JOY Talks
From Spain, 7th DAN Enrique Eraña on How Welcoming Older Generations to the Tatami Transforms Lives – Including His Mother
In this JOY Talks interview, we explore the journey of Mr. Enrique Eraña and his work on the implementation of the EDJCO project in Spain, which first introduced judo to older practitioners. From this pioneering initiative to engaging younger generations, Eraña has consistently demonstrated how judo can foster physical activity, social connection, and intergenerational learning.
He reflects on the transformative power of judo, both on and off the mat. Based at Gimnasio Wellness 2000 in Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Eraña is a highly respected figure in Spanish judo and an experienced IJF referee with extensive international expertise.
Building on your incredible work with older practitioners, we have to start with congratulations! Last December, you received the Madridoca Award for introducing judo to older generations. How did it feel to be recognised in this way?
Honestly, I did not expect it, which made the award even more special. Since it recognises innovative projects with a strong social and cultural impact, I see it not just as a personal honour but as a collective one.
It is a way to thank everyone who supported the project from the beginning, the participants, IJF, EJU, the Madrid Judo Federation, and above all, my family. Most importantly, this recognition belongs to the seniors themselves, who inspire the project every day.
Have online tools like EDJCO supported your coaching of older practitioners?
The EDJCO online course has been an invaluable tool. It’s a living initiative that highlights judo’s enormous social contribution. For coaches, it provides essential guidance and is becoming increasingly important for the future of inclusive judo training.
How many participants have joined your programme so far, and what progress do they make?
We began with pilot groups in Los Negrales, Villanueva del Pardillo, Alcalá de Henares, and Villaviciosa, later consolidating in Torrejón de Ardoz and Alcalá. Today, our groups include 20-30 participants, which helps maintain motivation and continuity.
The first and most visible outcome is socialisation. Participants feel part of a group, which helps reduce isolation. Physically and mentally, they gain strength, balance, and flexibility, which gives them greater confidence and security in daily life. Judo also teaches them how to fall and get up safely, a crucial skill for preventing injuries. Beyond the physical benefits, judo has provided significant emotional advantages: it reduces stress, boosts self-esteem, and fosters a strong sense of achievement.
Many worry that judo is too rough for seniors. How do you help participants feel safe and confident?
Many participants arrive with concerns, often associating judo with fighting or hard falls. But they soon discover it’s far from aggressive. Instead, they realise it’s an activity that improves both physical and emotional well-being – and it’s fun too!
Their main fears usually involve balance and contact with the ground. We focus on teaching safe movement, how to fall and get up without risk, and gradually building self-confidence. We also introduce self-defence techniques, carefully adapted to their age and abilities, so participants feel empowered rather than intimidated.
Can you share a story that has deeply moved you?
Every participant has their own story, and each one moves me in different ways. After many years teaching judo, working with seniors affects me emotionally even more than other stages of my career. On the tatami, people with very different realities come together: some have never practiced sports, others live with illness or struggle with low confidence. What’s truly wonderful is seeing them support one another.
For example, María, a woman over ninety, was overjoyed to practice judo because it allowed her to share the experience with her grandchildren, who were also training. That intergenerational connection was incredibly special.
If I had to pick one story that moves me the most, it would be that of my mother. After a lifetime in which my siblings, children, and nephews have practiced judo, she herself began at 84 years old. Watching her gain strength, confidence, and a renewed quality of life—overcoming her fear of falling and inactivity—is profoundly motivating. It’s a beautiful example of how the project transforms lives, even within my own family.
How have seniors reacted to training alongside younger generations in JOY?
We’ve already seen very natural intergenerational moments, bringing grandparents, parents, and grandchildren together on the tatami. In the last two seasons, we organised special end-of-year celebrations where older practitioners trained alongside their family members. After practice, there’s a belt and diploma ceremony, a beautiful moment where grandchildren participate enthusiastically and share in their grandparents’ recognition.
We’ve also developed other experiences under the concept of “Family Judo,” where parents and children practise together. All of this highlights the enormous intergenerational value of judo: it’s not just a sport, but a tool to unite generations, share values, and create special bonds.
