Future Judo Champions: Exclusive Interview | #judo #olympics #shintarohigashi
The pulse of American judo has never been stronger, and at the heart of this movement are young athletes rewriting the playbook on what it takes to reach the top. In this exclusive interview, Shintaro Higashi dives deep into the journeys of Kai Wallace, Jada Fulp and her coach Carie, Lenny Shinfeld, and the remarkable Yang family. Together, they reveal how grit, community, and vision are driving USA Judo toward a bright future—especially with the LA 2028 Olympics fast approaching.
Watch the full video here ↓
Kai Wallace: Uchimata Specialist & Relentless Improver
Background:
Mixed heritage (Jamaican dad, Japanese mom), grew up in Japan and the U.S., military family.
Trains at Los Angeles’ Tenri Dojo, drives hours for top-tier training.
Newest Junior Olympic champ and first-time junior world team member.
His secret:
“Judo is all about effort. It’s not about the dojo size—it’s what you put in. I think critically about what I’m doing, try to improve every session, and rely on my uchimata as my go-to move.”
Kai’s varied setups, left-handed uchimata, and ability to adapt on the mat make him a stand-out.
Balances neuroscience studies at UCLA while chasing an Olympic dream.
Jada Fulp & Coach Carie: Hard Work, Smart Movements, Big Goals
Jada Fulp:
78kg division fighter, following in Kayla Harrison’s footsteps.
Multiple-time gold medalist, just qualified for Junior Worlds in Jordan.
Loves tomoe nage, armbars, and “doing whatever my coach tells me to do.”
Aspires to be both an Olympian and a doctor—a driven student-athlete with big dreams.
Carie (Coach and Mentor):
Runs Chandler Judo Academy in Texas and innovative after-school programs combining homework and judo.
Believes coaches and clubs are the key to keeping talented teens engaged long-term, especially on the path toward LA 2028.
Focuses on athlete fitness, international experience, and the mental skills needed to win close matches.
Lenny Shinfeld: Calm, Confident, and Consistently Winning
Junior national team member, winner at both the senior and junior levels.
Trains across New York and Massachusetts, now proudly representing the NY Athletic Club.
Focuses on ashiwaza for setup and versatility, adapting his game to lefty matchups and new rule changes.
Emphasizes gratitude for his teammates, coaches, and the lessons of every match, win or lose.
The Yang Family: Sibling Success and the Power of a Support Network
Three brothers on the competitive scene, with championships and international experience.
Train at the USA Performance Center in North Carolina, coached by Israel Hernandez.
Embrace both judo and jiu-jitsu to round out their martial arts skillset—proof of the growing “crossover” energy in modern grappling.
Their father emphasizes the importance of family, coaching, and bringing more eyeballs to judo with social media and YouTube presence.
What’s Next for American Judo?
A surge of talent:
U.S. judo community leaders agree: This is the most promising group ever, with more athletes gaining overseas experience and bigger clubs feeding the national pipeline.
But—retaining talent and building long-term success depends on clubs, coaches, and a supportive judo ecosystem.
Clubs as community:
Innovative programs like after-school judo, family-oriented gyms, and creative coaching are the glue for the next era.
Olympic hopes:
With LA 2028 on the horizon, athletes like Jada and Kai are gunning for hometown glory—and inspiring the next wave to dream even bigger.
Follow their journeys:
Support these athletes on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to help put more spotlight on American judo.
From small-town dojos to the world’s biggest stage, these young judoka show what’s possible when talent, work ethic, and community come together. The next champions aren’t just waiting—they’re already making moves.
For more interviews and athlete stories, follow Shintaro Higashi on YouTube and Instagram. Stay tuned for the next step in the future of judo!Special Offer: FUJI GI’s 20% OFF
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