Judo Championship: Okinawa’s Youngest Stars Reach for the Nationals
The QAB Shiun Flag High School Judo Championships, held recently, saw intense competition as teams vied for a spot at the prestigious National High School Judo Championship. Two outstanding teams from Okinawa emerged victorious and will now represent their prefecture at the national level later this month.
Team glory for Okinawa Shogaku and Naha Nishi
Okinawa Shogaku, led by captain Hisashi Oki and vice-captain Koga Terukina (who placed runner-up at last fall’s Kyushu Rookie Competition), dominantly defeated Naha Nishi in the men’s team final, winning 4-0 in just 43 seconds. They achieved an impressive 20 consecutive wins in the tournament.
We’ll do our best in the national tournament! Oh!Okinawa Shogaku team members
Individual champion faces adversity
Rei Chinen, a Yokatsu player, won the individual title in the men’s 73kg class. Despite only two members in the martial arts field, Chinen and his first-year teammate Yuma Maetoku practiced tirelessly to achieve greatness.
He’s strong and good at judo… I think he’s a cool senior.Yuma Maetoku
Their journey to nationals
After winning the rookie competition last fall, Chinen showcased exceptional skill and determination throughout the tournament. He won crucial matches, including a semi-final bout secured with ground techniques. In the final, though, he faced a tough opponent, Tessho Shimoji from Oki Nao, and ultimately fell short, losing in overtime.
I was losing to my opponent’s feelings… I used my frustration as springboard… Next time I’ll win!Rei Chinen
On to the nationals!
The individual champions and Okinawa Shogaku, who won the team competition, will now participate in the National High School Judo Championships at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo on March 27. Representing Okinawa, they aim to showcase their skills and make their prefecture proud.
FAQ
- When and where is the National High School Judo Championship?
- It’s on March 27th at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo.
- Which teams from Okinawa are participating?
- The individual champion from Yokatsu and the team champion from Okinawa Shogaku.
- What can fans expect to see at the nationals?
- Intense competition from talented young judokas representing their prefectures, aiming for national glory.
Did you know?
The Nippon Budokan has hosted numerous national and international judo events, including the Olympic and World Championships.
Pro tip
To improve your judo skills, practice with a variety of opponents and seek feedback from experienced coaches.
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