MARRAKECH, MORROCO, OCTOBER 16-20, 2019 – USA Judo Junior World Championships
SBG Judo’s Stella Davison joined the USA Judo Team to compete in the Junior World Championships in Marrakech, Morocco. The world-class event held 517 of the best junior competitors from over 80 countries.
“Junior world championships is a big step in the right direction,” SBG Judo Coach Sean Saadi said. “Many former Junior medalists go on to become Senior World and Olympic medalists.”
Davison had 3 weeks to prepare for the competition after making a full recovery from an injury she sustained at USA Senior Nationals in June. “I went from doing no Judo to preparing for Junior Worlds,” Davison said. However, this did not slow her down from competing in her 1st international competition. “For 3 weeks notice, I didn’t have a doubt in my mind.”
That confidence will serve Davison in future tournaments. Her next step is to compete in tournaments nationally as a member of Team USA to qualify for Judo Worlds and Pan Ams. “She will need to compete and win at several national events every year to retain her spot on the Junior Team,” Saadi added.
“She has 3 more years to compete and gain international experience at the Junior level. This is critical since the Senior divisions are yet another step up.”
Because of Saadi’s coaching, Davison stepped into Team USA well-prepared to compete at a high-level. “I hope Coach Sean feels reassured in the training he’s put me through and in his methods because they are similar to the coaches on Team USA.”
Davison lost her first match to bronze medal winner Jisu Kim of South Korea. Despite the outcome, she remains focused on her future in Judo. “Stella has a long career ahead that could include the Olympics, and it all starts with getting on the international competition mats.”
For more information about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Yoga, Fitness, and Kids Programs, call 406-752-7244, email at info@sbgmontana.com, or visit the website at www.sbgmontana.com.
