During the IJF Congress 2025, held on 11 June, several representatives from the European region were entrusted with new responsibilities, stepping into key leadership roles as IJF Executive Members. Among them were Tina Trstenjak and Raul Camacho, both of whom have dedicated years of their lives to judo, as competitors, referees, and now, as decision-makers shaping the future of the sport. A week into their appointments, they sat down together to reflect on their journeys, ambitions, and what this new chapter means to them.
They were first invited to share their reactions upon receiving news of their promotion. Both Tina and Raul described initial surprise, swiftly followed by a profound sense of responsibility and honour.
“I was genuinely surprised,” admitted Raul with a smile. “I had only been a supervisor for one year after stepping away from refereeing on the mat, so moving up so quickly felt overwhelming at first. Honestly, I thought someone was playing a joke on me but once I realised it was real, I was both happy and aware of the great responsibility ahead.”
Tina, too, expressed her gratitude: “It is truly an honour. I didn’t expect this opportunity but I am very happy and deeply thankful. As Raul said, I know it comes with a lot of responsibility, but I feel ready to give my best.”
Both expressed their gratitude for the confidence that IJF President Mr Vizer and the IJF Executive Committee have placed in them. Individually, they bring extensive experience, albeit from distinct backgrounds, which has shaped their perspectives in approaching these new responsibilities. Tina, an Olympic champion, has systematically developed her post-competition career.
“Competing for many years gave me a solid foundation,” she explained. “After retiring as an athlete, I invested a lot in expanding my knowledge, completing refereeing certifications, kata qualifications, and working through the IJF Academy. All these elements combined have helped me prepare for this position but like in sport, you cannot succeed alone; I have had strong support along the way.”
Raul nodded in agreement: “I completely share Tina’s view. My competitive career was at a more modest national level, but I developed internationally through kata and refereeing. The leadership within the referee team welcomed me from the beginning, and I have learned so much from those around me. I am very thankful for that support.”
As new Referee Directors, both have clear ideas about what excellence on the mat entails. “You need more than just a deep understanding of the rules,” Tina emphasised. “Having competed at a high level gives you an extra instinct, that feeling of anticipating what’s coming, recognising subtle moments in a contest. Yet, it is not enough on its own. A top referee needs technical knowledge, constant study, discussions with colleagues, and above all, an open mind. Every piece completes the puzzle.”
Raul echoed this sentiment: “Exactly. Even now, I sometimes catch myself thinking like a referee on the mat, but in this role, I must always verify, always check different angles, even when I am confident. Technology can reveal things our eyes may miss. Discussions and different perspectives are crucial. We are constantly learning.”
Finally, for both Tina and Raul, this new role represents an opportunity to give something back to a sport that has given them so much. “As athletes, we receive so much, from coaches, teams, and the judo community,” Tina explained. “Now, I want to give back. I also hope to inspire other athletes by showing that there are many opportunities within judo beyond competing. Not everyone wants to coach, but there are many roles where people can contribute if they are willing to work for it.”
Raul shared a personal note: “I come from a humble background, a small working-class neighbourhood in Madrid. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I would reach this point. I am extremely grateful and, like Tina, I want to give back as much as I can to this beautiful sport. Our job is simple but essential: to make sure the right winner leaves the mat.”
New European Members of the IJF Executive Board 2025
Author: Szandra Szogedi