Our Federation is built on the dedication of clubs, coaches, volunteers, and supporters. Together with world-class athletes, we uphold and advance SAMBO by promoting it nationally and teaching its values and techniques to students of all ages, ensuring its continued growth for future generations.
The American Amateur Sambo Federation (AASF) was founded in 1993 by a group of enthusiasts led by Lenny Polyakov and Robert Laudicina. Their vision was to build a home for Sambo in the United States, and over the years that dream has grown into a thriving community.
In 2005, Dr. David Rudman was elected President, spearheading the Federation’s reorganization and its recognition as a non-profit organization. Just a few years later, in 2008, Dr. Rudman was elected President of the International Sambo Federation (FIAS), while Dr. Jack Kogan took over as President of the AASF. Since 2017, Vitaly Zaslavsky has continued this leadership as the current President.
Our story has always been driven by coaches, volunteers, and contributors — the true foundation of the Federation. Alongside world-class athletes representing Sambo on international stages, dedicated coaches in clubs across the country share their expertise, passion, and time to teach students of all ages this unique martial art.
Sambo in America is not just about competition — it’s about community, tradition, and the shared belief in the power of the sport to shape character and inspire generations.