With your long experience, including as an IJF referee, how has working with older practitioners changed your understanding of judo as a sport and as a tool for personal growth?
This is a very special question for me. Over the years, I have taught judo, competed in both kata and shiai, and refereed internationally. These experiences have given me a broad perspective on the sport.
Working with older practitioners has surprised and moved me profoundly. It has helped me appreciate how great judo truly is, not only as an Olympic sport or martial art, but as a tool with far-reaching possibilities. It has shown me that judo can provide knowledge, culture, and a sense of belonging.
In my classes with seniors, I include simple refereeing concepts: learning what a waza-ari is, what an ippon means, or why the referee calls mate. This allows them not only to train but also to enjoy watching competitions, even following the Olympics while understanding what happens on the tatami. I have even developed a refereeing kata at different levels. The basic version serves as a warm-up and coordination exercise while teaching gestures, scoring, and rules.
Senior practitioners not only practise judo but also contribute greatly to the sport. They help in competitions, with timekeeping, scoreboards, or refereeing support, and feel like active members of the judo community. This project has been truly enriching in combining all of these aspects.
What are the most common misconceptions about older people in judo, and how can projects like JOY help clubs and coaches worldwide rethink age, ability, and inclusion while strengthening intergenerational solidarity?
A common misconception is that older people do not belong on the tatami or that judo is too demanding for them. In reality, seniors gain physical, social, and emotional benefits, while also contributing their experience, consistency, and wisdom to the community.
Both the EDJCO and JOY projects represent an important shift in judo education, proving that judo has no age limits and can be practised, enjoyed, and shared at any stage of life. JOY adds an intergenerational dimension that enriches teaching and practice. I hope coaches worldwide will be inspired to welcome older practitioners, recognising that judo is not only a sport, but a lifelong tool that unites and empowers everyone. Many will also benefit from the online course JOY will offer, helping bring this vision to life in their own dojos.
Your final message for judo coaches?
My message is simple: open your tatami. Invite older generations in. You will not only transform their lives, they will transform yours, and the future of judo.
Together on the tatami, together in life: How Judo became a path of healing, bonding, and empowerment for Ms. Ana Sajko and her daughter
In JOY Talks Interview #4, we step into a deeply personal story from Slovenia, the story of Ms. Ana Sajko and her six-year-old daughter Neja, who shares her mother’s love for judo, from Judo Club Golovec. Ana first walked into the dojo during one of the most difficult chapters of her life. As a survivor of domestic violence, she was searching not only for strength, but for a way to feel safe again – in her body, in her mind, and in the world around her. Through the club’s “Judo for Women” programme, Ana slowly began to rebuild her confidence and reclaim her sense of self.
But the real transformation began when she invited her daughter Neja to join her.
What began as a solitary journey of healing grew into something much greater – a shared experience of trust, joy, and quiet strength. Their story is more than just a tale about sport. It’s a reminder that judo is not only about throws and discipline – it can be a space of belonging, recovery, and the kind of bond that words alone cannot create.
How did your judo journey begin, and how did you experience it together as mother and daughter?
Ana:
I started judo through the Judo for Women programme at our club, created for women like me who had experienced domestic violence or had fewer opportunities. I came with fear and uncertainty, unsure if I even belonged. But already in the first session, I felt something shift. My body moved with strength again, not tension. When I later brought Neja to practice, something truly magical happened. It was as if we found a common language we hadn’t spoken before. Judo became our safe space.
What does it mean for you to train together as a family?
Ana:
It’s our special time. A piece of the week that no one can take away from us.
Sometimes, across the tatami, we just look at each other, and we know. No words needed. In those moments, I’m not just someone healing from trauma. I’m a mother, building a future.
Neja:
I like training with my mom. She shows me some techniques, and sometimes I teach her something too! (laughs) The best part is when we hug after practice. I love that we both enjoy judo, and that my mom helps me and corrects me, and we do it together.
