MJF president delivers speeches in Osaka

Recently, during a bi-annual congress in Osaka, Japan, Yasuhiro Yamashita was elected International Judo Federation (IJF) Education and Coaching Director. He succeeded compatriot Ryoso Nakamura.

Between October 1977 and his retirement in April 1985, Yamashita won no fewer than 203 consecutive bouts. That sequel, during which he was crowned world champion three times, included a gold medal at the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984.

The Japanese, founders of judo, have always occupied this post except for the time when another popular Olympic gold medallist, Anton Geesink, was in charge.

Today, Geesink, of Holland, is an IOC member.

The post of Education and Coaching Director carries a lot of responsibility. The one in charge is responsible for the actual development of the Olympic sport. Besides forming part of the IJF executive committee, the director chairs the Education Commission which includes a representative from all continents.

Europe's delegate in the Education Commission is Envic Galea, president of the Malta Judo Federation (MJF). Galea is also Sports Director of the European Judo Union and chairman of the European Education and Medical commissions.

Although judo originated in Asia, Europe is the strongest continent at present and setting the pace for development.

In Osaka, the IJF also held an international seminar. Galea was present along with MJF financial director Vicky Licari. He was asked to contribute to their seminar twice.

First, he gave the numerous representatives present information on how Europe has developed a strong Cadet Championship, thanks to the various studies over the past six years in Education Seminars, most of which were held in Malta.

Then, in another speech, he explained how in Europe most of the world champions were still actively involved in judo.

Japan also hosted the World Championships at the Osaka Jo-hall. More than 6,000 spectators attended the championships which were spread over four days.

Unfortunately, the MJF was not in a position to finance the costs of a coach and, at least, one athlete to attend the championships, due to lack of sponsorships.

Malta seminars

Meanwhile, this week the MJF will be organising the seventh Education Seminar and third Medical Seminar on behalf of the European Judo Union.

Yamashita will be here on his first official activity on behalf of the IJF.

Today, he will pay a courtesy visit to President Guido de Marco and Minister for Youth and the Arts Jesmond Mugliett. The seminar opens tomorrow and comes to a close on Saturday at the Dolmen Hotel.