As 2024 comes to a close, we look back with immense gratitude and pride at what we’ve accomplished together. This has truly been a remarkable year for Judo United, and none of it would have been possible without the unwavering support of our athletes, parents, coaches, referees, and volunteers. Thank you for helping us elevate Judo to new heights!

Reflecting on 2024’s Highlights

• National Training Camp (April): Over 200 athletes from across the country joined us in San Jose for an unforgettable weekend of learning and camaraderie. Big Thank you to Shintaro Nakano, Eitan Gelber, Kosuke Tanaka, Toni Lettner and Mike Swain!

• Champions Cup (March): Nearly 500 contestants competed at Foothill College for the inaugural Champions Cup. Our thrilling Super Fight Divisions awarding cash prizes to top athletes. This event embodied the spirit of competition and sportsmanship. Tri-Valley Judo came out on top for the team competition, big congrats to Kevin Butler and team for capturing the 1st annual Champions Cup!

• San Jose Open (October): Our marquee event welcomed nearly 1,000 entries at its stunning new home—The Plex in San Jose. This world-class sports and entertainment facility provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable tournament.

• Honoring a Legend: We had the honor of recognizing Sensei Yosh Uchida, a pioneer and pillar of the American Judo community. Sensei Uchida dedicated his life to the growth of Judo in the U.S., leaving a legacy that will inspire generations. His passing this year at the age of 104 reminds us of the profound impact one individual can have on a sport and its community.

  
  

  A Special Thank You to Our Sponsors

  
  

  In 2024, we were incredibly fortunate to receive amazing support from local Judo clubs and sponsors that made it all possible.

  
  

  A big shout-out to our headline sponsor, Dollamur Sports Surfaces. Dollamur has played a vital role in Judo United, not only during our crucial startup in 2023 but also in helping us grow and re-invest in 2024. Thanks to their support, we were able to double the size of our marquee event, the San Jose Open, and now have the capacity to run 8 mats at this world-class event!

  
  

  We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the San Jose Sports Authority and Visit San Jose for their unwavering support. We were honored to have the Chairman of the Board, Mr. Charlie Faas, give the opening remarks at the 2024 San Jose Open, recognizing Coach Uchida and his monumental contributions to Judo in our community.

  
  

  If you’ve seen the amazing photos from our Judo United events, they’re thanks to one of the best Judo photographers in the industry—Lumax Photography. Their talent continues to showcase the beauty and spirit of Judo through their lens.

  Lastly, we’re thrilled about our ongoing partnership with The Plex in San Jose, which provides the perfect venue to showcase our incredible sport.

  
  

  To all the Judo clubs that been part of Judo United events, we could not do it without you. Every mat, every scale every person at Judo United Event is representing different Judo Clubs, That is what makes us Judo United! Silicon Valley Judo, Santa Clara PAL, San Jose State Judo, Spartan Judo, Sekai Judo, San Francisco Judo Institute, Valley Judo, Cal Berkley and of Course big shout to Nanka Judo for always supporting what we do

  
  

Looking Ahead to 2025

We’re thrilled to announce our 2025 Schedule and look forward to seeing you at these incredible events:

• 15 March: Referee & Coaches Clinic | Peery Family Center

• 16 March: Champions Cup | Peery Family Center, Palo Alto, CA

• 3-4 May: Training Camp | San Jose, CA

• 3-5 October: San Jose Open | The Plex, San Jose, CA

  
  

Make sure to mark your calendars and join us for another year of exceptional Judo experiences!

Once again, thank you for your continued support and passion for Judo. Together, we’re not just building events—we’re building a community that reflects the values of respect, perseverance, and continuous improvement.

We can’t wait to see what 2025 holds for Judo United, and we’re excited to share it with all of you. Wishing you a safe and joyous holiday season and a Happy New Year!

All in Judo

Chuck Jefferson

Founder, Judo United