Montreal, October 13, 2016 – After a prolific career as a judoka, and more than ten years as part of the National Team’s coaching squad, Nicolas Gill is now stepping a little further away from the tatami. Gill officially stepped into a new role as Judo Canada’s Interim Chief Executive Officer as of last Tuesday. 

“When the opportunity presented itself, I sat back and thought about where I was in my professional career. It seemed to me to be a great opportunity and an exciting new challenge,” commented Nicolas Gill, who will replace Executive Director Adrien Landry.

“It’s the logical continuation of the work that I have already begun, and I’d like to thank Adrian for all he has accomplished for Judo Canada,” continued Gill, who has two young children–Cloé and Thomas–and is pleased at the prospect of having more regular work hours.  “I have to admit that played a part in my decision,” Gill added.

The 44 year-old knows that while new challenges aren’t always easy to take on, he’s ready for this next step. “Certainly, the most important mission we will have is to increase the Federation’s revenue. There will be some restructuring of administrative services, and I will surround myself with a solid team to support me in my new role.”

A National Team Coach since 2005 who then became Head Coach in 2009, Nicolas Gill will be leaving Canada’s judokas in good hands. Michel Almeida will take the reins as Head Coach, and National Men’s Team coach.

“Michel Almeida has all the knowledge he needs to take over. He was already performing similar functions in Portugal prior to coming to Judo Canada last year–and part of his success will also depend on me! In terms of planning and programming, we’ll be working together,” confirmed the two-time Olympic medallist, who will also retain his position as High Performance Director.

Sasha Mehmedovic will remain Coach of the National Women’s Team, Jean-Pierre Cantin will stay on as Coach of the National Junior Team, and Andrzej Sadej will continue to be Coach of the National Para-judo Team. Janusz Pawlowski will also remain in the position of Assistant Coach.  

Even though he’ll no longer be training protégés on a daily basis, Nicolas Gill will continue to support them every day: “I’ll always be there, but in a different role,” concluded the new Chief Executive Officer.