HAJIME: Inside USA Judo Interview Series | Episode 18 with Oleksandr Nyzhynk

HAJIME: Inside USA Judo Interview Series | Episode 18 with Oleksandr Nyzhynk

In this episode of the Inside USA Judo Interview Series, host Hannah Martin speaks with Oleksandr Nyzhnyk, the 2024 Junior Pan American Champion and two-time Senior National Champion in the -90 kg division. Born in Ukraine, Sasha moved to the United States at just 10 years old without speaking English. Through judo, he found a way to connect with others, build friendships, and adapt to a new life. In this conversation, Sasha shares his journey into the sport, what it's like living and training as a resident athlete at the US Performance Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the goals driving him toward the highest level of international competition. From overcoming challenges as a young immigrant to chasing his Olympic dream, this is a conversation you won't want to miss with one of the brightest rising stars in American judo. 🥋 Subscribe for more athlete interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and exclusive content from USA Judo.

HAJIME: Inside USA Judo Interview Series | Episode 17 with Emily Jaspe

In this episode of the INSIDE USA JUDO Interview Series, host Hannah Martin sits down with Emily Jaspe, one of the brightest young talents in American judo. Currently ranked No. 1 in the world in the Junior -63kg category, Emily is a former Cadet and Junior Pan American Champion and the 2026 USA Judo Senior National Champion. As one of USA Judo's rising stars, she continues to build an impressive resume on both the national and international stage. In this interview, Emily shares how she first got started in judo, reflects on some of her favorite competition memories, and discusses the lessons she has learned along the way. She also talks about her future goals, what motivates her to keep improving, and her dream of one day representing Team USA at the Olympic Games. Don't miss this conversation with one of the most exciting young athletes in American judo today.

HAJIME: Inside USA Judo Interview Series | Episode 16 with Dominic Rodriguez

In this episode of the INSIDE USA JUDO Interview Series, host Hannah Martin speaks with Dominic Rodriguez, currently ranked No. 17 in the world in the -81kg category. A 2 time Pan American Champion and 3 time National Champion, Dominic has quickly established himself as one of the top young athletes in American judo. Training out of the Kitsusai National Training Center, he is currently fighting for a place on the 2028 Olympic Team and continues to make his mark on the international stage. In this interview, Dominic reflects on his journey, the mindset required to compete at the highest level, and the lessons he has learned while balancing pressure, expectations, and rapid success at a young age.

HAJIME: Inside USA Judo Interview Series | Episode 15 with Israel Hernandez

In this episode of the INSIDE USA JUDO Interview Series, host Hannah Martin speaks with Israel Hernández, 2-time Olympic bronze medalist and Head Coach of the United States Performance Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. A highly respected figure in international judo, Israel reflects on his beginnings in Cuba, where he first stepped onto the tatami and worked his way up to become a member of the Cuban National Team. He shares insights into his competitive journey and how he won his first Olympic Bronze Media. Now based in the United States, Israel continues leading and developing athletes as a coach. As Head Coach of the United States Performance Center, he brings a wealth of experience and a clear philosophy centered on discipline, adaptability, and building strong competitive character. Through his story, Israel highlights the importance of mindset, resilience, and evolving within the sport, both as an athlete and as a mentor to the next generation. To find out more about the resident program: https://www.usajudo.com/national-resident-training-center-team [https://www.usajudo.com/national-resident-training-center-team] Comment if you would like us to have a second interview with Israel 👇

HAJIME: Inside USA Judo Interview Series | Episode 14 with Janine Cotti

In this episode of the INSIDE USA JUDO Interview Series, host Hannah Martin speaks with Janine Cotti, former USA Judo National Team member, two time National Champion, and 2010 Pan American Championships Silver Medalist. A respected figure both on and off the mat, Janine reflects on her competitive career at the highest level of American judo and the lessons that shaped her as an athlete. Now a registered dietitian, Janine has transitioned her passion for performance into helping the next generation of judoka. Working closely with athletes, she focuses on practical nutrition strategies and building a healthier, more sustainable relationship with food to support both performance and long term well being. Comment, Like, and Subscribe to stay plugged into the stories behind USA Judo’s community.