Bernau, Germany – Stefan Friedrich of JSV Bernau has successfully completed his examination for the 1st Dan black belt in Judo, marking a significant achievement in his martial arts journey. The examination took place recently, demonstrating Friedrich’s dedication and proficiency in the sport.
According to the Brandenburgischer Judo-Verband e.V., Friedrich showcased a strong and focused performance throughout the rigorous testing process. He was supported during the examination by Simone Glenz, who served as his uke – the person performing the techniques to be practiced – providing reliable assistance. The examination commission, comprised of Reinhard Arndt, Mirko Wockatz and René Keil, carefully evaluated Friedrich’s techniques and overall understanding of Judo principles.
Achieving the 1st Dan represents a crucial milestone for any Judo practitioner. It signifies not only technical skill but also a deep commitment to the discipline, perseverance, and a genuine passion for the sport. For those unfamiliar with the Judo ranking system, the Dan grades represent black belt levels, with 1st Dan being the first level of mastery after years of dedicated training and competition.
The Brandenburgischer Judo-Verband e.V. Highlighted that Friedrich’s success is a testament to his hard work, endurance, and enjoyment of Judo. The path to earning a black belt in Judo is demanding, requiring consistent training, physical conditioning, and a thorough understanding of Judo’s philosophical underpinnings.
Beyond Friedrich’s achievement, the Brandenburgischer Judo-Verband e.V. Also announced upcoming deadlines and events. The deadline for applications to the Women’s Regional League is April 30, 2026. The next deadline for nominations for awards is July 31, 2026, for the Honorary Council meeting on August 27, 2026. The organization is also actively engaging with its community on Instagram and Facebook.
The Judo world continues to see activity on multiple fronts. At the Lignano Junior European Cup 2026 in Italy, several athletes competed, including Stefan Popovic of Serbia and Noam Friedrich of Israel. Whereas this Noam Friedrich is a different individual than the recently promoted Stefan Friedrich, it underscores the international scope and competitive nature of the sport. The Lignano Junior European Cup, a key event on the International Judo Federation (IJF) calendar, provides a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and gain valuable experience.
The German Judo Federation (Deutscher Judo-Bund) maintains a directory of Dan-grade members, reflecting the depth of experience and expertise within the German Judo community. This directory serves as a resource for practitioners and enthusiasts alike, highlighting the dedication and commitment of individuals who have reached a high level of proficiency in the sport.
Looking ahead, Judo continues to be a vibrant and growing sport, with opportunities for participation at all levels. For those interested in learning more about Judo or finding a local club, resources are available through national Judo federations and the International Judo Federation. The dedication and success of athletes like Stefan Friedrich serve as an inspiration to aspiring Judoka around the world.
The next confirmed event for the Brandenburgischer Judo-Verband e.V. Is the deadline for Women’s Regional League applications on April 30, 2026. What are your thoughts on Stefan Friedrich’s achievement? Share your comments below.
