Born: 1973 (Wolfratshausen, Bavaria)
Biography:
Johanna Hagn, born on January 27, 1973, in Wolfratshausen, Bavaria, is a renowned German judoka who has made significant contributions to the sport. She has left an indelible mark on the world of judo through her achievements and dedication to the sport.
Hagn began her judo career at SC Beuerberg under the tutelage of coach Kurt Polzer. It was here that she developed her skills and passion for the sport. She soon showcased her talent and potential, catching the attention of many in the judo community.
Throughout her career, Hagn represented various clubs, including ASG Elsdorf, SC Beuerberg, and TSV München-Großhadern. These clubs provided her with invaluable opportunities to grow and improve as a judoka.
In 1993, Hagn achieved a significant milestone by winning the World Championship in Hamilton, Canada, in the under 72 kg category. Her victory against Noniko Anno with an O-Uchi-Gari technique showcased her skill and determination. This triumph solidified her status as a top judoka on the international stage and brought her well-deserved recognition.
She continued to excel nationally and internationally, winning the German Championship in Hamm in 1993 and again in Karlsruhe in 1995, both in the under 72 kg category. Her consistent success in national competitions further established her as one of Germany’s top judokas.
The pinnacle of Hagn’s career came in 1996 when she represented Germany at the Summer Olympics in Atlanta. She showcased her exceptional skills and determination, winning a bronze medal in the under 72 kg category. This remarkable achievement solidified her place among the world’s elite judokas. For her outstanding performance, she was awarded the Silver Laurel Leaf by the Federal President, a recognition bestowed upon all Olympic medalists.
Hagn’s success extended beyond individual achievements, as she also made significant contributions to the German national team. She played an integral role in the team’s success at various international events. In 1993, she helped secure a third-place finish for the team at the European Team Championships in Frankfurt (Oder). Two years later, she again contributed to a third-place finish, this time at the European Team Championships in Trnava, Slovakia. In 1998, the team achieved a remarkable second-place finish at the European Team Championships in Villach, Austria.
After retiring from competitive judo in 2001, Hagn transitioned to the coaching realm. She embarked on a coaching career, initially working as the national coach for the female youth U17. Simultaneously, she pursued her studies in Cologne to become a certified trainer. In 2003, she assumed the role of assistant national coach in Cologne, specifically within the sports promotion group of the German Armed Forces, judo department.
Hagn’s dedication to the sport and her commitment to the development of young judokas exemplify her enduring impact on the judo community. Her journey is an inspiration to aspiring athletes, particularly women, who seek to follow in her footsteps and make their mark on the sport of judo.
Awards:
– Silver Laurel Leaf, awarded by the Federal President for winning a bronze medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta