Palestra Magno Youth Judo Squad Secures Podium Sweep at Trofeo Endas Umbria

The youth judo program at Palestra Magno continues to establish itself as a regional powerhouse, returning from the XIII Trofeo “3R Sport”—better known as the Trofeo “Endas Umbria”—with a commanding presence on the podium. The Viterbo-based club saw three of its top young athletes secure medals in the Esordienti A category during the competition held in Massa Martana, Perugia.

For those following the Italian youth circuit, the Esordienti A category represents a critical developmental stage where young athletes transition from basic technique to competitive tactical application. The performance in Massa Martana underscores a period of high momentum for the club’s junior ranks.

Breakdown of the Podium Finishes

The standout performance of the weekend came from Andrea Clemenzi, who claimed first place in the Esordienti A category. Clemenzi’s gold medal serves as a benchmark for the club’s current technical trajectory, demonstrating the ability to maintain composure and execution under tournament pressure.

Joining him on the podium was Filippo Evangelisti, who secured a second-place finish. Evangelisti’s silver medal reinforces the depth of the Palestra Magno roster, proving that the club can produce multiple contenders within the same weight and age brackets.

Rounding out the medal haul was Gabriele Ciorba, who took home the bronze. According to official records from the Croatian Judo Federation, which tracks international and regional results for the category, Ciorba competed in the U13 Male -38kg division. His third-place finish ensures that the club walked away from the Umbrian event with a complete set of medals across the board.

The Coaching Influence: Maria Mechelli

The consistency of these results is largely attributed to the guidance of instructor Maria Mechelli. Under Mechelli’s leadership, the Viterbo club has focused on a blend of rigorous technical drilling and mental preparation, which has clearly translated to success in the field.

In youth judo, the gap between a podium finish and an early exit often comes down to “kuzushi”—the ability to unbalance an opponent. The ability of three different athletes to reach the podium suggests a systemic approach to training at Palestra Magno rather than isolated individual talent.

Note for global readers: In the Italian judo system, “Esordienti” refers to the novice/youth levels, with “A” typically denoting the older bracket within that youth tier, bridging the gap toward the Cadet levels.

Strategic Implications for Palestra Magno

These results are not merely trophy-cabinet additions; they serve as vital data points for the athletes’ development. For Ciorba, Clemenzi, and Evangelisti, competing in the Trofeo Endas Umbria provides the high-stakes experience necessary for progression into national-level competitions.

The club’s ability to compete effectively outside of their home base in Viterbo—traveling to Perugia—demonstrates a readiness to handle the logistical and psychological stresses of away tournaments. This adaptability is often the deciding factor when athletes move toward higher-tier regional championships.

As the season progresses, the focus for the Palestra Magno squad will likely shift toward refining the specific weaknesses exposed during these bouts. With a gold, silver, and bronze already in hand, the club enters its next phase of training with significant confidence and a validated blueprint for success.

The club’s next milestones will involve upcoming regional qualifiers and local exhibitions designed to keep the athletes sharp. For the latest updates on Palestra Magno’s competitive schedule and results, follow official regional judo federation announcements.

What do you think of the rise of Viterbo’s youth judo scene? Let us know in the comments below.