USA Judo will bring the 2026 Youth National Championships to Wichita, Kansas, the first time the national governing body will hold a national championship in the state. The event will be staged March 14–15 at the Bob Brown Expo Hall at Century II in downtown Wichita.
The Youth Nationals attract more than 600 athletes ages 5–20 who vie for national championships and the opportunity to represent Team USA in international competition.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Visit Wichita to bring a national championship to Kansas for the first time in our organization’s history,” said Corinne Shigemoto, USA Judo’s CEO. “Wichita is fast becoming one of the country’s premier destinations for sporting events, and we’re looking forward to welcoming young judoka from around the country, as well as their friends and family, for what promises to be an incredible weekend, on and off the mat.”
Wichita was recently named Best Sports-Event Host City at the 2025 SportsTravel Awards, presented by SportsTravel.
“Hosting the 2026 USA Judo Youth Nationals is a proud moment for Wichita and the state of Kansas,” said Josh Howell, vice president of sports development at Visit Wichita. “To bring a USA Judo national championship to our city and state for the first time is a testament to Wichita’s growing recognition as a premier host for national sporting events. We’re ready to welcome athletes, families and fans from across the country.”
The Bob Brown Expo Hall will serve as the primary competition venue, with additional meeting and office spaces within Century II supporting event operations.
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