Robert “Bobby” Berland made history at the 1984 Olympic Games as the first American judoka to advance to the finals, earning a silver medal in the 86kg middleweight division. A two-time Olympian, he also competed in the 1988 Games. Prior to his Olympic success, Berland won bronze at the 1983 World Championships and secured a silver medal at the 1983 Pan American Games. A dominant force in U.S. judo, he claimed five national titles (1981, 1982, 1983, 1986, 1987).

A graduate of San Jose State University, Berland was a two-time national collegiate champion before making his mark on the international stage. After retiring from competition, he remained dedicated to the sport as both a coach and leader. He was a member of the coaching staff for the 2004 U.S. Olympic Judo Team in Athens and later served as a board member for the Chicago 2016 Olympic Bid effort, focused on bringing the Olympic Games to his hometown. His contributions to judo earned him a place in the USA Judo Hall of Fame.