YULF Launches Two New Programs to Empower Youth & Female Judoka

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: info@yulf.org
Date: July 13, 2025

SAN JOSE, CA — The Yoshihiro Uchida Legacy Foundation (YULF) is proud to announce the launch of two new programs: the Youth Judo Project and the Women’s Judo Initiative. These initiatives represent a major step forward in YULF’s mission to build opportunity and access through the sport of judo, honoring the legacy of legendary judo coach, Yosh Uchida.

The Youth Judo Project focuses on providing youth judoka with access to training, mentorship and competition expenses support. It aims to remove barriers for families with limited means, creating pathways for young athletes to develop discipline, confidence and community.

“I’m absolutely overjoyed to announce the launch of the Youth Judo Project,” said Marti Malloy, Olympic medalist and President of YULF. “As someone who grew up with limited resources and relied heavily on community support and fundraising to chase my dreams, this initiative is very close to my heart. We launched this Foundation in honor of Coach Uchida, and I know he would be proud to see us expanding support for young judo athletes in this way.”

The Women’s Judo Initiative is designed to uplift and connect female judoka through leadership development, shared experiences and a strong support network. It’s a platform to help women in judo find their voice, strengthen their skills, and reach new heights both in sport and life. The program will also offer financial support for female athletes facing financial barriers to gaining training experiences and accessing high-level training opportunities.

“This program is deeply personal to me,” Malloy said. “As one of only a few American women to win an Olympic medal in judo, I know how powerful support, leadership and camaraderie can be. Our goal is to take what I’ve learned and what other women judoka have lived and create a space where female athletes feel seen, heard and empowered to achieve anything they set their minds to.”

Both programs reflect YULF’s growing vision to use judo as a global force for good. By expanding access and investing in the next generation, the YULF continues to build a more inclusive and impactful future through the values of judo.

If these initiatives inspire you, we invite you to make a donation to help us grow and sustain this work. Every contribution fuels opportunity.

Learn more & donate HERE.