Hattingh-Pridgeon elected into world judo body
Calistus Kolantsho | Monday June 16, 2025 10:54
Hattingh-Pridgeon, who is the current Africa Judo Federation secretary-general, made it into the world judo governing body committee together with Judo Association of Zambia president, Alfred Foloko. Foloko is also the National Olympic Committee of Zambia president. Hattingh-Pridgeon is the governance and strategy director whilst Foloko is the development director. The new executive committee, led by Marius Vizer was elected on Wednesday during the 2025 IJF Congress that was held in Budapest, Hungary. The team is expected to drive the strategic direction of the organisation for the next four years. Vizer stood for re-election unopposed.
Speaking to MmegiSport, Hattingh-Pridgeon said being elected to the IJF executive committee is an honour and deeply humbling moment for her. “Whilst I have always worked with dedication to support and grow the judo community, I never take this outcome for granted. I am sincerely grateful to IJF president, Marius Vizer, for the trust he has placed in me. This role undoubtedly comes with great responsibility, but it is one I embrace with humility and commitment. I look forward to contributing meaningfully to the development and unity of judo worldwide, and to serving our global judo family with integrity and purpose,” she said. Hattingh-Pridgeon said being in the IJF executive committee is an historic moment for Botswana, as it marks the first time the country is represented within the international governing body of judo. “I am deeply proud to fly our flag high and to serve as a voice for our country on the global stage. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Vizer on his re-election, and commend him for his tireless dedication to the growth and global reach of our sport,” Hattingh-Pridgeon said.
Meanwhile, the Botswana National Sport Commission board chairperson, Marumo Morule said he was excited about the appointment of Hattingh-Pridgeon into the IJF executive committee. “It is also time that we, as Botswana sport, engage those Batswana who serve at the international sport bodies to benefit from their extensive sport administration expertise. Remember, we also have Daniel Molaodi at the International Volleyball Federation,” Morule said.