From São Bernardo to the world: Manuela Maia is Flamengo's partner at the U-18 Judo World Championships in Bulgaria

At just 16 years old, Manuela Gomes Maia has already built a respectable judo resume. A native of São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo, the young Flamengo athlete will represent Brazil at the U-18 Cadet World Championships, which will be held in Sofia, Bulgaria. Her history is marked by dedication, focus, and love for the sport, as well as significant achievements. With the club since 2022, Manu - as is called — has been growing on and off the mat, establishing itself as one of the great promises of the sport in the countryis. Her debut will be next Friday (29), against the judoka from Kyrgyzstan, Aidai Kakitaeva. The preliminaries take place at 3:30 and the finals at 10:30.

How did you start in judo?
I started judo at age six, after practicing artistic gymnastics for three years and also swimming. I always wanted to train in a combat sport, so I also tried jiu-jitsu. When I left gymnastics, my teacher talked to my mother about the importance of me pursuing an Olympic sport. Judo was the closest Olympic sport to my home. — and that's how it all starteded. After just two weeks of training, I was invited to join the São Bernardo team, which is now part of the São Bernardo Institute of Excellence.

Arrival at Flamengo
My older sister was a gymnast and joined Flamengo's team in January 2022. At the end of March of that year, my mother and sister spoke with Sensei Rose to see if the club would welcome me as well. Sensei opened her doors and gave me the opportunity to train with the main team from the beginning. This opportunity was essential for my development, and I am very grateful that it made such a difference in my career.

Day to day at Flamengo
Here at Flamengo I'm very happy! I have friends and coaches who support me daily. — they jThey're already part of my life. The training sessions are demanding, both technically and physically, but the atmosphere remains light. Flamengo has become an extension of my home.

Idols
I don't have specific idols, but I tend to observe people and seek inspiration from life's attitudes that I consider correct. I like, for example, Michael Phelps's focus and determination.

Main achievements
Gold at the School World Cup
Three-Time Pan American Champion
Three-time Brazilian Champion
Gold in the National Selection
Silver and bronze at the U-18 National Meeting
Bronze in the Under-21 National Meeting
Silver in the Under-21 Brazil Cup
Bronze in Bielsko-Biala European Cup
Bronze in Thuringia Cup (pool Blankenburg)

Technical sheet
Name: Manuela Gomes Maia
Date of birth: 20/01/2009
Age: 16 years
Level: 1,61m
Naturalness: São Bernardo do Campo/SP