Teplice camp brings Clean Sport lessons right next to the tatami for Europe’s cadets

The latest Teplice EJU Cadet Training Camp delivered more than hard randori and technical work. Right alongside the tatami, Europe’s young judoka were invited into an interactive anti-doping education programme that puts integrity at the centre of development. The message from the European Judo Union (EJU) was simple: clean judo starts early, not after medals arrive.

Working closely with the Czech Judo Federation, organisers set up an educational booth where cadets could join short, focused sessions during the camp. The programme was led by Dr Pinelopi Stavrinou, a certified Clean Sport Educator with the International Testing Agency, the EJU Anti-Doping Representative and a member of the Medical Commission.

Rather than relying on lectures, the content was built to feel real and accessible. Open discussion, quizzes and everyday scenarios encouraged athletes to speak up, ask questions and test their understanding. The response was described as strongly positive, with genuine curiosity throughout.

Importantly, the sessions went beyond awareness. Athletes were guided through anti-doping rules, testing procedures, and their own rights and responsibilities. For many cadets it was the first time they saw doping control equipment up close, a reminder that education is most powerful when it happens before pressure and confusion can set in.

Clean sport isn’t a slogan when you can touch the process and understand it.

Under the guidance of Ember Andrea, IJF Anti-Doping Coordinator, and drawing on experience from previous world cadet championships, Dr Stavrinou continues to help push clean sport initiatives across Europe. The EJU says the work will continue at upcoming events, including the European Cadet Championships, as part of a long-term plan for consistent anti-doping education across the continent.

Source: EJU_News