Among the competitors, a wide range of skills can be seen and it is clear that some have a great deal of international experience where others do not. Common themes though are commitment, effort, seriousness, for example. All want to win, all give their best and collectively we can see some impressive, emerging technical ability.
The coaches present have a different perspective from the athletes; this is normal, expected. They have a longer term view and a broader range of experience with which to assess planning, selection, preparation etc. Many have fought at a high level, some have not, but all are in Ecuador to facilitate a mixture of performance and learning. Why, to them, is it important for their cadets to be here at the World Championships?
(BRA) - Maria Portela
“It is important because we have had good results in other international competitions and these young athletes deserve it. They are young but they work a lot and it’s a great way to start to their career.”
(CAN) - Ewan Beaton
“These events provide pressure and a different atmosphere and for athletes this young, it can lead to the learning that is needed for the next level.”
(JPN) - Tomohiro Kawakami
“That's a very difficult question but I think luck plays a big role in the Olympic Games which are only held every four years. I think it's wonderful that the world championships are held every year, giving talented athletes chances to be rewarded for their work and performances.”
(KSA) - Marco Rosi
“This world championships gives our young athletes a chance to fight with the elite of their age category, helping them to improve. It’s a way to show they’re going in the right direction. Already our team shows a lot of progress since the last edition.”
(POR) - Joao Neto
“It is at the entrance to the world of an athlete. It’s a starting point leading to the senior international level.”
(RUS) - Tea Donguzashvili
“It’s very important for this age group, giving them additional motivation. At the Olympic Games there is only one champion but here there are many athletes who will have chances to be a world champion. From this starting point, they can finally reach their main results. It is a first step in a much bigger picture.”
(USA) - Eddie Liddie
“We don’t have many opportunities to compete at this level and it’s all part of getting used to international competition. When they get older, they’re not overwhelmed by seeing the Japanese or French ahead of them; it’s become just a normal part of their day.”
Universally, this is seen as an important first step towards the senior level. All coaches are clear that this is not a destination but a single stop on the way to a career in judo. It is development, exposure, familiarity, evidence, belief and a whole lot more. The results are significant but they are not everything.
The competition continues. The big throws keep coming. The cadets are impressing judo fans around the world as well as their coaches. This is a great ‘first’ step!