Author: Ewa Kempka
This weekend, Poland takes centre stage on the European judo calendar, hosting a double bill of EJU events. Alongside the Radom EJU Kata Tournament, Poznań welcomes the next stop on the European Junior Tour, a key fixture that consistently showcases the sport’s emerging talent. Following the impressive showing of Poland’s young athletes at the Warsaw European Open, momentum now shifts firmly towards the next generation, ready to carry that energy forward.
A total of 283 judoka from 21 nations will step onto the tatami in Poznań, with the host nation fielding a strong and ambitious team. Competing on home soil offers more than just familiarity; it presents a genuine opportunity for Polish athletes to collect valuable ranking points and measure themselves against a diverse and highly competitive international field.
European Cup events remain a cornerstone in the development of junior athletes. It is here that experience is forged, resilience tested, and confidence built. Each contest is more than a result; it is a step towards future appearances on the continental and world stage. In Poznań, every exchange, every score, and every decision will contribute to shaping careers still very much in the making.
Poznań has long established itself as a reliable and high-quality host on the European circuit, and expectations are once again high. With national pride, international rivalry and youthful ambition all in play, the stage is set for a weekend rich in intensity and memorable moments.
The Polish team arrives with proven performers already making waves this season. Mateusz Waćko (-100kg) claimed gold at the Sarajevo Junior European Cup, underlining his current form. Sandra Walendzik (-48kg) brings consistency at the highest level, having secured bronze at both the 2025 Cadet World Championships and the Cadet European Championships. Amelia Ptasińska (-70kg) also enters with strong credentials, including victory at this year’s Casablanca Junior African Cup, alongside previous podium finishes on the world and European cadet stage.
“Last year, I finished third at the Junior European Cup in Poznań. It was an important experience but it left me wanting more. This season I return stronger, with a clear goal: to stand on the top step of the podium. Competing at home gives me extra motivation and makes this performance particularly meaningful. I want to show my progress and prove that I am ready to win,” said Waćko, the number two seed in the -100kg category.
There will be particular anticipation surrounding the performances of the home team. For many, this tournament represents a crucial benchmark in their season, offering both a test of current form and a platform to gain essential international experience. The support of the home crowd and familiarity with the environment could prove decisive in tight contests.
“The European Cup in Poznań will be the first major test this year for such a large group of our junior national team athletes. It is an important moment for us to evaluate their current level and progress. We expect a very high standard of competition, as the event will bring together top-level athletes. That is why we are counting on strong performances and valuable results. This tournament is also part of the qualification process for the 2026 championship events, so it plays a significant role in our preparation and long-term goals,” explained Magdalena Korfanty, coach of the Polish junior women’s national team.
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Author: EJU Media