Your story is also one of transformation. How has judo helped you face past trauma or feelings of powerlessness?
Ana:
It’s hard to put into words what it feels like to trust again. First your own body, and then other people. Judo gave me a sense of control over myself, not through force, but through respect, discipline, and softness. Neja felt everything, even when I didn’t say a word. With judo, we both began to release tension. I feel like we’re slowly healing – together.
What message would you like to share with other families or individuals who might be going through difficult times?
Ana:
Even when it feels like there’s no way out, there are places, like this judo club, where you can finally breathe again. Judo isn’t just a sport. It’s a way back to yourself. And when you bring your child with you, it becomes even more. It becomes a healing path for the whole family. To anyone out there who is struggling: Don’t worry about getting it perfect. Just take the first step and keep moving forward.
Neja, why do you love judo? What’s your favorite part of training?
Neja:
Because we jump and roll around! And because my mom trains with me. I even did a real throw once, and everyone clapped! I like our judo coach the most. He’s the best! We play a lot of games and do gymnastics too. It’s really fun.
How do you feel when you’re with your mom at the club? Is there something special you like doing together?
Neja:
I feel good. Actually, I feel rainbow-good! (laughs) Sometimes we’re on the tatami together, and sometimes I train with the other kids. I like it when we train in pair, and at the end of training, my mom always spins me around. After judo class, we go for tea or ice cream. It’s our little tradition.
If you had to explain judo to a friend who’s never tried it, what would you say?
Neja:
It’s fun, and it teaches you how to fall without getting hurt. I have a friend, Alexis, who’s blind, and he trains with me. He’s not special, just different, and he trains a bit differently too. Judo is a martial art, but we also play and do gymnastics. And yes, we fight a little bit too!
Judo Beyond the Tatami – Leadership, Gender Equality, and Lifelong Values with Ms. Kristiina Pekkola
In every judo club, beyond medals and rankings, there are people, young and old, who return to the tatami week after week, driven by something deeper. It’s in these shared moments, between generations and across experiences, that the true power of judo is revealed.
In the third edition of JOY Talks, we speak with Ms. Kristiina Pekkola, Vice President of the European Judo Union (EJU), whose leadership and vision reflect this deeper meaning. She shares insight into intergenerational learning, gender equality in leadership, and the EJU’s strategic direction, while highlighting how the JOY project supports long-term goals for inclusive judo development across Europe. From coaching education to community building, this conversation offers valuable guidance for anyone committed to building a more inclusive and sustainable future for our sport.
How have you experienced intergenerational learning during your judo journey? Could you share a memory that highlights judo’s core values of respect and harmony?
Judo naturally fosters intergenerational learning. Whether it’s a grandparent practicing ukemi (falling techniques) alongside a grandchild, or a seasoned judoka mentoring a young beginner, the dojo becomes a space where age dissolves in mutual respect.
One memory that captures this spirit is a shared kata demonstration, where a young judoka and an older practitioner move together in harmony. In these moments, judo’s core values truly come alive: respect, mutual benefit, and harmony. Judo builds bridges between generations, showing us that learning is lifelong and that everyone, regardless of age, has something meaningful to offer.
In what ways can intergenerational initiatives support the European Judo Union’s vision of judo as a lifelong sport and foster stronger, more connected communities across Europe?
JOY beautifully embodies the EJU’s vision of judo as a lifelong practice. By creating inclusive training environments, it encourages lifelong physical activity and builds social bridges between generations. It also promotes mental well-being through a shared sense of purpose and community. In doing so, JOY strengthens not only judo clubs but also the social fabric of communities across Europe.
As a strong advocate for women’s visibility and leadership in judo, how do you see projects like JOY advancing the EJU’s gender equality goals and encouraging women of all ages to take leadership roles on and off the tatami?
I have long been passionate about promoting women’s visibility and leadership in judo. JOY is all about creating safe and inclusive spaces where women of all ages feel welcome to train and develop. The project highlights female role models, from young girls to older women, who embody courage and leadership. We also encourage female coaches and leaders to take active roles in intergenerational programmes. In doing so, JOY closely aligns with the EJU’s gender equality goals and inspires women to step confidently onto the tatami and into leadership roles.
