The prestigious Natale Judo Camp in bardonecchia provided a transformative experience for a group of Novara athletes from December 26th too 29th. Organized by Akyiama Settimo and Cr Fijlkam Piemonte, the camp drew over 1,000 judokas from across the globe, including nations like France, Israel, Germany, Switzerland, and Cyprus.[[1]The Novara team, consisting of Simon Vestali, Gabriele Martinone, Simone di Giorgio, Mathieu and Aristid Sempio, and Mattia Manuel Moneta, immersed themselves in intensive training and competition alongside these international peers.
Leading the camp was Christa deguchi, the reigning Paris 2024 Olympic champion and a two-time world champion (2019 and 2023). The camp also featured renowned coaches like Tommy Marcias, 2021 vice world champion and 2019 European champion, and Kyle Reyes, 2022 vice world champion and 2021 Pan American champion. This assembly of judo luminaries offered the Novara athletes invaluable insights and guidance.
This opportunity to train under the watchful eyes of Olympic-caliber experts proved instrumental in refining the Novara athletes’ techniques. For some members of the team, this wasn’t their first encounter with judo greats. Just two months prior, they had the privilege of meeting Alice Bellandi, the Paris 2024 Olympic champion in the 78 kg weight class. These experiences underscore the dedication of the Novara judo program to providing its athletes with unparalleled learning opportunities.
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A Judo journey to excellence: An Interview with Tommy Marcias
Welcome back,judo enthusiasts! Today,we have a true judo luminary gracing our virtual dojo. Directly from the prestigious Natale Judo Camp in Bardonecchia, please welcome Mr. tommy Marcias, 2021 Vice World Champion and 2019 European Champion. Tommy,thank you so much for joining us
Tommy: The pleasure is all mine. It’s always rewarding to connect with fellow judo enthusiasts and share my experience.
Moderator: You recently led a training camp alongside a stellar lineup of judo greats, including Christa Deguchi, reigning Olympic Champion, and Kyle Reyes, 2022 Vice World Champion. What was it like mentoring these young athletes from Novara alongside such esteemed colleagues?
Tommy: It was an astonishing experience. Watching over 1,000 judokas from various corners of the globe converge at the Natale camp was truly inspiring. Working alongside Christa and Kyle was a privilege. Their dedication and expertise were infectious, and the energy in the dojo was electric. I believe the Novara athletes benefitted immensely from learning under their direct guidance.
Moderator: The article mentions that some of these young athletes had a previous opportunity to train with Alice Bellandi,
your fellow olympian.How crucial is it for young judokas to have access to these
interactions with elite competitors and coaches?
Tommy: Absolutely essential, in my opinion. Witnessing success firsthand is incredibly motivating for these young athletes. Whether it’s learning advanced techniques or just observing the discipline and work ethic of these champions, it instills a powerful desire for improvement.
Moderator: Novara boasts a dedicated judo programme that prioritizes these learning opportunities. do you think this approach gives them a competitive edge,particularly in a sport like judo which demands rigorous training and mental fortitude?
Tommy: I wholeheartedly believe so. Judo isn’t just about physical prowess. Mental strength, strategy, and discipline are equally crucial. Immersing young athletes in a culture that prioritizes continuous learning and interaction with the best is invaluable. Novara’s program is clearly fostering a strong foundation for future champions.
Moderator: Let’s delve a bit deeper into the technical aspects. The article mentions that the novara team honed their techniques during the camp. What particular techniques, in your experience as a world-class competitor, are fundamental for success in judo?
Tommy: Judo is a nuanced and complex sport, constantly evolving.But irrespective of the era, basics remain the foundation. Mastering grips, footwork, timing, and core throws like O-Goshi, Seoi-Nage, and Harai-Goshi are non-negotiable.
Moderator: Now, being a seasoned competitor myself, I know the mental game is equally critical.What advice would you give young judokas to develop the mental fortitude needed to succeed in high-pressure situations like international competitions?
Tommy: Visualization, mental rehearsal, and positive self-talk are essential tools.
Athletes need to train their minds just as rigorously as their bodies. Picture yourself executing techniques flawlessly, overcoming adversity, and achieving victory. Believe in your capabilities, stay focused, and never give up, even when faced with tough opponents.
Moderator: Powerful words of wisdom, Tommy. As we wrap up, what message would you like to impart to our readers, especially aspiring judokas worldwide?
Tommy: Judo, beyond being a sport, instills discipline, resilience, and respect.Embrace the challenges, dedicate yourselves to continuous learning, and never underestimate the power of hard work and unwavering determination.
Thank you, Tommy, for sharing your insights with us. Your passion and dedication to Judo are truly inspiring. now, readers, we’re eager to hear your thoughts! What resonated with you from this interview? Have you been blessed to experience similar training opportunities?
Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going!
