Panaji: Shikha Pathak, hailing from Vasco, Goa, has been appointed as the Head Referee for the Fighting Ju-Jitsu discipline in Asia by the Ju-Jitsu Asian Union (JJAU). The JJAU serves as the governing body for Ju-Jitsu in Asia and holds recognition from the Ju-Jitsu International Federation and the Olympic Council of Asia.
The appointment comes as JJAU contemplates five different disciplines at the Asia level, including Duo, Show, Fighting, Jiu-Jitsu, and Contact disciplines. Shikha Pathak's role involves overseeing the Referee Education Development Program for fighting disciplines across 44 countries in Asia, spanning East, West, Central, and Southwest regions.
Shikha's selection for this prestigious role is based on her exemplary performance, experience over the years, and qualifications. She is the first person from both Asia and India to hold the position of Head Referee for the Fighting Ju-Jitsu discipline.
Shikha Pathak has a track record of significant achievements, including being the first Asian referee selected for the fighting discipline at the World Combat Games in Riyadh and representing India at the Sea Games in Cambodia. Last year, she participated in various international events as a referee, such as the Adults Ju-Jitsu World Championship in Magnolia, the Youth Ju-Jitsu World Championship in Kazakhstan, and the Thailand JJIF Grand Prix and World Contact Cup.
Shikha's upcoming assignments include the World and Youth Ju-Jitsu Championships in Greece. Her appointment signifies a milestone not only in her career but also in the recognition of Indian and Asian referees on the international stage.
