Grandparents take to the mat in Türkiye’s Duzce, support judo-champion grandkids
Gulsum Cil, a 65-year-old from Duzce, has been supporting her hopeful national judoka grandson, 16-year-old Rutkay Cil, from the stands for many years, Now, she brings that support to the mat as they train together. (AA Photo)
In Duzce, 65-year-old Gulsum Cil and 77-year-old Suleyman Tosun have taken up judo to support their grandchildren. The two grandparents have become integral to their grandchildren’s judo journey, even stepping onto the mat themselves after years of cheering them on from the sidelines.
A family’s commitment to judo
The couple’s dedication to the sport is not only a testament to their love for their grandchildren but also to their enduring passion for physical activity. Gulsum Cil’s 16-year-old grandson Rutkay Cil and 17-year-old granddaughter Aysenaz Tosun have become national judo hopefuls, with both grandparents frequently attending their training sessions and competitions.
Over the past few years, Gulsum and Suleyman’s involvement has extended beyond simply supporting their grandchildren in the stands. They have both joined the training sessions, and for the last four years, the couple has been training alongside their grandchildren on the mat.
Despite their advancing age, Gulsum and Suleyman have earned admiration for their perseverance, staying active and motivated. By staying fit through judo, they not only improve their own health but also continue to encourage their grandchildren’s progress in the sport.
A deep connection to their grandchildren’s success
Gulsum Cil, a grandmother of seven, shared her dedication to her family’s journey in judo, saying: “I’ve been following my grandson for 10 years now. He is a precious athlete, and I’ve never missed any of his training or competitions.” She added, “My grandchildren are everything to me, and I will do whatever they ask. When they’re your ‘heart’s piece,’ you want to give them everything they need.”
Rutkay Cil expressed his joy at training with his grandmother, saying, “She started by watching me, and now she participates in warm-ups and technical drills. We’re happy because we get to spend more time together.”
Suleyman Tosun, who has been supporting his 17-year-old granddaughter Aysenaz for the past eight years, also shared his connection to the sport. “I used to run marathons in the past, but now, I run after my grandchildren. I attend their matches, and the excitement is just the same. We won’t give up; we’ll keep going, and we’re proud of them.”
Aysenaz Tosun spoke about the importance of her grandfather’s presence, saying, “I love my grandfather so much. His presence at my matches and training motivates me. I feel happy, and it helps me focus better.”
Value of experience and support
Judo coach Nermin Alayildiz praised the invaluable role of the grandparents in the athletes’ journeys. “Their experience brings so much to the table, and it positively affects both the athletes and the training environment. They often cheer loudly from the stands, and we can see their support and energy give the grandchildren strength.”
Alayildiz noted that the older family members had become so familiar with the sport that they even joined the training sessions. “They’ve been so attentive that they now know judo well enough to join us on the mat. It’s wonderful to have the whole family together. It’s a beautiful thing to witness families, including grandparents, supporting their young athletes.”
Building stronger family bonds through judo
The family bond is undeniably strengthened through judo. Alayildiz explained, “When families are involved in training, it creates a strong sense of unity. We’ve seen several athletes enjoying wonderful training sessions with their grandparents. The joy they bring to the mat is contagious, and the memories they are building are priceless.”
She concluded, “Our doors are always open to grandmothers, grandfathers, and other family members. Their support is invaluable, and it enhances the spirit of the sport.”