Why is it important to recognize the everyday heroes of judo – people of all ages training with courage and dedication? How can sharing their stories reshape public perception and attract new generations to the sport?
JOY gently shifts the spotlight away from elite athletes to everyday judoka: children, parents, grandparents, who show up with courage and commitment. These stories humanise the sport, making it more relatable and accessible. They inspire newcomers who might otherwise feel intimidated by competitive judo and reinforce the core values of perseverance, humility, and mutual respect that judo teaches. By celebrating these quiet heroes, JOY helps reshape public perception and attract new generations to our sport.
The project consortium is developing an online educational tool for coaches to enhance training quality and promote inclusive, intergenerational practice. How do you envision this innovation influencing coaching standards and contributing to judo’s growth?
The JOY project is creating an evidence-based online educational tool for coaches that will be hosted on the IJF Academy platform. I see this innovation as a key step in standardizing coaching practices, especially for intergenerational groups. It will improve the quality and safety of training while equipping coaches with the knowledge and skills to foster inclusive, age-diverse dojos. Ultimately, this tool will help make judo more accessible and sustainable across Europe.
With your extensive experience in sport development, what advice would you give to national federations and local clubs aiming to promote inclusive, intergenerational judo? What practical first steps can help overcome challenges such as engaging older practitioners or encouraging more women to participate?
From my experience in sport development, I believe the key is to start small and build gradually. Introducing a weekly intergenerational class or open mat session can be a great first step. It’s also crucial to train coaches properly, and tools like JOY’s educational resources can really help prepare them to work with diverse age groups.
Sharing local success stories is another powerful way to inspire participation and show what’s possible. Partnering with community centres can help reach older adults and families who might not yet be involved in judo. Ultimately, the goal is to create welcoming, flexible environments where everyone feels they belong.
Could you share a personal story from your time with the EJU where judo’s ability to connect generations or empower women deeply inspired you? How has this experience shaped your ongoing work and vision?
Every year at the European Championships, the EJU hosts a “kids camp” that brings together children from all across Europe. It’s truly inspiring to see moments where a grandmother and granddaughter practice side by side, laughing, learning, and growing together. These moments really fuel my passion for inclusive judo and help shape the vision we have at the EJU for a sport that welcomes everyone, regardless of age or background.
Finally, if you could speak directly to women, older adults, and young people across Europe asking themselves, “Is judo really for me?” what heartfelt message would you share?
Judo is not just a sport, it’s a way of life. It welcomes you exactly as you are, at any age and from any background. Whether you’re 7 or 70, judo offers you strength, confidence, and a true sense of community. So step onto the tatami, you belong here!
Shunsuke Mukai: From Tokyo to Rijeka: Teaching the Spirit of Kodokan Judo in Europe
In this second edition of JOY Talks, we explore a unique perspective on intercultural exchange through the lens of judo. Meet Mr Shunsuke Mukai, a 4th DAN judo coach from Tokyo, Japan. At just 29 years old, Mukai has spent the past two years living and working in Croatia with Judo Club Rijeka.
Bringing with him the depth and tradition of Kodokan judo, Mukai has fully immersed himself in the diversity and spirit of European judo culture. This conversation looks at how one coach is building a meaningful bridge between East and West—and how intercultural experiences can profoundly enrich not only coaching methods but also community life.
You grew up with judo in Japan and now coach it in Europe, in Rijeka, Croatia. How does that experience compare?
To begin, I’d like to compare the training environments of judo in Japan and Europe. I’ve been living in Croatia for over two years now, and I’ve noticed that in most European countries, not just here, people typically belong to a single judo club, where they train continuously from childhood through to adulthood.
In contrast, the training system in Japan is quite different. Children up to the age of 12 typically belong to local judo clubs in their town. When they enter junior high school (ages 13–15), they join school-based judo clubs as part of extracurricular activities. These clubs are usually run by schoolteachers. This structure is common across various sports in Japan. High school students (ages 16–18) and university students (ages 19–22) also practice judo as a school activity. Children who want to become stronger often choose to attend schools with strong judo programmes at each of these stages.
