Graulhetois Judo Club Adapts, Thrives After leadership Transition
Graulhet, France – The Graulhetois Judo Club is demonstrating continued strength and adaptability following a recent change in leadership, maintaining its prominent position within the local combat sports community after more than 50 years. Éric Bouschbacher recently assumed the presidency, succeeding long-time leader Philippe Barthès, who now serves as treasurer while remaining actively involved in the club’s operations.
The club, currently boasting 75 members across four categories from beginner “baby judo” to seniors, is navigating fluctuating enrollment numbers while simultaneously expanding its offerings beyond conventional judo. While seeing a slight dip in participation among the youngest age group (6-8 year olds), the club is experiencing significant growth with 9-14 year olds, signaling a robust youth pipeline. This comes as the club also sees increasing popularity in complementary disciplines like ju-jitsu,ne-waza,self-defense,and a particularly prosperous Taïso-training program.
“Today,the club is functioning well,with a great youth pipeline,” notes Christian Amirouche,a club pillar for over four decades who currently serves as secretary,referee,and educator. “However, we are experiencing variations in numbers depending on the category.”
Manuel Decroix,the state-qualified technical director,returned to Graulhet in 2021 to build on the “remarkable work” of his predecessor,Franck Durand. Decroix oversees training alongside Amirouche, and emphasizes the club’s commitment to both competitive success – evidenced by recent regional podium finishes and approximately ten senior black belts – and community engagement through outings and activities.
Though the club’s current competitive level doesn’t match its peak years featuring athletes like Mélik Hammadache and Vincent Mourgues, the Graulhetois Judo Club remains a vital local institution, firmly rooted in its tradition while actively shaping its future on the tatami.
