Luca Montebello
When did you start Judo?
Started in 1997, was only 4 years old.
Why did you start Judo?
At that age, it was just pure luck; judo was the very first sport I had a go at, while mum was pleased I wasn't around in the house causing trouble and mischief at home I guess it was the right decision all along.
What do you value the most?
Respect.
Are you a glass half empty or glass half full kind of person?
Usually I would like to think that I'm the glass half full type of person because I try to stay positive as best as I can and make sure others are too. That being said there are days where I see myself in the glass half empty party. I guess it all depends on the situations or life circumstances we're all going through, there's a reason for every choice we make so being compassionate and understanding is always the way to go about this.
If you could do anything in the world what would it be?
This is a tough one but I wish I could travel the world, not just for the sake of travelling, but to connect with other people, meet with and learn about different cultures and get to see many extraordinary places this world has to offer us.
Where do you want to be in 5-10 years from now?
Normally I try to plan ahead to make sure I reach any target I set myself, however this is beyond my control since it's longterm and anything can happen. All I hope is that, 5-10 years from now, I will still be active in Judo, with a job I'm passionate about and hope to have had the possibility to travel to a country or 2 still on my bucket list.
Describe yourself in 6 words
Honest, Cheerful, Respectful, Curious, Loyal, Understanding.
Who is your favourite Judoka?
It's very difficult to pick only one out of the whole lot, but if I really had to choose it would be Ilias Iliadis for his work ethic, Shohei Ono for his mentality and I would even put in the list Sarah Asahina for her cheerful character despite being a powerhouse herself.
