The European Kata Cup, held this weekend in Radom, Poland, brought not only outstanding results for the Slovenian judo national team, but also an inspiring example of cooperation that goes beyond competition itself. The connection between members of the Slovenian kata national team and inclusive judoka showed that judo is a sport that opens its doors to everyone and brings people together regardless of their abilities.

Members of TVD Partizan Jesenice, Kati Ambrožič and Nuša Ambrožič, joined forces with inclusive judoka from Judo Club Sokol, Matej David and Tina Skerlep. In the morning session, Kati and Nuša competed in the senior nage-no-kata event, advanced to the afternoon final, and finished the competition in sixth place. After their performance, they teamed up with Matej and Tina in the adapted nage-no-kata event and contributed to an excellent Slovenian result. For Tina, this was her first appearance at a European Kata Cup.

The Slovenian representatives achieved an exceptional result in adapted nage-no-kata:

1st place: Matej David and Nuša Ambrožič

2nd place: Aljaž Colarič and Tina Pestotnik

3rd place: Tina Skerlep and Kati Ambrožič

This cooperation between TVD Partizan Jesenice and Judo Club Sokol brought not only medals, but also an important message. It represents a strong example of connection in judo, encourages greater inclusion of inclusive judoka in competitions, and opens the way for everyone, regardless of physical ability, to take an active part in our sport.

Such steps strengthen the values of judo, promote inclusion, inspire young people, and encourage broader cooperation within the Slovenian judo community. Radom was therefore not only the venue of successful performances, but also the setting for a story that shows what kind of judo we want to build in the future.

Together, we are building judo for everyone!

Written by: Tina Pestotnik

Photo Credits: Kati Ambrožič