Thouars Students Learn Republican Values Through Judo
THOUARS, France – Students in the Capucins district of Thouars are learning essential republican values through judo, thanks to an initiative at the Anatole-France – Capucins school group. Yann Leroux, a 6th dan judo professor and director of the Judo Club Thouarsais, led the program, connecting judo principles with civic virtues.
Judo Training Grounded in Symbolic Location
The judo sessions took place at the Christian-Lemarchand dojo. This location carries meaningful weight, as Christian Lemarchand, a religious figure who headed the Saint-Charles institution where the dojo is located, is remembered for his integrity and his tragic experience with fanaticism in Algeria.
“Moral Code Diploma” Recognizes Achievement
Culminating on March 31, 2025, the program saw students awarded the “Moral Code Diploma” from the French Federation of Judo, Jujitsu, Kendo and Associated Disciplines. the diploma highlights key values emphasized during the training: friendship, self-control, politeness, honor, modesty, respect, sincerity and courage.
Extending Judo Values Beyond the Mat
The initiative aimed to help young people internalize appropriate behaviour, applicable both in school and in daily life, through judo practice. The program also introduced students to Japanese culture, which places high importance on interpersonal relationships and etiquette.
What role does the history of Christian Lemarchand and the dojo’s location play in reinforcing the program’s message?
Thouars Students Learn Republican Values Through Judo
THOUARS,France – Students in the Capucins district of Thouars are learning essential republican values through judo,thanks to an initiative at the Anatole-France – Capucins school group. Yann Leroux, a 6th dan judo professor and director of the Judo Club Thouarsais, led the program, connecting judo principles with civic virtues.
Judo Training Grounded in Symbolic Location
The judo sessions took place at the Christian-Lemarchand dojo. This location carries meaningful weight, as Christian Lemarchand, a religious figure who headed the saint-Charles institution were the dojo is located, is remembered for his integrity and his tragic experience with fanaticism in Algeria.
“Moral code Diploma” Recognizes Achievement
Culminating on March 31,2025, the program saw students awarded the “Moral Code diploma” from the French Federation of Judo,Jujitsu,Kendo and associated Disciplines. the diploma highlights key values emphasized during the training: friendship, self-control, politeness, honor, modesty, respect, sincerity and courage.
Extending Judo Values Beyond the Mat
the initiative aimed to help young people internalize appropriate behavior, applicable both in school and in daily life, through judo practice. the program also introduced students to Japanese culture, which places high importance on interpersonal relationships and etiquette.
Q&A: Judo and Republican Values in Thouars
Q: What are “republican values”?
A: In this context, they refer to the core principles of the French Republic, such as liberty, equality, and fraternity, as well as civic virtues like respect, responsibility, and self-control. These are taught alongside the values of judo.
Q: Who is Yann Leroux?
A: Yann Leroux is a highly experienced judo instructor (6th dan) and the head of the Judo Club Thouarsais. He designed and led the program, connecting judo with republican values.
Q: Why is the location of the dojo significant?
A: The dojo is named after Christian Lemarchand, a figure known for his integrity and who experienced a tragic event. This connection adds weight to the values being taught, as a symbol of the values of the French republic that were defended by Mr. Lemarchand.
Q: What is the “Moral Code Diploma”?
A: It’s a certification awarded by the French Judo Federation, recognizing students’ understanding and practice of key values like friendship, politeness, and courage, as emphasized during the judo training.
Q: How does Judo teach these values?
A: Judo emphasizes discipline, respect for opponents and the rules, and self-control. These principles are directly applicable to everyday life and contribute to a positive social environment.
Q: What is Judo Club Thouarsais?
A: Judo club Thouarsais is a judo club located in Thouars, France. It is directed by Yann Leroux.
Q: What aspects of Japanese culture were introduced?
A: The program highlighted Japanese etiquette and emphasis on interpersonal relationships, reinforcing the values of respect and politeness.
Q: Where is Thouars, France?
A: thouars is a town located in the Deux-Sèvres department in the nouvelle-Aquitaine region of western France.
Q: Can these principles be applied elsewhere?
A: Absolutely! The program’s goal is to teach students values that they can use in school, at home, and in their community. Judo is a grate way to teach values that can be applied everywhere.
Experience the positive impact of judo and republican values in action! Consider exploring similar programs in yoru community.
