Member News

March 6, 2006

Swain Sports International Named Official Mat Supplier of USA Judo

USA Judo is pleased to announce Swain Sports International as the official mat supplier of USA Judo.  As USA Judo’s newest sponsor, Swain Sports will provide the mats at all of USA Judo’s major events over the next four years, including the USA Senior National Championships, U.S. Open and USA Judo Junior Olympic National Championships. 

“We all would like to thank Mike Swain and Swain Sports for their support of USA Judo in becoming our official mat supplier,” said USA Judo President Dr. Ron Tripp (Norman, Okla.)  “Mike was not only one of the best judo players in U.S. history, but he also has been an excellent coach who’s never hesitated to step up and give back to the sport throughout the years.”

Founded by Mike Swain (San Jose, Calif.), Swain made history in 1987 becoming the first man from the Western Hemisphere to win the World Judo Championships. A four-time Olympian, he went on to win three more World and Olympic medals and coach the 1996 Olympic Team. To his credit, Swain Sports has sponsored many key events in the past including the 1996 Olympic Games.

Currently, Swain helps coach the San Jose State university Judo program and has set up a scholarship fund for up and coming judo athletes.    

“Judo has been a big part of my life and I am very excited to help out USA Judo,” Swain said. “As a sponsor now and in the past, it is my intention to help as many young judo athletes accomplish their dreams in the sport of judo and in life.”  

Swain Sports International is one of the top suppliers of martial arts mats in the United States and was the official mat supplier of the 1996 Games.  Swain Sports International provides some of the highest quality tatami mats in the industry as well as folding mats, puzzle mats, wall pads, pole pads, home martial arts mats and training and certification DVDs.  For more information on Swain Sports International, visit www.swainmats.com.