For Charlie Weissensee, receiving a medal at the National Judo Championships was a moment she will not forget.

Although she did not get the chance to stand on the podium, Charlie said the achievement still meant a great deal to her.

“I unfortunately did not get to stand on the podium, but when I got the medal I felt amazing.”

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Since starting judo, Charlie has worked hard to develop her skills and has particularly enjoyed learning new techniques.

“I learnt lots of new throws and hold-downs especially.”

Her time at NeoKo Judo has also given her a strong connection with her coaches and the wider dojo community. Charlie said the encouragement she receives from her coaches has played an important role in her development.

“My coaches, they are so motivational when I am on or off the mat, and the committee.”

Her parents have also been an important part of her journey. Charlie credits them with encouraging her to move to NeoKo, a decision she believes helped her improve significantly.

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“My parents, who told me to move to NeoKo, and from there I improved so much.”

For Charlie, the motivation to continue training comes from understanding that there is always something more to learn. Whether she wins or loses, she sees every competition as an opportunity to improve.

“Sometimes I win and lose. Even if I win, there is always room for improvement.”

That mindset is already shaping Charlie’s ambitions for the future. She hopes judo will take her far beyond the local competition scene, allowing her to experience new places while competing at the highest level.

Her dream is “to go all around the world and explore new places and fight for the country.”

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