One of the main goals of each young judoka is to achieve 1st DAN, that is to achieve proficiency in judo techniques. With the advancement from 1st KYU (highest school grade in judo) to 1st DAN, the judoka earns a black belt, which means that they have learned all the basic judo techniques, Japanese terminology, history, and basic theory of judo. Additionally wearing a black belt signifies a certain maturity of the judoka. They are expected to act in accordance with the principles of judo both on and off tatami and have a positive influence on other people.
When the judoka achieves 1st DAN, they possess enough knowledge to start discovering the deeper technical principles of judo which make techniques more efficient. After finishing their competitive career the judoka can continue in other areas of judo such as refereeing, teaching, learning kata, participating in club or federation committees. By staying active and contributing to the advancement of judo and its values the judoka gradually advances in DAN grade.
DAN grades are universal all over the world:
We proudly present 83 judoka who achieved DAN grades in more than 45 years of judo in Koroška region.
