23rd Mario Zebić Memorial Tournament Sets Latest Benchmark with 759 Competitors in Kaštela
KAŠTELA, Croatia — April 28, 2026
The 23rd Mario Zebić Memorial Tournament didn’t just honor its namesake this weekend—it rewrote the record books. Organized by Judo Klub Dalmacijacement and held in the coastal city of Kaštela, the event drew 759 competitors from 49 clubs across seven countries, making it one of the largest judo tournaments ever staged in Croatia. For a sport often measured in precision rather than scale, the numbers share a story of growth, community, and the rising tide of youth judo in Europe.
A Tournament That Grew Beyond Its Tatami
The Sokolana sports hall in Kaštel Sućurac buzzed with activity from dawn until dusk on Saturday, April 26, as athletes aged 10 to 18 (U10 to U18 categories) took to the mats. The tournament, a staple in Croatia’s judo calendar since its inception in 2003, has long been a proving ground for young talent. But this year’s edition—bolstered by a 100-competitor increase over 2025—transformed it into something more: a regional showcase with international flair.
“We knew the interest was there, but the response this year was overwhelming,” said Josip Barić, one of the lead coaches for Judo Klub Dalmacijacement. Barić, who helped coordinate the event alongside a team of club trainers, didn’t mince words about the stakes. “This isn’t just about medals. It’s about giving these kids a stage to test themselves against the best in the region—and beyond.”
The participating countries—Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Italy, Kosovo, Ukraine, and Georgia—reflect the tournament’s expanding footprint. For many athletes, especially those from smaller clubs, the Mario Zebić Memorial offers a rare opportunity to compete outside their home countries without the pressure of elite championships. “It’s a bridge,” said a coach from a Slovenian delegation, who requested anonymity to speak candidly. “The level here is competitive but accessible. That’s why we keep coming back.”
Dalmacijacement’s Dominance on Display
While the tournament celebrated inclusivity, it was also a chance for the host club to flex its muscles. Judo Klub Dalmacijacement didn’t just organize the event—they won it. The club’s athletes secured a staggering 63 medals: 16 gold, 10 silver, and 37 bronze, propelling them to the top of the team standings. Their success wasn’t limited to the podium, either. The club’s U12 boys’ team claimed the team trophy for second place, a testament to the depth of their youth program.
Standout performances included:
- Ivan Politeo (1st place, gold)
- Marta Bandić (2nd place, silver)
- Gabriel Željko Kapitanović (2nd place, silver)
- Roko Kraljević (2nd place, silver)
- Chiara Blažević (3rd place, bronze)
- Ante Čavka (3rd place, bronze)
The results underscore the club’s investment in its youth pipeline. Last December, Dalmacijacement made headlines by signing Yuji Aida, a Japanese coach, to a three-year contract through the end of the current Olympic cycle. Aida’s influence was evident in the technical precision of the club’s athletes, particularly in their ne-waza (groundwork) and transition attacks. “We’re seeing a shift,” said a longtime observer of Croatian judo. “The Japanese approach—emphasis on fundamentals, repetition, and mental discipline—is starting to pay off.”
Why This Tournament Matters Beyond Medals
For a sport often overshadowed by football or basketball in Croatia, the Mario Zebić Memorial Tournament serves as a vital incubator for talent. The event’s namesake, Mario Zebić, was a beloved figure in Croatian judo whose legacy is tied to grassroots development. By keeping the tournament free of entry fees and open to all skill levels, the organizers ensure that judo remains accessible to children who might otherwise never step onto a tatami.
The tournament’s growth also reflects broader trends in European judo. With the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics on the horizon, clubs across the continent are ramping up their youth programs. Events like this one offer a low-stakes environment for scouts and national federations to identify emerging talent. “We had representatives from the Croatian Judo Federation here,” Barić confirmed. “They’re always looking for the next generation.”
For the athletes, the benefits extend beyond competition. Many of the participants are first-time travelers, and the tournament doubles as a cultural exchange. “The kids from Ukraine and Georgia were staying with local families,” said a volunteer from Kaštela. “At the end of the day, they weren’t just opponents—they were friends.”
The Logistics of a Record-Breaking Event
Organizing a tournament of this scale is no small feat. The Sokolana sports hall, typically used for local basketball and handball, was transformed into a judo hub with 12 competition mats running simultaneously. Volunteers from the club and the City of Kaštela—which co-sponsored the event—managed everything from registration to refereeing, while medical staff stood by to handle the inevitable bumps and bruises.
The tournament’s structure was designed to keep the action flowing. Competitions began at 9:00 AM local time (07:00 UTC) and continued until the final matches concluded around 8:00 PM. Weight classes were divided into morning and afternoon sessions to prevent bottlenecks, and a live scoring system kept spectators updated in real time. “We learned a lot from last year,” Barić admitted. “This time, we had a better handle on scheduling and crowd control.”
What’s Next for Dalmacijacement and Croatian Judo
With the 23rd Mario Zebić Memorial Tournament in the books, attention turns to the rest of the 2026 season. Judo Klub Dalmacijacement has already set its sights on the Croatian National Championships in June, where its senior team will look to build on its recent success. The club’s U18 squad, fresh off its strong showing in Kaštela, is also eyeing the European Judo Union’s Cadet Cup later this year.
For the tournament itself, the bar has been set high. “Next year, we seek to break 800 competitors,” Barić said with a grin. “And maybe add a few more countries to the mix.” Given the trajectory of the past three years, it’s a goal that feels within reach.
Key Takeaways from the 23rd Mario Zebić Memorial Tournament
- Record Participation: 759 competitors from 49 clubs across seven countries, a 100-athlete increase from 2025.
- Host Club Dominance: Judo Klub Dalmacijacement won 63 medals (16 gold, 10 silver, 37 bronze) and secured first place in the team standings.
- International Flavor: Athletes from Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Italy, Kosovo, Ukraine, and Georgia competed.
- Youth Focus: The tournament featured U10 to U18 categories, with a strong emphasis on grassroots development.
- Japanese Influence: Coach Yuji Aida’s impact was evident in the club’s technical improvements, particularly in groundwork.
- Olympic Pipeline: The event served as a scouting opportunity for national federations ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
How to Follow the Story
For updates on Judo Klub Dalmacijacement and future tournaments, follow the club’s official channels:
Archysport will continue to cover the club’s progress as it prepares for the Croatian National Championships in June. For real-time results and analysis, follow us on X (Twitter) and Instagram.
What stood out to you about this year’s tournament? Did you attend or have a child competing? Share your thoughts in the comments below or on social media with #MarioZebićMemorial.