After becoming adults, competitive athletes often continue judo while working for companies that support the sport. Some of these companies even have their own dojos. Others keep training at their former schools while working. It’s also common for people to become public servants, like police officers or members of the Self-Defence Forces, and continue practising judo. As you can see, the judo environments in Japan and Europe are very different. However, judo practice in clubs for primary school-aged children is quite similar in both regions.
What do you think about judo as a sport for all ages?
Judo training consists of four core elements: kata (forms), randori (free practice), lectures, and Q&A-style discussions. Ideally, a well-balanced judo programme should incorporate all four. But today, most sessions focus heavily on randori, especially due to the competitive nature of modern judo.
As we grow older, intense randori becomes more difficult, which is why it’s essential to place more emphasis on kata, theory, and discussions. These elements help deepen our understanding of judo. For this reason, I truly believe judo is a lifelong discipline, something you can practise and learn at any age.
In Japan, do children and older people sometimes train together? Is that common?
Not really. In Japan, children and adults usually don’t train together. Their physical ability and comprehension levels are quite different, so the training is adapted accordingly.
That said, there are occasional joint classes, like parent-child judo sessions, which are more relaxed and focus on having fun together. Also, sometimes children and adults will do randori together, but it’s not a regular part of training.
What have you learned here in Europe, as a coach and as a person?
To understand European life and culture more deeply, I’ve explored many things outside of judo. One thing that really stood out is how present religion is in people’s daily lives. In Japan, although we have Shintoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism, most people don’t strongly identify with a specific faith or express it openly. In contrast, many Europeans actively practise a religion, which has helped me understand different value systems more clearly.
Judo itself also varies from country to country, each has its own system, style, and challenges. These differences have taught me a lot, both as a coach and as a person.
What have you brought from Japan to your judo club in Rijeka, Croatia?
Without a doubt, the biggest influence I’ve brought is the authentic Japanese style of judo. I’ve been practising at the Kodokan since I was a child. I still remember the words of Mr. Haruki Uemura, the president of the Kodokan, who often told us: “Follow proper etiquette, grip correctly, and aim for an ippon with techniques that are logical and make sense.”
That, to me, is the true spirit of Kodokan Judo. When I started teaching in Croatia, I was honestly surprised by how different the style was. Many techniques, like ippon-seoi-nage or harai-makikomi, were applied immediately upon contact, often with just one grip. At first, I wasn’t sure how to communicate the Kodokan method, especially with the language barrier. But I trusted in my experience and used gestures, body language, and whatever tools I had to convey it. Even if results don’t show immediately, I believe that learning authentic judo from a Japanese teacher is something that stays with students forever.
Outside of judo, I also try to share Japanese culture, like origami, traditional games, or cooking. These are experiences not easily found in Europe, and I hope they offer something special.
What surprised you the most about the children you teach here?
One surprising thing is how many children don’t clearly distinguish between left- and right-handed grips. Some train with one grip but switch during randori or competition. In Japan, from the start, beginners are taught to choose their dominant grip and stick to it. They may execute techniques to either side, but the grip side stays consistent.
Another thing is that children here often wait for instructions rather than thinking independently. Because they stay in the same club with the same coach for years, they sometimes lack initiative. Listening is important, of course, but I also think it’s essential to encourage creativity, self-reflection, and learning through trial and error.
What surprised you about older judo practitioners or older coaches?
Although I haven’t had many chances to work closely with older coaches, I’ve been deeply inspired by their passion and commitment. Their dedication to judo is impressive.
How do you feel when you see a child training with a parent or grandparent?
It’s truly beautiful. Children bring so much energy and joy, and when they train alongside family members, it becomes a meaningful form of communication. It builds strong relationships across generations. I think judo is an amazing way to connect people, physically and emotionally.
If you could answer in one sentence – why is judo good for all generations?
