detail, including my appearance. I even shaved my beard so closely that people at home barely recognised me!”
Beyond the smile this detail brings, it reflects a deeper commitment. Janko has also chosen to continue his development by following courses with the IJF Academy, ensuring that his technical knowledge matches his dedication on the tatami.
What may seem like small details are, in reality, a reflection of deep professionalism. Choosing the path of refereeing is not always the most visible or celebrated route but it demands discipline, humility and constant learning.
In Nairobi, the experience left a strong impression. “It was truly a great environment, intense but very positive. I learned a lot and will take many ideas back home.”
And back home is where Janko’s impact continues to grow. In Pretoria, he organises ‘Family Referee Days’ at least twice a year, inviting judoka and their parents to learn the rules of the sport. These sessions end with friendly contests officiated by the parents themselves.
“They begin to understand not only the rules, but also how difficult it is to be a referee,” he explains. The initiative creates empathy, strengthens relationships and encourages dialogue; values that are at the heart of judo. Participants from Judo for Peace South Africa have already taken part in these events, where learning and community spirit go hand in hand, reinforcing social bonds beyond the sport.
Janko Strydom stands today as both a judoka and a referee fulfilled by his journey. Focused and determined, he is already looking ahead. “Of course, I would like to become an Olympic referee,” he says. “It requires a lot of work and commitment but I am doing everything I can.”
His story is a reminder that a career in judo does not end with competition. It evolves through teaching, leadership and, for many like Janko, through refereeing; a world of opportunity where passion continues to grow and new paths are always possible.
Janko is also quick to acknowledge those who have supported him along the way, in particular Judo South Africa’s Referee Director Henriette Moller, “She has guided me throughout my journey and given me invaluable advice,” he explains. Together, they even established a list of concrete action points like shaving the beard, improving fitness, obtaining his third dan, completing the IJF Academy UCJI practical course and even, as a light-hearted challenge, learning French to follow discussions and seminars better across Africa. “This part is not successful yet,” he adds with a smile.
It is precisely this mix of rigour, humility and humour that defines his journey and makes it so inspiring.