JIDP Final Phase – Train the Trainer Programme & International Seminar
Poznań, Poland | 26–27 June 2026
We are proud and honoured to announce the successful completion of the final phase of our Train the Trainer programme. This milestone event marked a significant step forward in the development of adaptive judo coaching across Europe and beyond. Our final face-to-face seminar and workshops, fuelled by the shared passion of coaches, educators, adapted judo athletes, and project partners, represented another pivotal moment for inclusive sport, education, and collaboration.
A total of 98 participants from 15 countries gathered in the historic city of Poznań for the Judo Intellectual Disability Project (JIDP) Final Phase. The energy, commitment, and shared sense of purpose among participants were palpable and truly inspiring.
Day 1: Opening Session, Culture & Meetings – Friday, 26 June
Participants began arriving on Thursday, 25 June, full of excitement and anticipation for the official opening on Friday. Hosted by Special Olympics Europe/Eurasia at the impressive new dojo of Akademia Judo in Poznań, the opening session welcomed over 70 participating trainers from 15 countries, alongside a number of adapted judo athletes from Switzerland.
Lead tutors James Mulroy and Cilia Evenblij set out the agenda for the two days ahead.
The morning session included:
- – An overview of the upcoming practical sessions.
- – An explanation and demonstration of the “Adapting Judo Techniques Workshop.”
- – Execution and demonstration of the workshop by the trainers.
- Review and feedback sessions.
Following introductions and a warm welcome, the morning unfolded in an interactive, hands-on format. It began with a playful group warm-up led by James and Cilia. Participants were then divided into diverse working groups, mixed by nationality, gender, and coaching experience, and assigned specific techniques to adapt. Each group had 30 minutes to modify their given techniques, with a focus on ensuring ease of learning, progression, and above all, safety.
Afternoon Workshop: Meetings and Culture
After an excellent lunch organised by the hosts at a nearby school, the afternoon commenced with a partner meeting to review project progress and outline the next steps for the closing months of the initiative.
Following the meeting, the focus then shifted to culture and fun. All participants were invited on an open-top bus guided tour of the beautiful city of Poznań. The day concluded with an opportunity to sample local cuisine at restaurants in the old town square.
Day 2: Train the Trainer & Masterclass – Saturday, 27 June
Day 2 began with a “Divisioning Workshop for Athletes with Intellectual Disabilities,” which also introduced 20 Polish adapted judo athletes to the session.
The desired outcomes of this workshop were:
- – To understand the rationale, principles, and process of divisioning in judo for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
- – To design and deliver a series of practical games, exercises, and tasks that accurately assess an athlete’s judo ability.
- – To apply this understanding to evaluate and confirm the appropriateness of each athlete’s pre-assigned divisioning pool.
The session started with, A welcome and introduction to the workshop objectives – An overview of divisioning: what it is, why it matters, and how it ensures fair and meaningful competition and An explanation of the key criteria used in divisioning (e.g., technical skill, tactical awareness, physical capacity, and behavioural understanding).
Participants were again split into diverse working groups and given 30 minutes to design and deliver practical assessment tasks. At this stage, the Polish athletes were introduced and fully integrated into the activities.
The morning session concluded with evaluation and feedback, followed by lunch at the local school.
The afternoon was dedicated to a masterclass led by James and Cilia on the introduction, build-up, and adaptation of Uchi Mata for athletes with intellectual disabilities and other life challenges.
Closing Formalities & Looking Ahead
The seminars and workshops drew to a close with the presentation of micro-credential certificates to all who had completed every phase of the two-year programme. Participation certificates were awarded to those attending the sessions in Poznań, and medals were presented to the adapted judo athletes who contributed their time, energy, and invaluable feedback. A large group photo captured the spirit of unity and celebration that defined the entire event.
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who attended, participated, and contributed to this vibrant gathering of inclusion-focused professionals. Your passion continues to drive the evolution of adaptive judo across Europe and beyond.
We now look ahead to future possibilities—ways of promoting and developing our beautiful sport and making it accessible to everyone who wishes to join this wonderful judo family.
Together, we are shaping a more inclusive future for judo.
In the meantime, please enjoy these incredible photos from our event – photos by Leszek Bosak.