Because through the principle of “Mutual Welfare and Benefit” (Jita-Kyoei), judo helps people of all ages grow, connect, and contribute to society, together.
Finding JOY on the Tatami with Ms. Licia Maristella, 85
From Rome, Italy, Ms Licia Maristella began her judo journey at Scuola Judo Tomita at the remarkable age of 76. Her inspiring story shows how judo can open new doors at any stage of life, bringing JOY strength, and a deep sense of connection. Discover her experience, the challenges she faced, and the wisdom she has gained both on and off the tatami.
Licia, looking back, how would you describe your life before judo? What characterised the years before you started practising sport?
I’ve always done sport, but I would never have imagined doing judo.
At 76, you did something many people would never dare, you started practising judo. What led you to this decision?
It was a fortunate coincidence. My son called me and invited me to watch my six-year-old grandson’s judo demonstration. I agreed, and that was where it all began. At the end of the demonstration, there was an announcement, they were looking for people aged between 60 and 75 to join a judo course, led by judo instructor Simone Ciaccioni, as part of his PhD research project at the University of Rome “Foro Italico”. My son encouraged me to sign up, but I told him I was already past the age limit. As we were leaving, he spoke directly to the instructor, who kindly agreed to accept me despite my age. And that’s how my completely unexpected judo journey began.
Do you remember your first training session? How did you feel, physically, emotionally, and in relation to others?
I remember feeling uncomfortable during my first training session. We had to practise gripping the judogi in pairs, hugging perfect strangers. But that discomfort quickly disappeared. Everyone was extremely kind and respectful.
What does judo represent for you today? Is it just physical movement, or something deeper?
Practising judo has given me a greater sense of security and self-esteem. Hearing my grandson proudly say, “I’m the only one who has a grandmother who does judo,” and training with young people who say, “I wish my grandparents practised judo too,” is truly motivating. I really enjoy this sport because it’s based on precise and educational behavioural rules.
Many people think it’s too late to start exercising at an advanced age. What would you say to them?
I would say that it’s never too late! There are many levels of judo, and everyone can adapt to their own abilities. As for breakfall techniques, they’re an excellent way to learn how to fall without getting fractures, which is especially important as we age. I’ve actually fallen several times, but my body remembered how to do it safely. Even the brain stays active because you have to memorise all the kata movements and judo techniques perfectly.
In the EDJCO project, a predecessor of the JOY project, you were part of a group that changed how people see ageing through sport. How did you experience it? What did it leave you with?
I’m living proof that practising judo, even at 85, brings both satisfaction and a stronger sense of personal safety, including in terms of self-defence. The judo coaches often say, “If there’s danger, don’t hesitate, run away.” I always reply, “If I can’t run, maybe something I’ve practised in judo will help me.”
You now participate in the new JOY project, where you train alongside younger people. How do you experience this meeting of generations? What do young people mean to you? Do you sometimes feel like a grandmother, a guide, or a friend?
I get a great deal of satisfaction from training with children, and even more so with teenagers. On many occasions, they’ve pointed out small details in my movements, which has helped me refine my techniques and improve their effectiveness.
What do you think you learn from them, and what do you believe you pass on to them? Can you share a moment that surprised or moved you?
As I mentioned earlier, there’s so much to learn from them. What I hope to pass on is the idea that, no matter how many years go by, you can remain active and keep a positive outlook on life.
What do you find most difficult, and most beautiful about judo? Are there moments when you feel tired? What keeps you going?
The most difficult part is remembering all the terms and the movements of the techniques.
Judo kata, on the other hand, are very relaxing for me. I don’t feel tired when I practise judo. What keeps me going is the atmosphere, my training partners are kind, always smiling, and ready to help when needed. And of course, we have excellent judo coaches at Scuola Judo Tomita.
If you could speak to all the elderly people across Europe, what would you say to them?
I would encourage them, “Go and try judo!” It will bring you great satisfaction and can help prevent future fractures, of the neck, limbs, and more. And your grandchildren will have something to proudly tell their friends, “My grandparents do judo.”