Judo champion
Year 10 Glen Waverley student Alex Marucchi (pictured in the centre) has been awarded two gold medals for competitive judo in the space of three days. Alex was awarded a gold medal at the Southern Cross Judo Open International Championships, and then two days later, he won gold for Wesley College at the Victorian Schools Judo Championships. This an exciting achievement for Alex who has only recently returned to competing after taking time off to recover from injury.
Alex began learning judo at the age of four and 12 years later he is enjoying it more than ever.
He trains at the Preston Judo Club, dedicating many hours every week towards intensive strength and cardio training, honing his technique and developing his competitive strategy.
Alex says, “In order to manage my sporting and schoolwork, I need to be very organised.” Competing involves a lot of dedication, but the 16-year-old wouldn’t have it any other way. He is enthralled with the fast pace and diversity that the judo offers.
Judo world champion Teddy Riner is the person that Alex looks to for inspiration. He says Riner’s ability to make the sport look effortless is incredible.
Alex hopes to one day travel to Japan, the home of judo. He thinks it would be incredible to compete in the country where the sport originated.
Wesley is delighted that Alex was able to represent the College at the Victorian Schools Judo Championships, and we congratulate him on his fantastic achievements.
