Founded in 2023 by former national and Pan-American champion Chuck Jefferson, Judo United has gained recognition for events such as the San Jose Open and the Champions Cup. Built on Jefferson’s experience at San Jose State University under Yosh Uchida, the organisation promotes excellence, discipline and community.
The United States plays a vital role in this initiative, not only due to the upcoming Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028 but also because the IJF believes the moral code of judo can help young people succeed in life. With its diverse population and many diasporas, judo offers a powerful pathway for inclusion, personal growth and new opportunities.
Together, the IJF and Judo United are working to inspire the next generation and elevate judo’s impact both on and off the mat.
"We are proud to collaborate with the International Judo Federation to help grow judo in the United States. Through events, training camps and community initiatives, our goal is to create meaningful opportunities for athletes and clubs while sharing the values that make judo such a powerful force for personal development. With the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games approaching, this is an exciting moment to bring the global judo community closer together," emphasised Chuck Jefferson.
Pan-America is at the beginning of an exciting period of focus and investment thanks to the Olympic Games. Chuck Jefferson and Judo United are determined to use this window of opportunity for the benefit of all.