Legends Return: Exclusive Interviews from Junior World Team Trials!
Big tournaments aren’t just about matches—they’re opportunities for the sport’s leaders to connect, share, and teach. At the recent Junior World Team Trials, Shintaro Higashi caught up with some of the biggest names in U.S. judo today for candid conversations on athlete growth, club building, and the future of our sport.
Watch the full video here ↓
Max Kafka (Grappler Station, Fuji Sports)
Max Kafka—national champion and owner of Saint Paul’s Grappler Station—showcased the energy behind growing a modern dojo and community. His club, which boasts 300 students, is proof that kid-friendly, family-first programming works. Special holiday classes for parents and children, as well as creative community events, keep everyone engaged and coming back for more. Max’s advice?
Create family atmosphere: “Moms and dads want to interact with their kids. Make your club a happy place for everyone.”
Leverage social media: Use Instagram, TikTok, and newsletters to highlight everyday wins, events, and club culture.
Partner with quality brands: As a Fuji Sports rep, Max discussed supporting clubs with great gear and building relationships beyond the mat.
His secret to a strong judo business? Consistent activity, family energy, and being present at every big event.
Jimmy Pedro (Olympic Medalist, Coach, Fuji Sports)
Few names carry more weight than two-time Olympic bronze medalist and world champion Jimmy Pedro. At the Junior Trials, Pedro reflected on the astounding level seen at the cadet and junior divisions—pointing to athletes like Lenny Shinfeld, the Yang brothers, and more who are not only winning at juniors but already medaling at Seniors.
Jimmy was candid about the challenge facing U.S. judo:
Depth at the Senior Level: The same teens are sweeping at both the junior and senior divisions, highlighting the lack of 25–27-year-old competitors.
Developing Pros for LA 2028: “We need to bring the country together to train with a professional staff and a real budget—otherwise we risk wasting this generation of talent.”
Keys to developing our next champions:
Build confidence step by step: Keep juniors competing at their appropriate level—let them win, medal, and develop motivation before throwing them into the senior international circuit.
Invest and unify: Real progress will require professional leadership, fundraising, and a committed nationwide effort—not just isolated club heroics.
On personal longevity:
Pedro’s discipline is legendary—he credits daily training, a healthy balanced diet, and sticking to what works physically for his shape and performance. His outlook: “It’s all about discipline.”
Aaron Cohen (Cohen Brothers Judo, Legacy Builder)
As a coach, club owner, and living legend, Aaron Cohen knows what it takes to build a juggernaut program from the ground up (he and his brother oversee 300+ students between judo and wrestling!). The magic?
Family-first culture: “Our club is a big family—parents, kids, lifelong friends. Most kids won’t go on to become world champions, but everyone builds something meaningful.”
Community and Basics: “Focus on classic standup judo and fundamentals—don’t rush to trendy moves or neglect drilling the basics.”
Epic club activities: From epic Halloween parties with bounce houses and DJs, to multicultural potlucks, Cohen proves that club culture is about more than takedowns.
Word of mouth & social sharing: “One or two parents post on social media, and that energy brings in dozens more.”
He also offered advice to gym owners: prioritize positive culture, regular club events, and a welcoming environment where drama and ego take a back seat to community. Cohen’s message to the national judo community: keep your program fun, family-centered, and fundamentally sound, and you’ll grow a club that lasts.
The Big Picture: What’s Next for U.S. Judo?
These interviews highlight a unique moment:
America’s club scene is more diverse and family-oriented than ever.
Rising juniors are pushing to the very top of the national ladder—some before they’re even out of high school.
But for U.S. judo to reach its potential on the world stage, it’ll take investment, unity, and a focus on long-term athlete development.
Want to help judo grow?
Bring your family to a class—holiday events and parent-kid open mats make a difference.
Support your local clubs and coaches.
Broaden the sport’s appeal on and off the mat—create fun, social environments.
And above all, celebrate the journey at every level: from the bounce house to the world championship podium.
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