Judo as sport helps children "grow in an atmosphere of discipline, accountability and good health," Tonga's King Tupou VI said in opening the 2017 Oceania Judo Union Championships on Friday, April 28 at the ‘Atele Indoor Stadium as the King noted the benefits of sports for youth in the Pacific.

"Judo as a sport is an enabling lens that can enrich one’s experiences and enjoyment.”

The King said the benefits of sports for youth included teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership, perseverance and respect for rules.

“Sports and judo have all these five beneficial qualities. Qualities that Pacific youth, especially Tongan youth may learn from. Life is a series of choices that do not very often come around twice. The choices that one makes in one’s early life either magnifies or dim one’s chances later in life.”

"Perhaps some of the benefits for parents is seeing and knowing that their children will grow in an atmosphere of discipline, accountability and good health."

The King said the growing problem in Tonga and the Pacific, but increasing worldwide, is the rapid growth of Non-Communicable Diseases. Educating good health practices and regular exercise at an early age would mitigate these problems.

A colourful flag parade of participating countries was also held during the ceremony.

Around 131 athletes from 12 countries are competing, representing Australia, Fiji, Guam, Nauru, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu. The Championships end on Saturday, April 29.

Tonga's King practiced judo when he was young.