Who Is Anka?
Anka Pogacnik was born 23 December 1991 in Slovenia. She is in the -70 weight category in Judo. Anka won a Gold medal at the Antalya Grand Prix in 2017 and a Gold medal at the Zagreb Grand Prix in 2021.
She’s also won one silver and three bronze Grand Prix medals over the years. Her first IJF World Tour medal was the Bronze medal at the Zagreb Grand Prix in 2016. She’s also won medals at 15 continental opens (6 gold, 4 silver, and 5 bronze) and two gold medals at continental cups.
Can you tell us about your journey in judo and how you got started in the sport?
I started training judo by accident. My father took me with him to pick up my older brother from judo training, and when we came home, I told my parents that I wanted to train judo. The next session, I was there.
What drew you to judo specifically, and what do you enjoy most about the sport?
As a child, I was full of energy and wanted to try everything. In judo, what I enjoy the most is its unpredictability. You can’t predict even a few seconds in advance; anyone can beat anyone. I also appreciate the respect between fighters.
How do you approach weight management and cutting weight while ensuring you stay healthy and perform at your best?
I don’t have many weight-cutting problems. I fight in the under 70 kg category, and my weight is usually around 72/73 kg. In the last few days, I skip dinners and wear a sauna suit for the last two days.
How do you prepare yourself mentally and physically for judo competitions?
I prefer not to know the draw until the evening before the competition because I try not to think about others and instead concentrate on myself and my judo. I keep telling myself to go out there, show my judo, and enjoy it.
Could you share some of the key principles or philosophies that guide your approach to judo?
My guiding principle is to keep going because my time will come.
What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in your judo career, and how did you overcome them?
There was a point when I stopped enjoying judo and felt the need to make a change. I took a break for a few months and switched clubs. The new environment gave me a lot of power and positive energy to continue.
Can you describe a memorable moment or achievement in your judo career that stands out to you?
My first win in the IJF World Tour stands out as a memorable achievement for me. I can’t express how proud I was, and the feeling of hearing the national anthem was incredible.
How do you balance your training schedule with other aspects of your life, such as work or education?
I strive to be very organized and set priorities to balance my training schedule with other commitments.
What role does your coach play in your development as a judoka, and how do they support you?
My coach is like a father to me. He sees me more than my family does. He encourages me when I’m feeling down and celebrates my successes.
Are there any specific training techniques or drills that you find particularly effective in improving your skills?
I trust my coach’s plan 100% and push myself in every session. I can’t pinpoint specific techniques or drills, but I believe in the effectiveness of consistent training.
What advice would you give to aspiring judo athletes who are just starting their journey in the sport?
Believe in yourself and have fun.
How do you handle nerves or pressure before a competition, and do you have any pre-match rituals?
My pre-match ritual is that I don’t want to know the draw until the evening before the competition. Then I watch a few videos and analyze them with my coach. From there, I take it step by step, fight by fight. I avoid calculating the potential outcomes and focus on the present.
Could you share a valuable lesson that judo has taught you, both on and off the mat?
Judo has taught me to always be humble and respect others. Success comes and goes, but it’s how you define yourself that matters.
Are there any particular judo athletes who inspire or influence you, and why?
Urska Zolnir inspires me. I trained with her in Celje, and she was the hardest worker I have ever seen. Despite facing numerous injuries, she always picked herself up and found a way back. Her achievements and her ability to remain humble and friendly have had a significant influence on me.
How do you stay motivated and maintain your passion for judo over the long term?
I stay motivated and passionate about judo through a combination of my own successes and the support of my friends in the judo community. When I’m feeling down, my friends are there to lift me up. I’ve also learned that taking a few days to clear my head when I’m feeling low doesn’t impact my performance negatively. It actually helps me regain focus and motivation.
Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations in judo, both in the near future and in the long term?
My ultimate goal is to compete in the Olympic Games. It’s something I’ve always wanted, and I’m doing everything I can to make it a reality. In the near future, I aim to continue improving my skills, participating in high-level competitions, and representing my country with pride. Long-term, I hope to leave a lasting impact on the sport and inspire future generations of judo athletes.
