Italy’s U18 Judo Team Heads to Sofia for World Cadet Championships

ROME — Italy’s U18 judo team, the Azzurrini, is ready to make its mark at the upcoming World Cadet Judo Championships in Sofia, Bulgaria. The championships, taking place from August 27 to 31 at the Asics Arena, will see over 550 athletes from 72 nations competing for glory.

“Italy presents itself with the full rose. The team is motivated and ready to get involved, and we are sure that everyone will give their best.”

Meet the Azzurrini

• Matteo Gualandi and Thomas Ghidoni (-55 kg)
• Raffaele Sodano and Giuseppe Gesuele (60 kg)
• Edoardo Michele Russo and Erik Semanjaku (-81 kg)
• Francesco Mazzon and Antonio Capezzuto (-90 kg)
• Gianluca Picchi and Michele Corsica (+90 kg)
• Giada Tursi (-40 kg)
• Ludovica Storione and Aurora Ferro (-44 kg)
• Aurora Montalbano (-48 kg)
• Giulia Bonzano (-52 kg)
• Anita Comba and Rachele Moruzzi (-57 kg)
• Giorgia Grassi (-70 kg)
• Carlotta Schiavon (+70 kg)

Championship Schedule

• Wednesday 27 August: -40 kg, -44 kg, -50 kg, -55 kg
• Thursday 28 August: -48 kg, -52 kg, -60 kg, -66 kg
• Friday 29 August: -57 kg, -63 kg, -73 kg, -81 kg
• Saturday 30 August: -70 kg, +70 kg, -90 kg, +90 kg
• Sunday 31 August: Mixed Teams

The entire event will be available for streaming on judo.tv.

Italy’s Preparation and Expectations

Coach Massimiliano Pasca expressed confidence in his team’s preparation, stating, “Everyone will give their best.” The Azzurrini has been training rigorously, aiming to bring home the tricolor high for Italy.

Did You Know?

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Edoardo Michele Russo and Erik Semanjaku in the -81 kg category. Both have shown impressive performances in recent competitions.

Looking Ahead

The World Cadet Judo Championships serve as the last event of a rich season for Italy’s U18 team. With determination and skill, the Azzurrini is poised to make a strong showing in Sofia.