Japanese judo champions to train grassroots athletes

FOUR former world judo champions from Japan are scheduled to conduct a two-give training program for local athletes and coaches in the Judo Coach Dispatch Project over the weekend at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) is launching the program in partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and Philippine Judo Federation, Inc. (PJFI) to foster international sports development and cultural exchange through judo.

The weekend activity will feature lectures and training from Tokyo Judo Federation President and renowned national coach Matagoro Toriumi, former two-time world championship gold medalist Yusuyuki Muneta, silver medalist Megumi Tachimoto, and Tokyo Boys Judo Team head coach Junri Omori.

“We are honored to collaborate with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government on this project. This initiative not only elevates the level of judo in the Philippines but also promotes cultural exchange and camaraderie through the spirit of sportsmanship,” said PSC Chairman Richard Bachmann.

Over 200 athletes and coaches will benefit from the expertise and insights of the Tokyo-based judo coaches, enhancing their skills and fostering a deeper appreciation for the sport.

“This initiative not only strengthens the sporting ties between our two nations but also serves as a testament to the enduring friendship and cooperation that exist between Japan and the Philippines,” Bachmann added.

The PSC previously partnered with the TMG in the Asian Junior Sports Exchange Games, where the Commission sent its junior badminton and table tennis teams to Tokyo in August last year. /