Varese Judo Athletes Gear Up for National Championship Glory
The Italian Under18 Fijlkam Championship is set to take place in Ostia next March, and the province of Varese is poised to make a meaningful impact. The recent regional championships held in Cornaredo saw a remarkable turnout of 150 athletes from across Lombardy, with Varese athletes achieving outstanding results.
Leading the charge are regional champions Sara Stivoni (48kg), Carolina Macchione (52kg), and Giulia Cappellini (63kg), all hailing from Busen Luino. Thay will be joined by Nicolò Assi (Robur et Fides Varese) in the +90kg category and Jason Nicolai (Ken Kyu Kay Somma Lombardo) in the 90kg category.
Adding to the remarkable roster are Kaori Someya, Marco Corò, Simone Dall’Igna, and Vittorio Scorpaniti (Ken Kyu Kai Somma Lombardo), Greta Baudo (judo Gavirate), Riccardo Gambaro (Orizon Olcella), and Paolo D’Angelo (Robur et Fides Varese), who secured qualification through their strong performances. Noemi Pignatiello (Pro Patria Busto arsizio), Mattia pellizzaro, Giulio Molinario, and Giorgia Bergamin (Strength and faith Varese) had already earned their spots in the national finals.
While Letizia Cervi and Tommaso Ferraro (Judo club Legnano),nicola Destefano and Gabriele Brigatti (Busen Luino),Edoardo Sechi (pro Patria Busto A),and Tommaso Parolini (Orizon Olcella) will unluckily miss the national competition,their dedication and commitment are commendable.
The Varese delegation is brimming with talent and determination, ready to make their mark on the national stage. With a strong showing at the regional championships, they are well-positioned to achieve a prestigious result and bring home the glory for Varese.
Varese Judo: A Hotbed of Future Champions?
Welcome back, judo enthusiasts! Today, we have a very special guest joining us: Marco Corò, a former national-level judoka, who now coaches at the prestigious Ken Kyu Kai Somma Lombardo. Marco, thank you so much for joining us today!
Marco: The pleasure is all mine! It’s always great to talk judo, especially when it involves the burgeoning talent coming out of Varese.
Moderator: Absolutely! Speaking of which, the recent regional championships in Cornaredo saw an impressive contingent of Varese athletes qualify for the Italian Under 18 Fijlkam Championship in Ostia next March. What are your thoughts on the performance of these young judokas?
Marco: I was incredibly impressed. Several of these athletes, like sara Stivoni, Carolina Macchione, and Giulia Cappellini, showed extraordinary technique and composure – qualities that are crucial for success at the national level.
Moderator: It’s encouraging to see such promising talent emerging.Do you see any potential future national team members amongst them?
Marco: It’s certainly possible.Giulia’s consistency and fighting spirit remind me of a young Martina Esposito, who went on to become a national champion. Carolina too has the potential, though she needs to work on her explosiveness. And Sara is a real technician, her ippon seoi-nage throws are particularly impressive.
Moderator: Fantastic. Speaking of potential, we have to acknowledge some notable names who, sadly, won’t be making the trip to ostia. letizia Cervi and Tommaso Ferraro, both from Judo Club Legnano, Nicola Destefano and Gabriele Brigatti from Busen Luino, Edoardo Sechi of Pro Patria Busto Arsizio, and Tommaso Parolini from Orizon Olcella are all talented athletes who are just missing out. What message would you give to these judokas who are so close to the national stage but will be watching from the sidelines this time around?
Marco: It’s never easy missing out, but it’s vital to remember that setbacks are a part of the journey. The experience gained at regionals is invaluable, and they should use this as motivation to train harder, refine their skills, and come back stronger next year. This sport is about perseverance, and I have there’s no doubt whatsoever they will bounce back.
Moderator: Well said, Marco. what’s your prediction for Varese’s performance at the nationals?
Marco: I’m optimistic. This team is full of heart and determination. We could be looking at some podium finishes, maybe even a national champion or two. Time will tell, but I believe these young judokas have the potential to make Varese truly proud.
Moderator: Thanks for those insightful comments, marco. We wish all the Varese athletes the best of luck in Ostia!
And to our readers, what are your thoughts? who do you think will shine brightest at the Italian Championships? Let us know in the comments below!
