USA Judo Returns to Spokane for 2026 Junior Olympic National Championships
Share:
by Bill Kellick
(Colorado Springs, CO) – Three years after playing host to the 2023 USA Judo Senior National Championships, Spokane, Wash., welcomes the National Governing Body back to town for the 2026 Junior Olympic National Championships. An expected 900 athletes, aged 5-20, representing the future of American judo, will compete in the three-day event at The Podium Powered by STCU, June 19-21.
The prestigious USA Judo Junior Olympics will not only crown national champions in numerous divisions and weight categories but also serves as the trial event for the 2026 Cadet World Championships (for athletes age 14-17) in Guayaquil, Ecuador, Aug. 20-23, and the 2026 Junior World Championships (for athletes under the age of 21) in Amman, Jordan, Oct. 22-25.
“We are very excited to return to Spokane next year for our amazing Junior Olympic National Championships,” said USA Judo CEO Corinne Shigemoto. “The city of Spokane, Spokane Sports, and the fantastic venue were the perfect hosts for our Senior National Championships in 2023, and we look forward to some great competition from our young stars and for our members to experience all that Spokane has to offer.”
Spokane is one of the fastest-growing sports destinations in the Pacific Northwest, known for its hospitality, walkable downtown, and easy access to world-class venues. The city has built a strong reputation for hosting national and international competitions and delivering a top-tier athlete and visitor experience.
The Podium powered by STCU is a 135,000 square foot multi-sport complex overlooking downtown Spokane. The venue features flexible competition space, world-class amenities, and the operational capacity to host major championship events year-round. Its location steps from hotels, restaurants, and Riverfront Park makes it an ideal home for national governing bodies and large-scale youth events.
“Athletes and families bring an incredible energy to Spokane, and we are proud to welcome USA Judo back to The Podium,” added Spokane Sports’ CEO Ashley Blake. “This event gives young competitors the chance to shine on a national stage. Spokane is a city shows up for sports, and we look forward to building on our partnership and creating a memorable Junior Olympic National Championships for everyone involved.”
Tournament host hotel details, participant registration information and other tournament details will be released in the coming weeks.
ABOUT SPOKANE SPORTS
Spokane Sports strengthens our community through the power of sports. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we create, bid on, and host impactful sporting events that drive economic growth, inspire connection, and enhance community pride. Guided by our core values of a people-first culture, innovation, authenticity, integrity, and community impact, we deliver exceptional experiences for athletes, fans, and partners. To learn more, visit spokanesports.org.
