WICHITA, Kan.—For the first time ever, a USA Judo National Championship is coming to Kansas. Visit Wichita announced that the city will host the 2026 USA Judo Youth Nationals at the Century II Convention Center’s Bob Brown Expo Hall from March 14–15, 2026, with weigh-ins scheduled for March 13.
“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,” says Corinne Shigemoto, CEO of USA Judo. “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.”
The tournament is expected to attract more than 500 athletes, along with coaches and families, generating nearly $500,000 in direct economic impact, according to Visit Wichita.
“Winning the bid to host the 2026 USA Judo Youth Nationals is a tremendous achievement for Wichita and for the state of Kansas and a testament to Wichita’s growing recognition as a premier host for national sporting events,” says Josh Howell, Visit Wichita’s vice president of sports development. “It’s the first time USA Judo has ever brought a national championship to Kansas—and we’re honored that they chose Wichita. This win reflects the trust national sports organizations have in our city’s ability to deliver first-class sporting experiences.”
The announcement adds to Wichita’s growing list of sports tourism milestones. The city hosted the Prevagen U.S. Figure Skating Championships in January 2025, marking the first time the event was held in Kansas. It will also become the first city in the nation to host the US Youth Soccer National Presidents Cup for three consecutive years from 2026 to 2028. In 2024, Wichita also welcomed the USA Lacrosse Women’s Collegiate Lacrosse Associates (WCLA) National Championship, which is another first for the state.
“There is tremendous momentum when it comes to hosting sporting events in Wichita,” Howell says. “From the ice to the mats to the soccer and lacrosse fields, we’re proving that Wichita can compete with—and win against—much larger markets. Every event we bring to Kansas fuels local pride, supports our economy, and helps showcase Wichita as a top-tier sports city.”
Tournament registration details, hotel information, and event logistics will be announced in the coming weeks.
