In Colombia, judo has gone beyond the boundaries of sport to become a tool for social and educational transformation. Through the Escuelas Deportivas Integrales de Judo -EDI- programme, the Colombian Judo Federation -FECOLJUDO- introduces the discipline into schools nationwide, instilling values of self-control, respect and fraternity from childhood. This approach connects directly with the international philosophy of Judo for Peace, also visible at high-level competitions.
The OTP Group Sofia World Championships Cadets 2025, organised by the International Judo Federation -IJF-, will take place from 27 to 31 August in Bulgaria, bringing together judoka from around the globe. For FECOLJUDO, school-based dojos are a crucial starting point, while for the young athletes heading to Sofia, the event represents a gateway to international competition and a bridge towards senior-level tournaments of the IJF.
Judo for Peace: protection and development
The implementation of the Judo in Schools project, linked to Judo for Peace, aims to strengthen small dojos within educational institutions. These venues provide a safe and constructive alternative for free time, while promoting teamwork, mental discipline and personal growth.
A significant share of the regions benefiting from these initiatives face vulnerable circumstances, where exposure to domestic violence, drug use or pressure from criminal groups is frequent. In such contexts, judo serves as both a protective and educational pathway, aligned with similar experiences developed worldwide.
Resources and needs of local dojos
The leagues, clubs and organisations promoting these initiatives in Colombia often operate with limited resources, restricting the scope of their activities. Frequently, they must work in inadequate facilities and with insufficient sports equipment.
Support in essential areas such as coach training and the provision of tatami, judogi and motor skills equipment would help consolidate these spaces. This would ensure safe and regular practice, while opening competitive opportunities for those showing higher potential.
International references and the impact in Sofia
The cadet championships in Sofia have a strong legacy. Judoka such as Hifumi Abe competed here without reaching the podium in their early years, while others like Uzbekistan’s Diyora Keldiyorova, Slovenia’s Andreja Leski or Georgia’s Lasha Bekauri claimed cadet world titles before becoming Olympic champions in Paris or Tokyo.
Other names including Zelym Kotsoiev, Alice Bellandi and Teddy Riner also began their international journey at cadet level, confirming the role of this tournament as a platform for emerging generations. In 2025, 560 athletes from 72 nations will gather in Sofia, where the first pages of future careers will be written.
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