From USA Judo:
Team USA put on a show in Rio; With a Gold, Silver and a 7th Place win, USA ranked 5th overall at the Judo Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Click here to watch replays of Olympic judo action.
“It’s amazing the success that USA Judo athletes have enjoyed these last two Olympic Games; to finish 5th in the world, beating Brazil in Brazil, as well as Cuba’s well respected Judo program, speaks to the smart planning and return on investment of our National coaches.” – Jose Rodriguez, USA Judo CEO.
The 2016 team represented the United States well, giving their best Olympic performance to date.
“We shocked and impressed the entire world once again with our judo team.” Says Jimmy Pedro. “I didn’t think we would be able to outdo our performance in London. To have two athletes make the finals in the Olympic games in absolutely amazing.”
Head Coach, Jimmy Pedro is pleased with how the team came together in Rio. “They acted as a family. They won together. They lost together. The entire team was competitive in every match. The team put up a good fight. They were courageous and excited to be here. The whole team is happy.” Says Jimmy Pedro.
Jose Rodriguez, who has been CEO at USA Judo for 11 years, is excited with how much the entire team and staff has accomplished the past two quadrennials.
“I want to not only congratulate Kayla, Travis, and their coaches, but each and every one of our athletes whose strong shoulders our Olympic medalist have been carried!” Says Jose Rodriguez. “This is a Team USA Judo success and every member shares in this historic success.”
Not only did the athletes make history with their performance, judo in the United States was represented in the media as never before. For the first time, Judo received LIVE TV coverage.
All Judo competitions were available to watch on NBC live stream. Both Travis Stevens and Kayla Harrison’s matches were broadcasted on LIVE TV on NBC Sports Network and MSNBC.
Additionally, Leo White, USA Judo Coach Director on the Board of Directors, was invited to commentate on NBC Sports Network. See his judo recap story here:http://www.nbcolympics.com/video/leo-white-kayla-harrison-has-historic-day-rio
Overall, this was great success for Judo in the United States. Great work Team USA!
Konan Judo 
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