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From the Mats of Colorado to a National Title

MA1 Robert Yamashita holding his gold medal

July 10, 2026 | Story by Naomi Wilkins | Commander, Navy Installations Command | Fleet and Family Readiness

Master-at-Arms First Class (MA1) Robert Yamashita recently secured the gold at the US Open Masters B division for Greco-Roman Wrestling. Representing the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard under the All-Navy Wrestling Team, he competed in the 78-kilogram division, and dominated his matches in a field of tough competitors. Yamashita outscored his final three opponents, taking the championship with a 12-1 victory. Currently stationed at Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, his recent win is just the latest milestone in a lifetime dedicated to the disciplined world of wrestling and martial arts.

Yamashita’s journey began in Colorado, where he started competing at just four years old. Guided by his father, a hardworking farmer who always supported his son’s passion, he developed a formidable foundation at the Northglenn Judo Club. Joining the Navy in 2006, Yamashita combined his desire to travel the world with his competitive spirit. His talents were quickly recognized within the Navy, earning him a place representing the Armed Forces at locations such as Brazil, India, Kazakhstan and South Korea. 

Yamashita credits his success to an intense, self-driven work ethic that “leaves no room for shortcuts,” he says. Using Kobe Bryant as inspiration, he channels the “Mamba Mentality" and maintains an unshakeable focus on preparation. To maintain his competitive edge, Yamashita trains up to five times a weekend when off duty. During intense training camps, he often wakes up at 4:30 a.m. just to eat before a 6:00 a.m. practice or puts on his shoes for a grueling four-mile run at midnight to maintain his weight limits. “I need to do extra. No one had to tell me to do extra, but I really wanted to win,” he says proudly.  

His motto, "train hard at practice and party at the tournament," allows him to step onto the mat relaxed. He also shares this wisdom as a coach, leader and mentor for the Kinnick High School wrestling team on base, inspiring the next generation.

While Yamashita's early career was heavily focused on personal victory, his mindset has shifted toward gratitude. Today, every time he steps onto the mat, he thinks of his late father. Yamashita fondly remembers his father as a resilient, fun-loving "goofball" and an amazing man who celebrated his son's efforts unconditionally. 

Looking to the future, MA1 Yamashita hopes to continue competing and coaching. “More than winning, my ultimate goal is to inspire my teammates and witness their joy when they finally achieve their own victories”, he says.

Through All-Navy Sports, Sailors have the opportunity to pursue athletic excellence while representing the Navy, building connections across the fleet and strengthening skills that support performance both in competition and in service. Visit the All-Navy Sports webpage to learn more about the program.

Master-at-Arms First Class (MA1) Robert Yamashita posing in his wrestling uniform

Master-at-Arms First Class (MA1) Robert Yamashita celebrating after winning a wrestling match

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This is an Official U.S. Navy Website Commander, Navy Installations Command.

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