Novara judo Center: A Year of Triumph and Community
The Novara Judo Center concluded a remarkable year with a flurry of activity, both on and off the tatami.
On December 7th, the Leinì building hosted exams for aspiring judo coaches, with local champion Luca Francia, affectionately known as “mister 98,” successfully earning his qualification. This event marked a significant milestone for the center, highlighting its commitment to nurturing future generations of judo instructors.
The center celebrated the end of the children’s first season with a unique twist: a parent-child judo session. This fun and engaging event allowed parents to experience firsthand the discipline and camaraderie that their children enjoy on a regular basis.
Looking ahead, the competitive team will be showcasing their skills at the prestigious Bardonecchia International stage from December 26th to 29th. Following a brief holiday break, training will resume on January 2nd, gearing up for another exciting year of competition.
Reflecting on 2024, Head Coach Flavio Vestali emphasized the center’s dual focus: social inclusion and competitive excellence. The center has made significant strides in integrating children from diverse backgrounds, fostering a welcoming environment that transcends cultural and ethnic boundaries. This commitment to inclusivity, coupled with the center’s strong ties to the Novara community and its collaborative relationship with the municipality, has created a truly unique and impactful program.The competitive team’s achievements speak for themselves. Throughout the year, they participated in 17 competitions across Italy, securing an impressive haul of 11 gold, 15 silver, and 29 bronze medals. Their remarkable performance in finals, winning 40 out of 60, demonstrates their dedication and skill.
Manager Walter ferrari highlighted the team’s remarkable performance in the Italian junior championships qualifiers, where they emerged as the top club in the region. Furthermore, cadet Simon Vestali achieved a rare feat, winning the prestigious 2nd and 3rd dan black belt grand prize.
as the four-year Olympic cycle concludes, the Novara Judo Center stands as a beacon of success for the city. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the tireless efforts of the coaches, collaborators, managers, athletes, and the families who support them. The center’s unwavering commitment to excellence, both on and off the mat, has solidified its position as a leading force in the judo community.
judo’s Triumph and Community: An Interview wiht Olympic Bronze Medalist,Giulia Quintavalle
The Novara Judo Center has just wrapped up an incredible year,overflowing with achievements both on and off the tatami. To gain a deeper understanding of their success and the significance of this community-driven program, we sat down with Giulia Quintavalle, olympic bronze medalist and prominent figure in the Italian Judo world.
Q: Giulia, the Novara Judo Center has seen remarkable results this year, with the competitive team bringing home a stunning 11 gold, 15 silver, and 29 bronze medals.What do you think contributes to their success?
Giulia: What strikes me most about Novara Judo Center is their holistic approach.Thay’re not just focused on churning out champions. They genuinely care about fostering a love for judo,instilling discipline and respect in their youngest athletes,and building a strong sense of community. This foundation of inclusivity and strong values translates directly into their competitive performances.
Q: The center places a strong emphasis on social inclusion, integrating children from diverse backgrounds. How important is this aspect in the development of young athletes?
Giulia: Absolutely crucial. Judo teaches us about respect, resilience, and empathy. When young athletes train alongside individuals from different walks of life, they learn to appreciate diversity and build connections that transcend cultural and ethnic boundaries. These are invaluable life lessons that extend far beyond the judo mat.
Q: We also see a commitment to nurturing future judo instructors, with Luca Francia recently earning his coaching qualification. How critically important is it to cultivate the next generation of coaches?
Giulia: It’s essential. Experienced coaches are the backbone of any grassroots sporting program. They’re the ones who pass on knowledge, instill values, and inspire young athletes to reach their full potential. Investing in coach development ensures the sustainability of judo as a sport and allows for the growth of future generations.
Q: The center’s success extends beyond competitive achievements. The parent-child judo sessions are a unique initiative. What are your thoughts on this approach?
Giulia: I love it! It’s a fantastic way to involve families and give parents a glimpse into the world of judo. It breaks down barriers,creates shared experiences,and strengthens the bond between parents and their children.it also highlights that judo isn’t just about competition; it’s about building a healthy lifestyle and fostering strong family connections.
Q: Simon Vestali’s accomplishment of winning the prestigious 2nd and 3rd dan black belt grand prize is truly remarkable. what does this achievement signify for a young athlete?
Giulia: It’s a testament to Simon’s dedication, talent, and hard work. Achieving this level of proficiency at a young age is a remarkable feat. It signifies discipline, perseverance, and a deep understanding of judo principles. This achievement will undoubtedly serve as a great motivator for Simon as he continues his journey in judo.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your expectations for the novara Judo Center in the coming years?
Giulia: I firmly believe the future is incredibly shining for Novara Judo Center. Their combination of competitive success, community engagement, and focus on nurturing future generations is a winning formula. They’re setting a high standard for judo clubs and inspiring young athletes across Italy.
What are your thoughts on the Novara Judo Center’s approach? Share your opinions and perspectives in the comments below!
