Help us go to the Wado-Ryu National Championship in Tokyo

My name is Damien. I have been training in Wado Ryu Karate since I was 12 years old in Ahwatukee, Arizona at Mountainside Martial Arts. I earned my first-degree black belt when I was 17 and have been competing since I was 15 years old. When I was younger, I had an opportunity to go and compete in Japan, but timing and life unfortunately prevented me from making the trip. I have continued to train since then and have since earned my second and third degree black belt. While traveling to California to attend a seminar with our style’s Grand master, the grandson of the creator of our style, I was invited by him to come to Tokyo and compete in his tournament, receiving a second chance to go. I jumped at the opportunity and with that created a team of other kratekas at our dojo to train and travel to Japan to compete in the tournament. I accepted a position as one of the coaches of the team as well as being a competitor. I will have the opportunity to fight in multiple divisions, one being on team USA, perform kata as well as kihon kumite plus coach a team of individuals, one of them being my daughter. Her name is Raelyn, she is 9 years old and a current Brown Belt. This is her first year competing and she has already shown so much progress and ability. It’s so exciting to watch her improve and be able to share the experience with her. Competing at such a young age in Japan will be such an amazing experience and growth opportunity for her Martial Arts training, which she also trains in Muay Thai as well. My wife, Shauna, has stepped into the role of fundraising. She has helped put together multiple fundraising events, including a Women’s self-defense class the coaches taught. She has also worked extremely hard to get team sponsors, design a shirt, and of course have them made and sell them.

We have spent countless hours training and will continue to do so up until the date of the tournament. This is an amazing opportunity for us and we cannot wait to go and represent our dojo, state, and country. We would love some financial help in getting to Tokyo. Some extra cheering wouldn't hurt either. Thank you!