A Legacy of Excellence

  • Alumni Legacy

    Under the guidance of Head Coach Yosh Uchida, generations of judo athletes have not only excelled on the mat but have also gone on to make meaningful contributions in diverse fields. Among Coach Uchida’s students are entrepreneurs, a U.S. Senator and professionals at renowned companies including Microsoft, Apple and Applied Materials.

    His mentorship has shaped alumni into leaders, award-winning producers, and engineers, showcasing the far-reaching impact of Coach Uchida’s vision. Beyond judo, his influence has cultivated individuals who continue to excel across industries, reflecting a legacy of excellence that extends well beyond the dojo.

  • A photo L to R: George Harris, James  Bregman, Yoshihiro Uchida, Paul Maruyama, Ben Nighthorse Campbell

    Olympic Legacy

    Coach Yosh Uchida has guided SJSU judo athletes to a distinguished legacy of Olympic achievement. Beginning with the 1964 Tokyo Games—where he coached the first-ever Olympic judo team featuring his students Paul Maruyama and Ben Nighthorse Campbell—Coach Uchida’s mentorship has produced Olympians across decades.

    Recent athletes, including Bobby Berland, Kevin Asano, Mike Swain, Marti Malloy and Colton Brown, continue to reflect the enduring excellence instilled by Coach Uchida. His leadership on the Olympic stage demonstrates not only athletic achievement but also the lifelong impact of his guidance and dedication.

  • SJSU Judo student sitting down in white gis

    Future Legacy

    Looking ahead, Coach Yosh Uchida’s commitment to developing athletes who blend education with sport remains unwavering even since his passing. His approach ensures a continued holistic experience, shaping individuals who succeed both academically and athletically.

    As the 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games approach in Los Angeles, Coach Uchida’s legacy continues to empower students to achieve on the mat while making meaningful contributions to their communities. Through his example, the Uchida Legacy endures, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence in all aspects of life.

SJSU Judo History

Check out some of our favorite videos featuring the SJSU Judo program.

Senate Cortese Adjourns in Memory of Yoshihiro Uchida on Monday August 12th.