On the eve of the divisioning of the Open European Adapted Judo Championships 2025, we sat down with Roberta Chyurlia, Olympic referee and head of referee education for FIJLKAM (Italian Judo Federation). Passionate about continuous learning and development, Roberta encouraged local referees to attend the event to learn, experience, and grow through this unique competition.
“When we knew that the championship would take place in Italy, we were very happy,” Roberta began. “Because this is another part of our sport. It’s a continuous learning process, so we need to learn. Especially for the younger referees, this is a really valuable experience. They can experience an international atmosphere, speak English, meet colleagues from abroad… it’s all very important. Above all, we have the chance to ‘touch with our hands’ a new reality. For a judoka, that’s something truly meaningful.”
Before arriving in the venue, Roberta made sure she and her team were ready. “To be honest, I had seen something on the website from previous tournaments,” she explained. “I like to be prepared and to know at least the basics. It’s important for me to understand first, because if I don’t, it’s hard to tell people: ‘Come and join, test this new experience.’ What I saw online was already impressive but being here in person takes it to another level.”
Even for someone who has refereed at the Olympic Games, this was something new. “It’s not so easy,” she admitted. “You have to prepare yourself for a new reality. The rules are based on judo but they are adapted for the judoka with different abilities. That is the most challenging part but if you remember that judo is the same judo for everybody, it becomes simple.”
When asked what she was most looking forward to, Roberta’s answer was clear and heartfelt. “I just want to enjoy judo, because this is judo also. For me, it’s another kind of experience, and I really suggest it to everyone. When I did my first IBSA competition, it was like stepping into another world, and I will never forget it. Now, I wish the same for my colleagues, a new first time.”
Ten referees joined her initiative: two continental and eight national referees. “It wasn’t obligatory,” she clarified. “We made a first selection among those living near this region, our federation supported us, so we didn’t want to create unnecessary expenses. Then we selected some of the youngest referees, to give them this new opportunity to learn. Most of them speak fluent English, so that helps too.”
Preparation was also key. “Of course, we sent all the rules in advance, we even created a WhatsApp group to share documents and discuss them. Everyone has printed copies now. We try to be prepared. We try to be present.”
Roberta’s dedication to education and inclusion shines through in every word. Her approach is about understanding, connecting, and learning from every aspect of the sport. Her message resonates: inclusion is not only about participation, it’s about growing together, as referees, as judoka, and as people.
Images: Carlos Ferreira
Author: Szandra Szogedi