Young judokas triumph at nationals

The 2024 Namibian national judo trials were successfully held at the University of Namibia last weekend, bringing together young judokas from various schools in Windhoek.

The trials were for national selection in preparation for the Region 5 Youth Games in June next year, with 11 visiting countries to be hosted in Namibia.

The Namibian Judo Federation proudly announced the following achievers for their outstanding performances.



Gold medalists:

Jana Mutschler, U19 under-52kg, Deutsche Höhere Privatschule Windhoek

Conor du Plessis, U19 under-50kg, Windhoek Gymnasium Secondary School

Kevin Kroller, U19 under-66kg, Deutsche Höhere Privatschule Windhoek

Linus Stritter, U19 under-60kg, Deutsche Höhere Privatschule Windhoek

Shura Ryvkine, U19 under-81kg, St George's Diocesan School

Seth Mutasa, U19 under-73kg, St George's Diocesan School



Silver medalists:

Helge von Dittfurth, U19 under-60kg, Deutsche Höhere Privatschule Windhoek

Marcelle Basson, U19 under-60kg, Windhoek Gymnasium Secondary School

Lilungwe Kamwi, U19 under-60kg, University of Namibia / Windhoek Judo Club

In addition to the medal performances, the following athletes were recognised with special awards for their outstanding contributions to the competition.

Best Overall Junior Female: Jana Mutschler, Deutsche Höhere Privatschule Windhoek

Best Overall Junior Male: Shura Ryvkine, St George's Diocesan School



Generous support, sponsorship

The Namibian Judo Federation commended the athletes for their impressive performances and for embodying judo's core values of discipline, respect and perseverance.

The NJF president, Keith Bock, said the athletes’ hard work and dedication reflect the sport's bright future in the country.

The event was made possible through generous support and sponsorship from Elvando Fishing Pty Ltd and long-time partner Data Label Printing Enterprise CC.

“We are deeply grateful for their continued commitment to the growth and development of youth judo in Namibia,” Bock said.

He extended sincere thanks to the Namibian Sports Commission (NSC) for their unwavering support and to the University of Namibia for providing an excellent venue for the trials.

“Special recognition goes to the coaches for their dedication to preparing the athletes, and to the parents and guardians for their continuous support.

“As the Namibian Judo Federation continues to promote judo at the grassroots level, we look forward to seeing these young athletes excel in future national and international competitions.”