Sasha Rodriguez Athlete

There's this rush that can only be obtained from performing. Knowing that everyone in the room is analyzing your every move, criticizing your way of doing things- from the way that you kick, all the way up to the hair that's out of place on your head. This is the kind of thrill that I live for, one that I train to acquire. My name is Sasha Rodriguez, and you're here to accompany me as I challenge myself to become one of the best.

For as long as I can remember, my life had revolved around school and my grades.  I woke up, went to school, went home, did my homework, ate, and off to bed I went!  I never attended the daily hangout sessions outside with my friends, sleepovers, parties, etc.  I was a sheltered child.  Still, I never once became timid, and resorted to using my time “wisely” by keeping my grandmother on her toes with the help of my troublesome cousins.  However, all of this changed the day my father decided I needed to watch a few Kung Fu movies; thus, unleashing a talent I would pursue so fervently in the years proceeding.

Soon after, my parents enrolled me into a karate program at the age of 7.  The desire to aquire more knowlege and train was second nature to me.  Somehow, I managed to memorize many of the Japanese terminology and the techniques to go with them in a short amount of time.  However, it wasn't until I turned 11 that I really magnified my love for the art.  I began to compete locally in Queens and Long Island, winning and losing many times.  Fast forward a couple of years later (in 2011) when I recieved a medal at my first national event within the United States. After getting a taste of victory, I wanted more.  I had to win.  So, in 2014, I took it a step further and my coach put forth the opportunity to become apart of the Junior National Team; and so, I began to compete and train internationally in places like Belgium, France, Germany, Dominican Republic, Hawaii, and Mexico. My new goal: become one of the first Karate-ka- a person who studies karate- to participate in the Olympics.

In 2012, I was inspired to become an elite athlete after my instructor, Jose Guerrero, gave me the opportunity to spectate world class athletes representing their countries and fighting for a medal- both figuratively and literally- at the  World Championships in Paris, France.

Starting this journey was not an easy decision, but I know it will be one of the most impactful things I will ever initiate. The sacrifices that need to be made - my free time, money, vacations, parties, education- by both my parents and I are immeasurable. Regardless, I decided to accept this responsibility and followed the guidance offered to me by my instructor.

This goal of becoming an athlete of elite level has placed a huge financial burden upon my family alone. As time goes on, the finances for trips, training sessions, monthly tuitions, and equipment increases immensely: none of this would be accomplished without raising the necessary funds - and that’s where you all come in!

As a competitor, I am individually responsible for the vast majority of team and operational expenses. The 2016-2017 season has already begun, which has required me to jumpstart my spending to get everything set up. This has become increasingly difficult to uphold financially because I am preparing to enter college and travelling internationally to senior Premeir League events.

Between now and 2020, I would need to raise $100,000 if given the opportunity to successfully execute this dream as a young woman and support my team. While this may seem like a hefty amount, I’m confident that with your help, I can meet and even surpass this goal. I have created a plan that will divide this sum into phases so that it can strategically be achieved.

I will need to fund things such as:
- Gis  for practice and competition
- Competition Belts
- Cost of a nutritionist
- Cost of a private trainer 
- Transportation, lodging, travel expenses for myself and my coach
- Athletic  gear (shoes, jackets, travel bags, etc) for myself and my coach
- Team Competition gear (warm-up suits, uniforms, practice gear, etc)
- Athlete insurance for myself 
- Misc. (registration and membership fees)

 Together, we can demonstrate that nothing is impossible with a little faith, support and willingness to persevere.

Thank you for taking the time to read this campaign! I am eternally grateful for all your support! Please share to get the word out about this