Hi friends, I need your help!

I’m so proud to share some incredible news — Kuga is now officially a member of the U.S. Karate National Team!

Earlier this month in Texas, he swept through all the preliminary rounds and won silver in the finals, earning his spot on the U.S. team. He is now qualified to compete in the Pan American Championships in Paraguay from August 25–31!

Now comes the tough part — making it all happen. I’m reaching out to ask for help in raising funds to get him there.

The Costs:

The estimated total cost is around $6,000, which includes:

• Team fee: $1,539 (includes hotel for Kuga and his chaperone – that’s me! – registration, coaching, team transport, uniform, T-shirt, and U.S. flag patches)

• Flights: $1,400–$2,000 per person (hopefully less)

• Additional expenses including meals and domestic travel to the U.S. Team Training Camp in Colorado this August

Why This Means So Much:

Kuga is one of the hardest-working kids I believe many of you know. He trains at Goshin Ryu Karate in Brooklyn with Sensei Luis Ruiz 4 times a week. On school days, he goes straight from class to his job as a coach at FAST Sports Camp, and then straight to karate training. (Yes, I’m the full-time driver — I deserve a gold medal too!)

How You Can Help:

If you're a business or individual who can contribute, we would be incredibly grateful. Sponsors can have their logo displayed on Kuga’s competition gi (if permitted) and will receive a personalized thank-you plaque to honor your generosity.

You can also donate via:

Venmo: @yuri-komoto-weber

⏳ We need to confirm his spot on the team within the next 10 days, so any help — no matter the amount — is appreciated more than you know. He WILL BE going to compete in Paraguay no matter how much is raised, and 100% of donations will be used towards Kuga’s karate expenses.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting Kuga’s dream.

Let’s help him represent the U.S. and bring home the gold!

With gratitude, Yuri