EJU Shares Adapted Judo Framework with Australia

The European Judo Union has brought its adapted judo experience to Australia, sharing a framework developed through years of work across Europe. The programme focused on practical systems designed to make Judo participation meaningful for athletes with different abilities.

The invitation reflected the progress already made in Europe, where adapted judo has developed an established approach to divisioning, competition rules, coaching, education and adapted kata. Australia’s judo community was eager to learn from that experience and explore how those structures can support its own development.

Preparation started before athletes entered the tatami. Entry and disclaimer forms were distributed in advance, alongside guidance on registration, weigh-in procedures and the formation of preliminary pools. These early stages were presented as part of creating an organised and supportive environment for everyone involved.

A major focus was divisioning. Participants examined how divisioning is carried out, why it matters and how it helps create suitable contests for athletes with different abilities. The aim was not simply to organise matches, but to help ensure that each contest has purpose and is appropriate for the judoka taking part.

Meaningful participation remained central throughout the programme.

Education on the EJU adapted judo rules was provided for both athletes and coaches. Adapted kata also formed an important part of the sessions, underlining that the programme extended beyond competition procedures and included technical learning.

Additional support was available for judoka with lower abilities and for those with individual requirements. That approach kept the emphasis firmly on inclusion, ensuring the activities could respond to the needs of the people on the tatami.

For the EJU, the exchange showed how European knowledge in adapted judo can be shared beyond the continent. For the Australian community, it offered practical guidance across the processes that help adapted judo grow in a structured, athlete-focused way.

Source: EJU.net

Image source: EJU / European Judo Union