## Dominican Judo Federation Prepares for Rule Changes
The Dominican Judo Federation (Fedojudo) is ensuring its athletes and officials are fully prepared for the upcoming changes to international judo rules. A recent workshop, attended by 113 participants from 23 judo associations across the Dominican Republic, focused on implementing the new regulations set to be enforced at the judo Grand Slam in Paris this year. [[1]]
The training session, supported by the Ministry of Sports, was lead by a team of experienced judo professionals: Olympic referee Orlando Cruz, Wilkin Ogando, director of coaches, and Manuel Minier, director of refereeing for fedojudo. All three instructors had previously participated in an update course on the new rules organized by the International Judo Federation (IFJ) in Türkiye in December 2024. [[3]]
Edi García, vice president of Fedojudo, emphasized the federation’s commitment to aligning with the IFJ’s updated regulations, stating that this ensures Dominican judo remains competitive on the international stage.
The workshop not only focused on theoretical knowledge but also stressed the practical application of the new rules. Manuel Minier, director of refereeing, highlighted the importance of knowledge transfer and continuous training as key drivers for growth within the sport.
Looking ahead, Wilkin Ogando, the training director, announced a concentration camp scheduled for February 2nd. This camp will focus on familiarizing athletes projected for the Central American and Caribbean Games Santo Domingo 2026 with the new rules.
Following the World Judo Championships in Paris, the Fedojudo will conduct a thorough analysis of the rule changes and their impact on the sport. This evaluation will inform further adjustments and ensure the Dominican judo community remains at the forefront of the sport’s evolution.
Staying Ahead of the Curve: An Interview wiht Judo coach, Yessenia Gonzales
Welcome back to the mat, fight fans! Today, we’re diving deep into the world of international judo with a Dominican coaching legend, yessenia Gonzales. yessenia, welcome to the show!
Yessenia: Thank you so much for having me. Its always a pleasure to chat about the sport I love.
Let’s jump right in. The Dominican Judo Federation (Fedojudo) has been making headlines lately with its proactive approach to the upcoming rule changes in judo. as someone who has dedicated their career to nurturing Dominican talent, how do you view Fedojudo’s efforts?
Yessenia: I’m incredibly impressed. It’s all about adaptation in judo, and Fedojudo is showing true leadership by ensuring our athletes and officials are fully prepared. These rule changes are going to shake things up, and being ahead of the curve will be essential for success on the international stage.
That recent workshop with over 100 participants sounds intense! What are your thoughts on the emphasis placed on practical request alongside the theoretical knowledge?
Yessenia: Absolutely vital. You can study the rulebook until you’re blue in the face, but it’s the practical application that really brings it to life. I’m glad to see Fedojudo focusing on that aspect, especially with experienced professionals like Orlando cruz leading the way.
Orlando Cruz, a true pioneer for Dominican Judo, being at the forefront of these workshops speaks volumes about the quality of instruction.
Yessenia: Absolutely. Orlando’s international experience as an Olympic referee is invaluable. he brings a level of insight and understanding that only comes from competing and officiating at the highest level.
Looking ahead to the Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo in 2026, do you think these rule changes could significantly impact the Dominican team’s performance?
Yessenia: Possibly, yes. We’re talking about major adjustments to techniques and tactics. It’s crucial that our athletes grasp these changes quickly and seamlessly integrate them into their fighting style. That’s why the upcoming concentration camp in Febuary is so crucial.
what do you think is the biggest challenge these rule changes present for Dominican judo athletes?
Yessenia: The psychological aspect. Adapting to new rules can be mentally draining.It requires athletes to challenge their existing instincts and develop new strategies.
That’s a great point. On the flip side, what opportunities do you believe these changes could bring for Dominican judo?
Yessenia: I see this as a chance to redefine Dominican judo on the international stage.We have incredibly talented athletes with a hunger to succeed. Mastering these new rules could give them a meaningful edge and propel them to new heights.
For our readers who might be new to judo, can you elaborate on the type of adjustments athletes will need to make due to these rule changes?
Yessenia: Sure! Without divulging specific details, the emphasis seems to be shifting towards more dynamic throws and submissions. We’re seeing a trend towards rewarding agility and fast decision-making.
fedojudo’s commitment to continuous evaluation and adjustments after the World Judo Championships in Paris is commendable. How important is it for the federation to remain proactive in this constantly evolving landscape of judo?
Yessenia: Absolutely critical. Judo is a dynamic sport, and the rules are consistently reviewed and refined. Fedojudo’s willingness to adapt and learn from every competition will ensure that dominican judo remains competitive and forward-thinking.
a question for our readers: What are your thoughts on these new rule changes in judo? Do you think they will benefit or hinder the sport’s advancement? Share your opinions in the comments below!
