Canary Islands Judo Federation President Antonio Coruña Melián Dies at 75
Antonio Coruña Melián, the long-serving president of the Canary Islands Judo Federation and a pioneering figure in Spanish judo, has passed away at the age of 75.
Spanish sport is mourning the loss of Antonio Coruña Melián, the long-serving president of the Canary Islands Judo Federation. His passing marks the end of an era for the sport in the archipelago, where he spent over three decades transforming judo into a professional and well-established discipline.
Born in 1949 in the San José neighborhood of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Coruña Melián’s life was defined by his dedication to the mat. He began his athletic journey in Canarian wrestling at age nine before transitioning to judo. Mentored by Amado and Andrés Ramos, he became the first judoka from the islands to compete internationally. His impressive career included four national titles (1969, 1970, 1971, and 1979), a silver medal at the Mediterranean Games, and ten years on the national team. This competitive success gave him the expertise and authority that would later define his leadership.
As president of the Canary Islands Judo Federation since its founding in 1994, Coruña Melián was instrumental in putting the islands on the national stage. Under his guidance, the region began hosting major senior and veteran championships, eventually earning the prestigious Francisco Valcárcel Trophy in 2025 as the best regional federation in Spain. His personal achievements were equally significant; in 2018, he attained the 9th Dan—the highest grade in the Spanish system—and was honored last year during the 75th anniversary of the Royal Spanish Judo Federation.
Coruña Melián’s death leaves a significant void in Canarian sport. He leaves behind a lasting legacy, having helped judo grow from a niche activity into a cornerstone of the regional sports community. His influence lives on through the many clubs and athletes who developed under his leadership.