Experienced NZ Judo team named for Glasgow
- 4 hours ago
- 2 min read
Seven judo athletes have been confirmed in the New Zealand Team for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The Judo team brings recent Commonwealth Games experience to the NZ Team, with three medallists returning from Birmingham 2022; Kody Andrews claiming silver and Sydnee Andrews and Moira de Villiers bronze medals in 2022.
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One of New Zealand’s most experienced judoka players, de Villiers, is a two-time Olympian and two-time Commonwealth Games competitor.
“Glasgow 2014 was my first Commonwealth Games, I have fond memories of competing there and I’m looking forward to going back,” said de Villiers.
“Wearing the fern and competing for the New Zealand Team is something I never take for granted. I’ve been fortunate enough to attend multiple Games but the pride, passion and drive to represent my country never gets old,” she said.
Judo New Zealand President, David Browne, said the selected athletes had shown consistency and growth throughout the campaign.
“This group has put in the work over a sustained period and has met the standards required to be competitive at the Games,” said Browne.
“We’re excited to see this group compete on the Glasgow stage. Selection is just one step in the journey and their focus now moves towards preparation and execution.”
Judo competition at Glasgow 2026 will take place in the final weekend of the Games at the SEC Centre, with around 160 athletes competing across 14 weight categories.
NZ Team Judo athletes:
Moira de Villiers – Women’s Under 70kg
Noah Walliss – Men’s Under 90kg
Qona Christie – Women’s Under 63kg
Kody Andrews – Men’s +100kg
Elliott Connolly – Men’s Under 90kg
Matthew Rowley – Men’s Under 100kg
Joel Robinson – Men’s Under 73kg
Sydnee Andrews* – Women’s +78kg
*Selection of Sydnee Andrews is conditional.