The now familiar format of the ‘EJU Kids Camp’ is becoming more and more popular across the continent, attracting children from a number of countries, keen to learn from judo stars in the masterclass segment, keen to make friends in every segment.
Around 200 children came to meet 3-time world and 3-time European champion Gevrise Emane (FRA) for a technical masterclass on Friday 17th April. Gevrise was supported by local hero Olympic champion Irakli Tsirekidze (GEO). The event took place at the Georgian Judo Federation in Tbilisi.
These are huge stars of the judo world and their reach is broad, inspiring children not only from their respective countries but far beyond. Irakli Tsirekidze said, “I think I have to stay with the kids and share my experience with them, I must. Every time I have the chance to share with them, I do it, I never say no. I want to help them be good athletes and even more importantly good humans.”
To open the days’ training camp, Georgian Judo Federation Vice President Mr Giorgi Atabegashvili welcomed the visiting delegations, the local children and a number of special guests. “We are happy to see you here at our federation. Many of our champions came through this special place and we hope that you will work hard and become a champion too.”
EJU Vice President for Education Kristiina Pekkala then spoke to the children directly, “How many of you love judo and came here to have fun?” The children cheered! “This is the foundation of judo, where we shape the future together.”
Sponsorship Manager for adidas Double D Ms Palma Ferracci added, “I’m very proud to participate in this training camp with you. Remember to have fun as all good things begin with fun. Believe in your dreams! All champions will tell you that this is important from the very beginning.”
Kristiina Pekkala knows that these children are our future teachers, coaches, champions and leaders. Speaking to the EJU media team, she said, “The core values of judo are more important than ever, from good governance to friendship and respect. This is truly about being human.”
After the speeches, Gevrise Emane led an engaging masterclass offering the scores of children present the chance to learn from a champion. This was especially meaningful for the girls, seeing first hand how incredible a career in judo can be for women as well as men. Georgia has worked hard in recent years to develop a strong women’s team, illustrated perfectly by the success of Eteri Liparteliani, Georgias’s first ever female world champion.
Gevrise emphasised that in her role as EJU Education Director, the philosophy behind the EJU Kids Camps is clear and important, “Children are our future and we must take care of them. We use judo to link generations; a tool to embrace the spirit of jita kyoei. Promoting the values must be a task for both individuals, one by one, and organisations.”
Author: Jo Crowley