PJC’S progressive application of certification requirements for coaches, in accordance with point 4.1 of the IJF Sport and Organization Rules (SOR)

Hello everyone,

Very Important message from the PJC that will impact the access to coaching accreditation at Montreal Open/Cup in November 2026

On behalf of Ms. Yuri Alvear, Education Director of the Panamerican Judo Confederation (PJC), we are sharing an important summary regarding the progressive application of certification requirements for coaches, in accordance with point 4.1 of the IJF Sport and Organization Rules (SOR):

• As of March 1, 2026: To coach at Panamerican Championships (Cadet, Junior, and Senior), coaches must hold at least one of these certifications: IJF Academy Level 1 Instructor, Undergraduate Certificate Judo Instructor (UCJI), or Master Coach Certification.
• Regional Events (Continental Open and Cups): Coaches must demonstrate they are enrolled in and attending the virtual phase of these programs, or have completed the virtual phase and are awaiting the practical session.
• As of March 1, 2027: These certifications will be mandatory for all events in the Panamerican Judo Confederation circuit.

Please find the official document attached to this email for full details.

Additionally, the schedule for 2026 practical sessions is available at the official IJF Academy link: https://academy.ijf.org/news/2026-practical-session-dates.

The Education Department appreciates your cooperation in ensuring compliance with these international standards.