The battle for qualification: Aleksandra Kaleta

In the realm of Polish judo, one name shines bright - Aleksandra Kaleta(26) born in Olkusz, Kaleta journey in judo began in 2007, in her hometown of Wolbrom. Coming from a family where sports held a significant place, Kaleta dabbled in various activities, including ballroom dancing and ballet, before finding her calling in judo. A chance encounter led her to a judo training session, and from that moment on, there was no turning back. Currently she is the world number 20 in -52kg category and has a serious outlook on qualifying for her first Olympic Games in Paris.

Under the guidance of her club coach, Czeslaw Laksa, and national coach, Jacek Kowalski, Kaleta honed her skills and quickly rose through the ranks. She made her mark early on, winning Polish titles in each age division and showcasing her prowess on both the national and international stage.

Kaleta's list of achievements is nothing short of impressive. She clinched bronze at the 2018 World Championships Juniors in Nassau, a testament to her talent and determination. Another highlight of her career came at the Grand Slam Antalya in 2021, where she secured yet an important bronze medal, solidifying her reputation as one of Poland's finest judokas.

But Kaleta's journey has not been without its challenges. In 2022, she faced a setback when she dislocated her knee during a training camp in Benidorm. However, true to her resilient spirit, Kaleta refused to be deterred by adversity, using it as fuel to drive her forward.

Off the mat, Kaleta is a multifaceted individual with a diverse set of interests. When she's not training or competing, she can be found indulging in hobbies such as reading books, watching series, cycling, and swimming. Her passion for life extends beyond judo, reflecting her vibrant personality and zest for adventure.

Kaleta's superstitions and rituals offer a glimpse into her meticulous approach to competition. From listening to the same songs on the way to competitions to following a specific warm-up routine, Kaleta's attention to detail is evident in every aspect of her preparation.

Looking to the future, Kaleta harbors ambitions to qualify for the Olympic Games and win a medal, but outside the mat to become a renowned physiotherapist, leveraging her knowledge and expertise to make a difference in the lives of others. But for now, her focus remains on judo, as she continues to strive for excellence and chase her dreams on the tatami.