A group of Western Australian judoka recently attended the 2026 National NextGen Camp, held from 15–18 January 2026 at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in Canberra. The camp is designed for emerging athletes preparing to transition into the Cadet age group and provided an important development opportunity for judoka born in 2011 and 2012.
With only 55 places available nationwide, the NextGen Camp introduces young athletes to the essentials of competitive judo and the key building blocks required for their Cadet years and beyond.
WA athletes in attendance
- Carter Brady (Kano Judo Schools)
- Joshua Coetzee (Perth Judo Club)
- Kayla Nae (SouthWest Judo Academy)
- Zechariah Navea (Perth Judo Club)
- Jack Rigby (UWA Judo Club)
- Nate Stevens (SouthWest Judo Academy)
- Chloe Tournier (UWA Judo Club)
The WA contingent was accompanied by Catia Maia, Judo WA State Coach and Pathways & Performance Committee Chair, supporting athletes throughout the camp experience.
Over three days at the AIS, athletes participated in an integrated program that combined technical development, physical literacy, and athlete education. The program included:
- Judo training sessions focused on key skills for competitive judo
- Fun games and activities to develop physical abilities on and off the mat
- Athlete education on goal setting and performing at your best
- Guidance on transitioning from senior girl/boy to Cadet competition
- An introduction to the Judo Australia High Performance program and pathway expectations
- Insights from athletes who have competed at the highest international level
- A tour of the Australian Institute of Sport
Judo WA congratulates all WA athletes selected to attend and thanks their clubs, coaches, and families for the ongoing support that enables these pathway opportunities.
More information:
Maria Pekli, General Manager of Performance & Pathways
maria.pekli@ausjudo.com.au