Modena, Italy – The world of judo is mourning the loss of a true legend, Giuliano Gibertoni, a seventh-dan black belt and the visionary founder of the Geesink Team of Modena. Gibertoni passed away at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy that shaped generations of athletes and left an indelible mark on the sport.
Gibertoni’s journey with judo began in 1968 when he established the Geesink Team in the humble basement of the San Faustino church. Over the decades, the dojo evolved, moving to new locations before settling in its current home on Via Giusti in 1989. More than just a training facility, Geesink became a community, a testament to Gibertoni’s profound impact.
Those who knew Gibertoni speak of him with immense admiration, not only for his athletic prowess but for his exceptional character. In the 70s, Master Gibertoni taught judo at the Carducci schools. With his blue minibus, he would pick up children from surrounding villages who had trouble getting to the gym, ensuring they wouldn’t be left to wander the streets or, at the very least, giving them a sense of purpose,
recalls a poignant memory from the Geesink Team. This dedication highlights his commitment to making judo accessible and impactful for all.
Gibertoni’s passion translated into remarkable achievements for the Geesink Team. training sessions, competitions, trophies – in 1983, the Geesink Team even placed third in the overall national team judo championship, trailing only the Police and Carabinieri,
the team remembers. This success was fueled by gibertoni’s ideology of family, sportsmanship, and friendship, values that forged strong bonds and unforgettable experiences for his students.
His dedication to judo and teaching was unparalleled. A recipient of the Star of Sports Merit, Giuliano Gibertoni secured multiple Italian titles and mentored athletes who went on to compete in the Olympics. Beyond the tatami, he was a pioneer in Modena’s fitness scene, introducing disciplines like step aerobics and spinning, showcasing his forward-thinking approach.
The Mayor of Modena, Massimo Mezzetti, paid tribute to Gibertoni on behalf of the city management. Giuliano Gibertoni was always a man of judo. His example, his passion, his determination will remain etched in the history of Modena and Emilian sport,
Mezzetti stated. Gibertoni’s lifelong dedication, spanning over 60 years of practice and 57 years leading Geesink Modena, a club that has produced numerous Italian athletes, underscores his enduring influence.
Gibertoni’s contributions extended to the administrative side of the sport as well.Until 2016, he served as the vice-president of the Emilia Romagna Regional Committee of the italian Judo Federation, further solidifying his role as a key figure in the sport’s development.
Andrea Bortolamasi, the Councilor for Sport for the Municipality of Modena, echoed the mayor’s sentiments.A pioneer in the promotion of sport, especially judo. A story built on commitment, passion, and dedication for the diffusion and promotion of sports practice for everyone,
Bortolamasi recalled.
The funeral home will be open today from 9:30 AM, with the funeral service scheduled for Tuesday at 2:00 PM at the parish of S. Lazzaro. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to the Cardiology department of Baggiovara or to ‘friends of the Heart,’ a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the well-being and development of others.
