Photo Credit: Micha Neugebauer
Jolina’s judo journey started before most kids even learn to tie their shoes. “I started judo when I was three,” she says. “My dad saw a flyer for tryouts. In my city, judo is really popular. My grandpa did it too, so my dad thought, ‘Why not try?’ And since then, I’m stuck to it.”
That early curiosity quickly turned into something more. “I’m a very athletic person. In judo, you need everything—strength, flexibility, technique. That’s why I like it so much. Also… I really like fighting!” she laughs. (Did we mention she took up boxing at age 10?)
Winning national titles in both the cadet and junior divisions in the same year came as a surprise — even to her. “I never expected it because the juniors are older than me... but it shows that my hard work pays off. I can win against anybody!”
But Jolina’s talents go far beyond the tatami. At just 11 years old, she competed on Ninja Warrior Kids Germany and made it all the way to the semi-finals. “In the first round, I got the buzzer! In the second round, I fell into the water,” she says with a grin. “But it helped my judo a lot—my grip strength became so much better.” These days, she even has a mini parkour setup in her backyard.
Photo Credit: Jonas Löffler
As part of the IPPONGEAR athlete team, Jolina proudly reps the brand wherever she goes. “It’s an honor. I’m part of the team with Olympic champions! Sometimes I can’t even believe it.”
She might be young, but Jolina already lives the values that judo teaches — especially respect and friendship. “You fight with others but still show respect—you don’t hurt each other. And I have friends all over the world. When I walk into the sports hall, people say hello. That makes me really happy.”
Jolina looks up to the Ballhaus sisters. Seija Ballhaus is the current European Champion in the same weight category as her, and Mascha Ballhaus is a double world bronze medalist in 52kg, who she trains with. She also admires Georgii Zantaraia (UKR) and Hifumi Abe (JPN)—not just for their success, but for their character: “They are never arrogant. I really like that.”
Of course, every champion has their secret weapon. For Jolina, it’s Nutella. “I’m a huge Nutella fan. I eat Nutella biscuits at every competition—and when I stay over at friends’ houses, their parents often buy me Nutella.”
So what’s next for Germany’s rising star? “This year, I want to win the EYOF and become cadet world champion. But the big dream? The Olympics. I train every day for this.” She’s already got her sights set on Brisbane 2032 — and don’t be surprised when you see her there.
Jolina trains in Bavaria with the same coach who introduced her to judo when she was three. “He’s like a father to me. Before every match, I call him, and he tells me exactly what to do. He knows my opponents better than I do!” Her family has been there from the start, too. “My dad took me to competitions all over Europe when I was younger. My mom always supports me—especially with healthy food when I’m cutting weight. They really support me.”
When asked about the advice that’s stuck with her the most, she smiles and shares a saying from her grandpa: “Don’t be scared. Everybody’s cooking with water.” It might sound simple, but to Jolina, it means everything. “Just be yourself and fight.”
And that’s exactly what she’s doing — fighting with heart, with joy, and with all the energy of a true IPPONGEAR Rising Star. We are truly happy to have you on our TEAM and look forward to supporting you on your journey.
