"I had already worked at the European level but this is the first time participating in a world event of this magnitude. It is an IJF selection and I am very proud of it. It is a chance for me to be present at a competition that attracts so many judoka from all over the world.
I do not consider any difference between this and any other competition. The athletes all train very hard to perform at this championship. They are passionate. It is certain that the judo is a little easier to read, clearer and a little less fast than on the World Judo Tour, but the passion for judo is identical. There are fewer tactical schemes also."
When it comes to passion, Nathalie knows what she's talking about. "I started judo at the age of eight. My first teacher was Raymond Rossin, one of the pioneers of judo in France. Today my life is judo and I am a club teacher. I came to refereeing by chance. I needed it to pass my first dan but very quickly, I was interested and above all I was quickly integrated with the team at the local level. Little by little I climbed the ladder from the regional level to the national and now international level.
As a woman, I have always felt well integrated and I believe that it is one of the strengths of judo to give everyone a chance. In our sport and particularly in refereeing we do not differentiate between men and women. I am often asked if I also referee men. My answer is always the same: Of course, in judo it's normal."
This world championship announces a big future event on the Panamerican continent. "It's a very good thing to be here, knowing that in less than four years, the judo family will return for the Olympic Games. We are launching the Olympiad here and I believe that it is a very good thing for the development of judo in the USA.
This is the first time I come to the United States and this city is simply incredible. When we arrive here, we are not disappointed and we have the feeling that everything is possible."
For this clearer, less tactical judo, Nathalie Mellac will be in the front row to observe it and especially to appreciate it. Follow the competitions on JudoTV and on our social networks until 7th November and the kata on 9th and 10th.