Trie Judo club Triumphs at Lourdes Competition
The Trie judo club celebrated a prosperous outing at the Lourdes judo competition on Saturday, February 12th. Club president Myriam Lacaze expressed immense pride in all the participating judokas, from the youngest beginners to the more experienced athletes, who returned home with a collection of medals.
This competition marked a critically important milestone for some young athletes. Soline Hermelin and Analis Galvez Soto, both representing the “Eveil” and youngest categories respectively, experienced their first taste of competitive judo. Others, like many athletes across the country, were returning to the mat after a two-year hiatus due to pandemic-related restrictions.Lacaze extended her gratitude to the parents who provided unwavering support to the young judokas during this crucial event. She also commended the dedication of Thierry Belin, a long-standing instructor at the club, and Thibault Le Porhiel, who provided coaching throughout the day.
The Trie judo club boasts a rich history, having served the community for over five decades. They offer judo classes for individuals of all ages, starting from four years old, and provide comprehensive training for those aspiring to compete.
This year,training sessions are held on Tuesdays. “Eveil judo” classes run from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., followed by sessions for young judokas from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. For more data, interested individuals can contact Myriam Lacaze at 06.85.32.09.85.
Back on the Mat: A Candid Conversation about Grassroots Judo
Welcome back to the show! This week, we’re diving deep into the world of grassroots judo, spurred by the recent success of the Trie Judo club at the Lourdes competition. To shed light on this inspiring story,we have the pleasure of welcoming Jean-Pierre David,a retired Olympic judo competitor and a prominent figure in youth athletic development. Welcome, Jean-Pierre!
Jean-Pierre: Thanks for having me! It’s always a pleasure to talk about the sport I love.
Moderator: Trie Judo Club’s recent performance at Lourdes is a testament to the dedication of its members and instructors. Myriam Lacaze, the club president, was brimming with pride, particularly emphasizing the achievements of the youngest athletes, some of whom were experiencing their first taste of competitive judo. How significant is that first competition experience for a young judoka, Jean-Pierre?
Jean-Pierre: Absolutely crucial. That first competition is about more than just winning or losing.It’s about stepping onto the mat, facing an opponent, and applying the skills you’ve learned.It builds confidence, teaches them to handle pressure, and instills a sense of sportsmanship.it’s truly a rite of passage.
Moderator: Indeed. The article also mentioned that many athletes were returning to competition after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. That kind of disruption can be challenging. What are some of the difficulties young athletes might face after such a long break, and how can clubs like Trie Judo Club help them overcome those challenges?
Jean-Pierre: The pandemic threw a real curveball at young athletes. Many lost their training routines,their sense of team camaraderie,and the overall rythm of competition. getting back into the swing of things can be tough, both physically and mentally.
Clubs like Trie play a vital role by providing a supportive and structured environment.
They can ease athletes back into training gradually, offer individualized attention, and most importantly, create that sense of community that’s so essential to the judo spirit.
Moderator: We know Trie Judo Club has a long history in the community, offering classes for all ages and levels. That sense of community seems to be a key ingredient. Myriam lacaze emphasized the crucial role of parental support. What’s your take on the importance of parental involvement in youth sports?
Jean-Pierre: Parents are the bedrock of any successful youth sports program. They provide transportation, encouragement, and a listening ear. They help kids stay motivated, celebrate their successes, and navigate any setbacks. It’s a team effort – the coaches, the club, and the families working together to nurture the next generation of judokas.
Moderator: Couldn’t agree more.
As Trie Judo Club looks ahead, having just celebrated 50 years of existence, what advice would you give them as they continue to nurture this passionate community?
Jean-Pierre: Keep doing what you’re doing. Focus on that sense of community, that inclusiveness that makes judo so special. Invest in your coaches, maintain those strong ties with the families, and never lose sight of the joy of the sport itself. Judo is about discipline, respect, and self-enhancement – values that will serve these young athletes throughout their lives.
Moderator: Wise words indeed. Thank you so much for joining us today, Jean-Pierre. Your insights into the world of judo have been invaluable.
We’d love to hear from our readers as well! What are your thoughts on the resurgence of grassroots judo after the pandemic? How critically important is community involvement in youth sports? Share your opinions in the comments below!
