The popularity and continuation of the European Judo Hopes Tournament and Technical Sessions with Kodokan experts and European Heroes, is a testament to the judo community, to the parents, clubs and athletes with their desire to learn.
In Kocaeli, Türkiye, they will welcome a European Hero that is tremendously decorated and has been an emblem of this sport for many years. Telma MONTEIRO of Portugal has stood on a European podium 15 times, taken five World medals and an Olympic bronze in Rio de Janeiro.
I am really looking forward to the upcoming weekend because I expect it to be an enriching and fun experience, not only for the kids but for myself too. I deeply believe that teaching is an amazing way for me to learn and understand Judo even better because it makes me “think Judo“.
Following gruelling training for many years, constantly finding the motivation to continue can be difficult, but finding a new love for the sport is always around the corner.
Besides that I love seeing the spark and the motivation in young athletes eyes while they learn and work hard for their dreams. This gives me a lot of good energy.
Such trainings are an amazing opportunity for them to learn a different perspective of Judo and adapt it to what they already know and like to do, while creating good memories and increase their passion for judo. Because this is after all what will make them keep going.
Monteiro will be working alongside NAKAMURA Misato in Kocaeli this weekend, sharing her expertise and extensive knowledge with a young generation who will undoubtedly carry it with them throughout their careers.
Judoka
Author: Thea Cowen