Wilkomirski: “I am really happy because, year by year, the tournament is getting bigger. I spoke with Ada [Adriana] and Paweł about what the maximum number could be and they said a little more than 200. So, we are already getting close to the maximum number of participants for the current format. Of course, if in the future we have more than 250, I think it is possible to adapt. We are ready.”
When you step away from your role as President and simply watch these judoka on the tatami, what impact does an event like this have on you personally?
Wilkomirski: “This is always a special time for me when I am at an adapted judo tournament. Sometimes, in our own heads, we think, ‘I have pain, I am tired, something is difficult for me.’ Then, when I am at a tournament like this, I see how brave these judoka are. They are the champions for me, and I really mean that. These judoka are very brave and they show us what is best in sport, not only in judo but in sport generally. You have competition but you also have fun and friendship. For me, this is maybe the best part of judo.”
From your experience, what needs to be in place for adapted judo to develop successfully and sustainably?
Wilkomirski: “I think the most important thing is the people. You need people who want to become the pillars of adapted judo. Without coaches who have heart and passion, and without brave parents, I think it is impossible. These judoka often need additional help, sometimes even support simply to get on to the tatami. So, the most important thing is passion from the leaders. If that passion is really strong, then I think the rest becomes easy.”
Numbers can measure the development of the tournament. Twenty clubs can demonstrate the reach of adapted judo across Poland. A growing international field can show the momentum of the wider Get Together movement. Yet, behind every one of those figures are the people Wilkomirski considers essential: passionate coaches, committed parents and, above all, the judoka themselves. For the Polish Judo Association President, they remain the champions. The real heroes.