Following the conclusion of the 2026 Australian National Championships, nearly 20 members of the Western Australian State Team remained in Queensland to participate in a two-day National Performance Camp organised by Judo Australia.
Held across Monday, 8 and Tuesday, 9 June 2026, the camp brought together athletes from around Australia for four training sessions following three demanding days of national championship competition.
For WA’s athletes, the camp provided an important opportunity to extend their national experience beyond the competition mat. Team members trained alongside many of the interstate rivals they had faced during the championships, creating a valuable environment for shared learning, technical development and high-quality randori.
The four sessions allowed athletes to work with a broad range of training partners, experience different styles of judo and continue building the technical and tactical skills required to compete at the national level.
Training with athletes from across Australia also challenged WA’s judoka to adapt to unfamiliar grips, movement patterns and approaches. This exposure is particularly valuable for developing competitors, who may not regularly have access to such a large and varied pool of high-level training partners in Western Australia.
Despite having already completed a full weekend of competition, the WA group embraced the opportunity to return to the tatami. Their commitment reflected the team’s focus on long-term development and a willingness to learn from every aspect of the national championship experience.
The camp was also an opportunity to strengthen relationships across the Australian judo community. Athletes who had stood on opposite sides of the mat during the championships were able to train together, exchange knowledge and build connections that will continue at future national events.
For the WA State Team, the National Performance Camp formed an important extension of the championships. Rather than returning home immediately after the final contests, the group gained two additional days of training and learning to carry into their preparations for upcoming competitions.
Judo WA congratulates every State Team member who remained for the camp and acknowledges their enthusiasm, resilience and commitment following a demanding three-day championship program.
Judo WA also thanks the State Team coaches and management who continued supporting the athletes throughout the camp.
Finally, Judo WA extends its appreciation to Judo Australia for organising the National Performance Camp and creating an opportunity for athletes from across the country to train, learn and develop together.
