As the largest judo club in the country, UJZ Mühlviertel is more than a training center—it's a second home. What truly sets this club apart is its community. “We’re a big judo family,” Martin says proudly. “Old and young help each other, and our mission is to make sure every kid has a great time on the mat.” This family-first philosophy runs deep through the club’s DNA, creating a culture where support, respect, and fun go hand in hand with high-performance goals.
UJZ Mühlviertel’s legacy in Austrian judo is rich with proud moments. One of the club’s most iconic achievements came in 1984, when Pepi Reiter brought home an Olympic medal. In more recent years, Daniel Allerstorfer carried the UJZ banner to the Rio 2016 Olympics, adding another chapter to the club’s Olympic journey.
And now, a new star is rising, Sami Gassner, a 2024 Olympic starter, who made history for the club by winning its first European Open gold in Warsaw and claiming its first-ever Grand Slam medal. It’s achievements like these that prove UJZ is not just about tradition but about building the future of judo too.
Despite different coaching styles within the club, the shared goal remains the same: to develop athletes who can shine on the biggest stages like the European Championships, World Championships, and the Olympic Games. That unity was on full display last season when UJZ’s women’s team triumphed in the Austrian Bundesliga. “We won together, and we celebrated together,” says Martin. “That’s the UJZ way.”
UJZ athletes proudly step onto the tatami wearing IPPONGEAR, a partnership built on trust and shared values. “The connection with IPPONGEAR founder Stefan is personal and meaningful, he always has an open ear for us,” Martin notes. The athletes love the Legend 2 judogi, which quickly became a team favorite thanks to its perfect fit and elite quality.
But gear isn’t just about comfort—it’s about identity. “When everyone wears the same equipment, it brings the team closer together,” says Martin. “And when the team feels united, we’re stronger.”
Off the mat, the UJZ crew knows how to have fun. Every summer, they trade judo for football and take on other judo clubs in friendly matches. It’s all about connection, laughter, and building memories. And if you’re looking for the team joker, look no further than Vache Adamyan, who keeps spirits high with his humor and energy—even in high-pressure moments before Bundesliga showdowns.
Looking ahead, the club has its sights set on the upcoming Bundesliga Final Four, one of the season’s biggest highlights. After their exciting debut in a Mixed Team event in France, they’re hoping to return this year to continue making international memories.
As for the next generation? Keep an eye on Ronny Pröll, a promising junior in the -90 kg category. And there’s a wave of strong cadet girls coming up too—but Martin is keeping their names under wraps. “They’ll show you themselves in the next few years.”
At IPPONGEAR, we’re proud to stand alongside UJZ Mühlviertel as they chase big dreams and create unforgettable moments. With their unstoppable team spirit, rich history, and rising stars, the future is looking brighter than ever. Let’s go, UJZ!
