Russian President of the European Judo Union Sergey Soloveychik resigned today. Soloveychik was president of the EJU since the year of 2007. He resigned at an extraordinary EJU Executive Committee Meeting. Following his proposal vice president Otto Kneitinger of Germany (67), was unanimously elected to take over as interim EJU President. Soloveychik is also vice president of the International Judo Federation based upon his EJU presidency.
Sergey Soloveychik: “Today, all the people of Europe, including the family of the European Judo Union, are faced with a situation unprecedented in its tragedy. It is with heartache that we see the people in brotherly countries die. And we pray to God for the end of human suffering.
Judo has always been an international force in supporting peace. The European Judo Union has consistently taken steps to strengthen universal values. It has always been so and, I’m sure, will always be! In this incredibly difficult political situation, we must be stronger and more united than ever.
I believe that to maintain unity within our ranks, I have to resign as President of the European Judo Union.
You’ve known me for years, and no one doubts that my heart belongs to judo. But it is equally true that it belongs to my homeland, Russia. We, judoka, must always be loyal to our principles.
I am certain that goodwill will prevail. I urge you, my dear friends and colleagues, to put aside the emotions currently overwhelming us and to find the strength to begin to bring back peace lost in our hearts.”