Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union reviews progress, charts course for future

The Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union (JJAU) convened on Friday to strategise and outline plans for the sport’s development in the future, with a primary focus on fostering growth and expanding its reach.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the eighth Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship being held in Abu Dhabi and was attended by members of the board of the union and officials from the Jiu-Jitsu International Federation.

The agenda for the 2024 General Assembly of the federation, which is scheduled for Saturday, was ratified and approved during the meeting. Discussions also reviewed the successes of the latest Asian Jiu-Jitsu Championship and explored further continental and international championships throughout Asia.

The meeting also highlighted the sport’s accelerated growth and significant achievements in the Asian continent in recent years, notably demonstrated by the impressive performance and participation at the Hangzhou Asian Games which reflect the sport’s rising popularity and its growing impact across the continent.

Following the meeting, Panagiotis Theodoropoulos, President of the Jiu-Jitsu International Federation, highlighted the enthusiastic participation and dedication of the members and their commitment to advancing the sport in their respective regions.

“We are delighted to review the substantial progress that Jiu-Jitsu has made in Asia and to discuss numerous future initiatives.  It’s evident that when individuals are driven by a passion to excel, there are no limits to what can be achieved,” he added.

Theodoropoulos also expressed gratitude to the UAE for hosting both the championship and the board meeting, acknowledging its invaluable role in promoting the sport across Asia and beyond.

Fahad Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union, added, “The board meeting was fruitful, covering various aspects relevant to the sport of jiu-jitsu. We have laid out comprehensive plans for the next year and beyond, reviewed past achievements, and deliberated on strategies to propel the sport even further. Members of the board expressed satisfaction with the progress made thus far and reiterated commitment to carrying out the dedicated efforts in taking the sport to greater heights.”

Elsewhere, Rakan Alfehaid, Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said, “The meeting was productive, detailing future plans and agendas, and there is a strong sense of excitement among participants for what future holds.”

Alfehaid also emphasised the substantial rise in jiu-jitsu practitioners in Saudi Arabia, pointing out the growing number of individuals engaging in the sport and the proliferation of clubs and academies throughout the kingdom.

“Although we are still focusing on developing and promoting the sport, our national team is one of the largest this year in terms of participant numbers. Our athletes have put in tremendous effort in preparation, and we aim for strong results. I wish them all the best.” Alfehaid added.