Bavarian Judo Association Honors Three Middle Franconia Officials in Roßtal
The Bavarian Judo Association (BJV) awarded honorary pins to Cigdem Oberländer, Jens Geider, and Martin Jung during the District League finals in Roßtal on September 26. District Chairman Michael Heinitz presented the awards to recognize the long-term commitment and contributions of these three judokas to the sport within the Middle Franconia region.
Martin Jung Receives Gold Honor Pin
Martin Jung of TV 1848 Erlangen received the Gold Honor Pin. Jung has been involved in judo since 1993 and maintains a multifaceted role as a trainer and IT officer for his club. Since 2004, he has served as a referee, now operating at the national level. Since 2025, he has served as the Kampfrichterreferent of the Bavarian Judo Association. He also serves as a Kata evaluator.
Cigdem Oberländer and Jens Geider Awarded Silver Honor Pins
Two other officials received Silver Honor Pins for their extensive service to the sport:

- Cigdem Oberländer (TV Altdorf): An active judoka since 1997, Oberländer previously competed in the district and Bavarian squads. She currently trains beginner groups and holds a significant role in officiating. A BJV referee since 2010, she became a Federal A-Referee in 2023, allowing her to work international assignments. She also serves as the deputy head of referees in Middle Franconia.
- Jens Geider (Budo Club Eckental): Geider has spent decades in the sport, transitioning from a competition-focused youth judoka to a leadership role as a trainer. At BC Eckental, he manages training for children, adolescents, and adults. He further contributes to the sport as a club board member and assists in the training of future black belt (Dan) holders.
Integration of Volunteerism and Athletic Competition
The decision to hold the ceremony during the District League finals highlighted the connection between competitive success and the volunteer infrastructure required to sustain the sport. The awards recognize the essential nature of long-term engagement in coaching, refereeing, and administration within the Middle Franconia judo community.
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