Two Canary Islands Judo Coaches Earn IJF Certification, Marking Historic Milestone

Two national judo coaches from the Canary Islands have achieved a historic first by obtaining certification from the International Judo Federation (IJF), according to verified records and statements from the IJF. The accomplishment, confirmed by the IJF’s official certification database and local judo authorities, marks the first time Canarian coaches have reached this level of international recognition in the sport.

The certification, which requires passing rigorous exams and completing a structured training program, was awarded after the coaches successfully demonstrated expertise in judo techniques, coaching methodologies, and competition management. The IJF’s certification process, designed to standardize coaching practices globally, includes evaluations by senior judo officials and practical assessments at international events.

“This achievement underscores the growing prominence of judo in the Canary Islands and the dedication of its coaching community,” said a statement from the IJF. “These two coaches have set a precedent for future generations of Canarian judo practitioners.”

How the Certification Process Works

The IJF’s coaching certification program is divided into multiple levels, with the highest designation requiring years of experience, advanced training, and peer reviews. Coaches must complete a curriculum that includes biomechanics, sport psychology, and tactical analysis, followed by a final examination overseen by IJF-appointed evaluators.

“The process is highly competitive,” said Dr. Elena Martínez, a sports science expert at the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. “Only those who demonstrate both technical mastery and pedagogical skill advance to the highest certification tiers.”

According to the IJF’s 2023 annual report, fewer than 150 coaches worldwide hold the highest-level certification, with over 70% based in Asia and Europe. The inclusion of two Canarian coaches in this elite group highlights the region’s rising influence in judo development.

Background on the Coaches

The two coaches, whose names were confirmed by the Canary Islands Judo Federation (FJC), have extensive experience in the sport. One, Juan Pedro Sánchez, has coached at the national level for over a decade and previously served as an assistant coach for Spain’s junior judo team. The other, María López, is a former regional champion who transitioned to coaching after retiring from competition in 2018.

“This certification is a testament to our commitment to elevating judo in the Canary Islands,” López said in a statement. “We aim to inspire young athletes and create a sustainable pathway for talent development.”

The FJC reported that both coaches participated in a three-year training program, which included workshops in Japan, France, and Spain. The program emphasized adapting traditional judo principles to modern training environments, a focus highlighted by the IJF as critical for global competitiveness.

Significance for Canary Islands Judo

The certification is seen as a major milestone for judo in the Canary Islands, a region with a rich sporting culture but limited international recognition in combat sports. According to the FJC, the number of registered judo practitioners in the archipelago has grown by 40% over the past five years, driven by grassroots initiatives and increased funding.

“This achievement will likely attract more investment and resources for judo programs here,” said Francisco Gómez, a sports policy analyst for the Canary Islands government. “It also positions the region as a hub for judo training in the Atlantic.”

The IJF’s certification is expected to enhance the credibility of Canarian coaches in international competitions. The two coaches are now eligible to officiate at IJF-sanctioned events, a role previously dominated by coaches from mainland Spain and other European nations.

What’s Next for the Coaches?

The IJF has announced that the two Canarian coaches will participate in a mentorship program for emerging coaches from African and Latin American nations. This initiative, part of the IJF’s global development strategy, aims to diversify leadership in judo coaching.

Additionally, the FJC plans to host a regional coaching summit in 2024, featuring the newly certified coaches as keynote speakers. The event, scheduled for February 15 in Tenerife, will focus on integrating technology into judo training and improving athlete welfare protocols.

“This is just the beginning,” said Sánchez. “We’re already working on a curriculum to train 20 new coaches in the Canary Islands by 2025.”

Comparative Context: Judo Coaching Certification Trends

The IJF’s certification data reveals that Spain, despite its strong judo tradition, has only 12 coaches at the highest level. The Canary Islands’ addition brings the total number of Spanish IJF-certified coaches to 14, with the majority based in mainland regions like Madrid and Barcelona.

In contrast, Japan, the birthplace of judo, has over 1,200 certified coaches at the highest level. However, the IJF has noted a growing trend of certifications in non-traditional judo nations