The inaugural WA Futures Judo Camp, held from the 24-26 November 2023 at the Ern Halliday Recreation Camp in Hillarys, was a resounding success. The camp, organised by Judo WA in collaboration with Judo Australia, brought together young judoka from across the state for an immersive weekend of training, learning, and camaraderie.
An Unforgettable Experience for Aspiring Judokas
Under the expert guidance of Ivica Pavlinic, the current Performance Hub Coach in NSW and one of the Under 18s (Cadets) National Coaches for Judo Australia, the participants experienced high-level coaching and mentorship. Ivica, a former athlete for New Zealand with impressive credentials including four World Championships appearances and two gold medals at the Oceania Championships, led the camp with energy and enthusiasm.
A Dynamic Program
The camp kicked off on Friday afternoon with a welcome address and orientation, setting the tone for the weekend. The schedule was packed with judo training sessions, physical activities, educational lectures, and fun events like movie nights. The training sessions focused on enhancing skills and techniques, while the lectures covered important topics such as goal setting, transitioning from junior to senior levels, and understanding the high-performance pathway.
The athletes also had the opportunity to bond during meal times and free periods, fostering a sense of community and teamwork. The camp’s structure not only aimed at improving the participants’ judo skills but also at building character and instilling values like discipline, respect, and perseverance.
Looking Ahead
The inaugural WA Futures Judo Camp was not just about physical training; it was an investment in the future of judo in Western Australia. By providing young athletes with access to top-tier coaching and a supportive environment, Judo WA aims to nurture the next generation of judo champions.
Jacob Read, CEO of Judo WA, expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in making the camp a success. “This camp has been a fantastic opportunity for our young athletes to learn and grow. We are incredibly thankful to Ivica Pavlinic and Judo Australia for their support, and to all the participants for their hard work and dedication. We look forward to seeing these young judokas continue to develop and achieve great things in the future.”
Final Thoughts
As the camp concluded with parents picking up their children on Sunday afternoon, there was a palpable sense of accomplishment and excitement for what lies ahead. The WA Futures Judo Camp has set a high standard for future events, and Judo WA is committed to continuing this journey of excellence and growth in the years to come.
For more information about upcoming events and programs, visit the Judo WA website or contact us directly. We look forward to welcoming more young judokas to our camps and helping them reach their full potential.
