Mossman teenager to represent Australia in judo championships

LOCAL CHAMPION

Jamie Jansen

Journalist

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Nanami Anderson has been selected to represent Australia in the National Judo Team. Picture: Nanami Anderson

The Mossman community is bursting with pride as 15-year-old judoka Nanami Anderson, who practises at Coral Coast Judo Club, has been chosen to represent Australia in the national judo team at the upcoming championships in Hong Kong.

Overflowing with joy and excitement, Nanami shared her happiness upon receiving the news of her selection.

“When I found out that I made it onto the Judo Australia development team, I couldn't contain my happiness,” she told Newsport. “All the hard work and effort I put into training feels so worthwhile now.”

Her selection is not only a personal achievement but also a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes in her hometown.

“To have the opportunity to represent Australia in the national team while coming from a small town is amazing. I get to go and travel to places to do judo and meet people, it’s a huge adventure and a step forward.”

In just a few weeks, Nanami will be jetting off to Hong Kong, followed by Macau, where she will represent her country in the highly anticipated Asian Cup.

“Being part of the Australian team means I can train with athletes my size, not just from different parts of the country but also from around the world.

“In Australia, there are very few competitors in my division, so I'm excited to challenge myself against a diverse range of opponents.”

Judo journey

Nanami's remarkable journey in the world of judo began at the age of three, as she embraced the sport and grew alongside it. From those early days on the mat, she knew she had found her passion.

“Watching my favourite judo player win gold in the Tokyo Grand Slam and 2020 Tokyo Olympics is something that really motivated me,” she said.

Competing in major tournaments, including national championships, became a regular part of Nanami's journey from the age of 10.

During the pandemic she was able to focus more on her judo skills and fitness and 2021 marked a turning point, as she claimed her first gold medal at the national championships.

Buoyed by her newfound success, Nanami continued to dominate in 2022 and this year, securing gold once again.

“After winning the national championships and QLD international open in 2022 at a cadet level the Australian selectors started to notice me.”

A strong support network

In Nanami's journey through the world of judo, her success is not solely attributed to her own efforts and determination. The unwavering support she receives from her family, coaches, teammates, and friends plays an instrumental role.

“I have incredible friends who not only support me but also join me in the demanding 'making weight' process. I also am fortunate to have a devoted family who gets me to all the competitions.

“I’m also grateful for my coaches who are willing to train with me outside of our regular sessions.

"From the thoughtful gesture of buying me yellow crocs to match my gold medal at the nationals to the availability of training partners who continuously push me to improve my judo skills, it all contributes to my success.

“Advice I would give to young judokas is to keep working hard, even if times or results aren’t good. Just make sure to have fun and surround yourself with good people who support you.”

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