In our latest interview series, I had the privilege of speaking with Envic Galea, the President of the International Judo Federation Academy. Based in Malta, Galea, an 8th Dan judoka and sports science expert, has overseen the Academy’s growth into a global institution, playing a critical role in educating coaches, referees, and administrators in the world of judo. As judo continues to make headlines — from the recent opening of an Academy branch in Kazakhstan to the return of judo in Abu Dhabi — my interview with Galea shed light on the Academy’s past, present, and future.
Galea spoke of the Academy’s roots, describing it as a long-time dream of IJF President Marius Vizer. “The Academy was launched in 2013,” he explained, “in partnership with the University of Physical Education in Budapest, Hungary, to issue a double certificate from both the IJF and the university.” In 2017, the Academy became a foundation registered in Malta, aligning with the European Qualifications Framework. By 2018, the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority granted the Academy official recognition as a higher education institution, marking a significant step forward.
“The IJF Academy is now authorized to offer higher education programs in coaching and management through digital platforms and internships,” Galea shared. While the Academy can guide students up to the 8th EQF level (PhD), Galea noted that their current focus is on the 6th level (Bachelor’s). Students interested in pursuing a Master’s or PhD are directed to institutions such as the University of Hertfordshire in the UK, where they receive guidance on judo-related research.
DIVERSE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMMES
The IJF Academy’s curriculum is as varied as it is rigorous, offering a wide range of programs tailored to specific judo needs. “We offer specialized courses for judo instructors, coaches, and sports managers,” Galea explained, “including Judo for Schools, Judo for Security Personnel, Self-Defense for Women, Kata for All, and Safe Falling.” These programs are aimed at participants of all ages and skill levels, from children to seniors.
One of the Academy’s most recent milestones is the official recognition of its undergraduate certificate course for Judo Instructors by the IJF. Starting September 2024, all IJF coaches officiating at major international events, including the World Judo Tour, World Championships, and the Olympic Games, will require this certification.
Beyond education, the IJF Academy has also provided consultation services to national judo federations, helping them reorganize and improve their internal structures. “We’ve seen great success with some of our clients, particularly in Georgia and Azerbaijan,” Galea said. These federations have since achieved remarkable success at the Olympic Games and World Championships, further solidifying the Academy’s reputation.
Turning our conversation to judo’s global presence, I asked Galea about the Academy’s role in expanding judo, particularly in Africa and Latin America. His response highlighted the Academy’s commitment to supporting regions where resources may be limited.
“In Africa, we’ve seen tremendous growth thanks to scholarships and partnerships with local federations,” Galea noted. Zambia, in particular, has seen major progress, with Alfred Foloko, an Academy alumnus, now serving as President of the Zambian Olympic Committee. Similarly, the IJF’s Judo for Peace program in South Africa, led by Roberto Orlando, has made a significant impact by supporting refugees and local communities.
In Latin America, the Academy has worked closely with countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Cuba. “In Cuba,” Galae explained, “where internet access is limited, we made arrangements for local institutions to access our online materials and sit for examinations.”
WHAT THE ACADEMY TEACHES
The IJF Academy’s curriculum goes far beyond judo techniques and refereeing rules, offering a comprehensive education in sports science, coaching methodologies, psychology, injury prevention, and more. “We place equal emphasis on theoretical knowledge and practical skills,” Galea said, ensuring that graduates become well-rounded professionals.
The Academy offers three levels of higher education in judo coaching: the Undergraduate Certificate as Judo Instructor (UCJI), the Undergraduate Diploma as Judo Coach (UDJC), and a Bachelor’s degree in Judo Coaching. There is also an Undergraduate Diploma in Judo Management (UDJM), which focuses on the administrative side of the sport.
Inclusivity is a core value at the IJF Academy. Galea emphasized the Academy’s efforts to create opportunities for women and individuals with disabilities. “Our curriculum is adaptable to ensure that all students, regardless of their background or physical abilities, can succeed in judo,” he said. The Academy is also working closely with IBSA Judo, the Paralympic sport for visually impaired athletes, to train coaches and referees.
GLOBAL REACH AND ENROLLMENT
The IJF Academy’s reach is truly global. Courses are offered in over 150 countries, with more than 3,000 participants to date. Enrollment is a streamlined process, with National Judo Federations submitting entries, and students receiving course details through the Academy’s platform.
The Academy’s influence is set to expand even further with collaborations with universities worldwide. “We are signing our first agreement with the Hungarian University of Sports Science in October 2024,” Galea shared, “and more agreements are planned with universities in Azerbaijan, Croatia, Georgia, and Serbia.”
As the interview concluded, it became clear that the IJF Academy’s vision extends far beyond teaching judo techniques. By combining sports science, education, and inclusivity, the Academy is helping to shape the future of judo globally, empowering coaches, referees, and practitioners to make a lasting impact in their communities.
