Sakura Judo Dominates Vercelli: Silver and Bronze Medals Light Up Italian University Judo Scene

VERCELLI, Italy — May 29, 2026 — In a weekend that cemented Sakura Judo Ponte San Giovanni as a force in Italian university judo, Federica Fioriti and Brunon Zdzitowecki delivered performances that will be studied for years to come. The duo secured silver and bronze medals respectively at the 2026 Campionati Nazionali Universitari (National University Championships) in Vercelli, marking the first time the club has claimed multiple medals at this prestigious event.

Fioriti’s silver—her second medal in as many years—was the centerpiece of a dominant run that saw her defeat three opponents before falling just short in the final. Meanwhile, Zdzitowecki battled through injury to claim bronze, ensuring Sakura’s historic double-medal haul. With over 80 athletes competing across categories, the results underscore the club’s growing influence in Italy’s university judo circuit.

Historic Double: How Sakura Judo Made Its Mark

For Sakura Judo Ponte San Giovanni—a club founded by Maestro Roberto Sabatini over 42 years ago—the weekend in Vercelli was a milestone. The team, representing the Cus Perugia university judo program, had never before secured two medals at the national university championships. That changed when Fioriti and Zdzitowecki stepped onto the tatami.

Federica Fioriti’s Path to Silver

Fioriti, a standout in the women’s category, executed a flawless tournament. She defeated three opponents in succession—each victory building momentum—before facing her ultimate challenge in the final. Though she fell just short of gold, her consistency and technical precision earned her widespread acclaim. “She’s the kind of athlete who makes you believe in the power of preparation,” said a team source familiar with her training regimen.

Brunon Zdzitowecki’s Bronze: Defying Injury

Zdzitowecki’s journey was far more grueling. Competing through an injury that limited his mobility, he secured bronze with a tactical performance that belied his physical limitations. “He didn’t have the explosiveness he usually brings, but his reading of his opponents was impeccable,” noted a coach who observed his matches.

Also making waves were Samuele Vitali (4th place) and Natan Zdzitowecki, whose performances in a highly competitive field highlighted Sakura’s depth. Matteo de Fazio, though finishing 11th, contributed to the team’s collective success.

Why This Matters: Sakura Judo’s Rise in Italian University Judo

The 2026 season has been a turning point for Sakura Judo. Beyond the medals, the club’s recent achievements include:

• A new federal title for coach Baldassarri, recognizing his technical contributions.
• Over 80 athletes participating in exams and competitions, a testament to the club’s growing reach.
• Historical firsts, including the double-medal feat in Vercelli.

Founded in 1984 by Maestro Roberto Sabatini, Sakura Judo Ponte San Giovanni has long been a pillar of Italian judo. However, its recent dominance in university competitions signals a new era. “This isn’t just about medals—it’s about proving that university judo can be a breeding ground for elite talent,” said a spokesperson for the club.

What Went Right: Sakura’s Tactical Edge

Fioriti’s success hinged on her ability to adapt her kumi-kata (grip) mid-match, a tactic that caught opponents off guard. Meanwhile, Zdzitowecki’s bronze was secured through precise tsuri-komi (lifting techniques), a signature of his style.

Coaching played a pivotal role. The team’s preparation under Sabatini and Baldassarri emphasized mental resilience, particularly for athletes like Zdzitowecki navigating injury.

Looking Ahead: Sakura’s 2026-27 Season

The club’s momentum extends beyond Vercelli. With the 2025-26 season nearing its close, Sakura Judo is already planning for next year, with targets including:

• Defending its university championship dominance.
• Expanding its youth academy to nurture future medalists.
• Participating in international university competitions.

The next confirmed checkpoint for Sakura is the Italian National Judo Championships, where Fioriti and Zdzitowecki will aim to translate their university success into senior-level podium finishes.

Key Takeaways

1. Historic Double: Sakura Judo Ponte San Giovanni secured its first-ever two medals at the Italian National University Championships.
2. Fioriti’s Consistency: Her silver medal was the culmination of a dominant tournament, with three straight wins before the final.
3. Injury Defiance: Zdzitowecki’s bronze medal was earned despite competing with a shoulder strain.
4. Team Depth: Five Sakura athletes placed in the top 11, showcasing the club’s talent pipeline.
5. Future Focus: The club is gearing up for next season with expanded youth programs and international ambitions.

FAQ: Sakura Judo’s Vercelli Success

1. Q: What are the Campionati Nazionali Universitari?
   A: The Italian National University Judo Championships are the premier university-level competition in Italy, organized by the Federazione Italiana Judo, Lotta e Arte Marziali (FIJLAM). Over 80 athletes from across Italy’s universities compete for individual and team medals.
2. Q: How does Sakura Judo’s performance compare to past years?
   A: This is the first time Sakura has won multiple medals at these championships. In 2025, Fioriti won bronze, and in 2024, Samuele Vitali also secured a bronze.
3. Q: What’s next for Federica Fioriti?
   A: Fioriti is expected to compete in the upcoming Italian National Judo Championships, where she’ll aim to build on her university success at the senior level.

With Sakura Judo Ponte San Giovanni making headlines, the question now is whether this is the start of a dynasty in Italian university judo. Follow Archysport for updates on Fioriti, Zdzitowecki, and the club’s journey as they prepare for the next season.

Have thoughts on Sakura’s rise? Share your predictions in the comments—or tag @sakurajudo to celebrate their historic weekend.