Wintrust Sports Complex to Host 2025 USA Judo Junior Olympic National and International Championships

The 2025 USA Judo Junior Olympic National and International Championships will take place at Wintrust Sports Complex in Bedford Park, Illinois, from June 20–22.

The event will bring together young judo athletes, ages 5­–20, to compete for national titles on the path to future Olympic competitions. The event will feature 1,000 athletes competing across multiple age divisions, with an estimated 2,500 spectators expected to attend.

“USA Judo is excited to bring the 2025 Junior Olympics to the Chicagoland area for the first time in the event’s history,” said Keith Bryant, USA Judo chief executive officer. “The Wintrust Sports Complex in Bedford Park is adjacent to Midway Airport and offers numerous nearby amenities and a variety of hotel choices. The nation’s top young judo talent will be on display in Bedford Park next summer as the next generation of Olympians set their sights on the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028 and beyond.”

Previously held in Pittsburgh, the Junior Olympic National and International Championships allow athletes to gain experience at the national level while earning rankings and potential qualification for future international competitions.

“We are thrilled to welcome the USA Judo Junior Olympic Championships to Bedford Park and provide a world-class venue for these outstanding young athletes,” said Jennifer Quinlan, assistant general manager of Wintrust Sports Complex. “This is the first time the event will be held in the Chicagoland area and we look forward to providing an exceptional experience for both competitors and spectators alike.”

Wintrust Arena is no stranger to hosting youth and amateur sporting events. The venue features eight basketball courts, 16 volleyball courts, a full-service restaurant and bar, an arcade and a laser tag arena.

“The momentum of Wintrust Sports Complex in Bedford Park and its partners continues growing,” said Mary Patchin, Visit Chicago Southland president and chief executive officer. “National sports championships to Bedford Park and the Chicago Southland region impact so many of the businesses, visitors, and residents. This Olympiad will be no different.