The Robben Cup attracts judoka from Germany and the Netherlands. The JKG Norden impresses with strong performances. Judges also use the stage for their tests.
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Norden – The North Judo Fighting Group (JKG) hosted the Robben Cup for the 18th time. For two days there was a lot of activity in the well-prepared Jahnhalle. “The tournament was once again a complete success,” said JKG press spokesman Jenko Gerdes.
After the opening speeches by the first chairman Axel Friederich and the deputy mayor of Norder Hayo Wiebersiek as well as a performance by the JKG Norden dance teens, the competitions began. 254 athletes from three federal states and the Netherlands competed in the four age groups U9 (2018 to 2016) and U13 (2012 to 2015), U11 (2014 to 2017) and U15 (2010 to 2013). Many encounters were at a very high level and there were fights for the coveted medals and certificates as well as the club championship trophies on three competition areas.
On the opening day, VfL Grasdorf took first place in the club rankings, JKG Norden came second and TuS Holtriem third. The next day, Villa Vital Bremen was the most successful, followed by TV Jahn Schneverdingen and the Judo Academy Nord Nederland.
The Northern judoka could be very satisfied with their performance. They fought for a total of three first, eight second and six third places. The hosts couldn’t beat Raik Freydank (U9, up to 21.5 kg), Sophia Koop (U11, up to 26.2 kg) and Lennox Mehmeti (U13, up to 28.5 kg). With Micah Paris, who competes for RW Visbek, another northern woman was ahead in the U13 (up to 36.8 kg).
But it wasn’t just the competitors who were rewarded with success, things also got serious for some judges. During the tournament they completed their practical exam for the next license level. A total of six referees were tested and received their district or district licenses.
