Financials of USA Judo - Matthew Parker | The Shintaro Higashi Show
Behind the Scenes of USA Judo: Matthew Parker Pulls Back the Curtain
On this episode of The Shintaro Higashi Show, financial advisor and judoka Matthew Parker joins Shintaro and Peter to deliver one of the most transparent conversations yet about USA Judo’s internal structure, financial health, and what’s at stake in the upcoming board elections.
A veteran of the sport who once competed internationally at 73kg, Parker is now running for the at-large board position. He currently chairs the Athlete Advisory Committee (AAC) and brings both a competitive and financial lens to the issues facing USA Judo.
Watch the full video here ↓
A Judoka and Financial Professional
Though he’s moved from the tatami to the financial world, Parker remains deeply embedded in the community. He now teaches judo at a small club in Colorado while working as a certified financial planner.
“I help small business owners and affluent individuals with estate, tax, and investment planning,” Parker explains. “And I think those skills can really help USA Judo raise the funds it desperately needs.”
USA Judo’s Budget: Is $800,000 Enough?
Parker didn’t mince words about the financial reality.
“USA Judo’s annual budget is about $800,000. That’s not a lot. About 80% of that comes from the USOPC,” he says.
He also addressed the controversial $1 million purchase of the American Judo System — a curriculum developed by Jimmy Pedro’s camp — which drew criticism for unclear terms and budget allocation.
“Did they budget over time? Was it a lump sum? Nobody really knows. That’s the transparency issue I want to fix.
Why He’s Running: Fundraising, Communication & Veteran Inclusion
Parker’s three campaign pillars are:
Bringing in sponsorship and fundraising staff to make the budget sustainable.
Improving transparency, using social media to publicly summarize board decisions.
Including veterans and non-elite athletes in USA Judo’s strategic vision.
He sees a huge missed opportunity in events like the Veterans World Championships in Las Vegas, where USA Judo provided little support or promotion.
“Veterans judo is massive in countries like France. We have to support and grow this community here.”
Leadership Accountability & Keith Bryant’s Future
Current CEO Keith Bryant originally pledged to raise $4 million — a promise that remains unfulfilled. Still, his contract was renewed for 6–12 more months.
“The board didn’t share the contingency publicly. But if you say you’ll raise millions and don’t, there needs to be accountability.”
Parker was candid about needing a full audit and an actual plan to bring in sponsorships, something USA Judo currently lacks.
Who Should Be on the Board?
Parker offered respectful insight into the other candidates, naming Marty Malloy as his top pick for athlete rep and recognizing the value of both Jason Morris and Jimmy Pedro joining the board — even while acknowledging potential conflicts of interest.
“It’s not about whether they have influence. It’s about whether they can put USA Judo first and recuse themselves when needed.”
Can BJJ Athletes Help Save USA Judo?
Shintaro raises a major point in this episode: Jiu-jitsu and judo communities are still operating in silos.
“There’s already a cross-membership. Why aren’t we promoting the insurance benefits for BJJ gyms? Why aren’t we onboarding these grapplers into judo?”
Parker agrees this is a huge opportunity — and one he’d pursue.
Closing Thoughts: A Vote for Transparency
Parker’s pitch is simple. He’s neutral, unaffiliated with any club or power bloc, and equipped with the financial know-how to address the biggest problems.
“I’ve called coaches. I’ve asked for feedback. I don’t have all the answers, but I’ll work for the community.”
As Shintaro put it best: “You gotta vote. If you’ve registered, now you have the info to make a real decision.”
Support the Show
If you’d like to continue supporting The Shintaro Higashi Show, check out our Patreon for exclusive content, mentorship opportunities, and behind-the-scenes access. Your support helps keep the podcast growing and evolving! Stay tuned for what’s next!
🔥 Want to take your Judo to the next level? Check out the All-in-One Instructional Bundle – 25% Off! for a clear, practical breakdowns of this essential throws. Available now at HigashiBrand.com.
Higashi Brand All-in-One Instructional Bundle! This exclusive collection includes all of Shintaro Higashi’s top instructionals in one powerful package, giving you the techniques, concepts, and strategies you need to dominate the mats.
✔ Comprehensive Training – Covering everything from throws, gripping strategies, transitions, and submissions to advanced tactics for Judo and BJJ.
✔ Perfect for All Levels – Whether you're a beginner looking to build fundamentals or an experienced competitor refining your game, this bundle has it all.
✔ High-Level Concepts – Learn the drilling sequences, movement mechanics, and real-world applications that separate hobbyists from elite athletes.
✔ LIMITED-TIME OFFER – Buy the full bundle now and get 25% off!