The Youth Judo Project: Leveling the Playing Field for the Next Generation of Judoka
Across the U.S., talented young judoka are falling behind, not because of lack of dedication or ability, but because of the cost for training, travel, tournaments and gear. These essential building blocks of success are simply out of reach for some.
At the Yoshihiro Uchida Legacy Foundation, we believe no young athlete should be priced out of their potential. That’s why we’ve launched the Youth Judo Project (YJP): a nationwide initiative to break down financial barriers and build up the next generation of American judoka.
Why This Matters
SJSU Judo founder, Coach Yoshihiro Uchida, believed in opening doors for every athlete, regardless of their background. Today, that legacy continues. For YULF President Marti Malloy, a 2x Olympian and world medalist, this work is deeply personal. Growing up with limited means, it took community support and her mother juggling multiple side jobs to keep her on the mat. She knows firsthand what access can do. And she knows what’s at stake when young athletes don’t get that support.
Our Mission
The YJP exists to:
- Remove financial barriers for young judoka across the U.S.
- Support training, tournament travel and mentorship
- Connect youth athletes to collegiate and career opportunities
- Empower SJSU students to give back through paid coaching and leadership roles
Key Program Elements:
1. Grants for Competition & Training
We provide need-based funding so young judoka can attend national tournaments, participate in elite training camps, and get the equipment they need to compete.
2. Community-Building & Camps
We partner with Yudanshakai and judo nonprofits (starting in California and the Pacific Northwest) to host regional training sessions and build peer networks.
3. Talent & Education Pipeline
Through club partnerships and coach referrals, we identify top youth talent and get them the financial support they need and connect them to collegiate judo and educational pathways.
4. Mentorship from SJSU Athletes
We hire current SJSU student-judoka as coaches and mentors, giving youth athletes guidance while building leadership skills in the next generation of judo leaders.
Pilot Program Launching in Fall 2025
The first YJP programs are launching in California and the Pacific Northwest in partnership with Nanka, Cenco, and the Pacific Northwest Yudanshakai and will help us shape the national expansion of this work.
When you donate to the YJP, your donation fuels:
- Competition, travel and training opportunities for youth athletes
- Paid leadership roles for college students and mentorship to youth judoka
- Pathways to education and lifelong success and leadership skills
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