Team USA Wins Gold in Under-18 International Team Event at 2019 British Open

Osu! In October 2019, Team USA traveled to London to compete at the British Kyokushin Karate (BKK) Open, one of the most prestigious Kyokushin tournaments in Europe. This marked the first time in many years that a junior team from the United States competed at the British Open, and they made history in the Under-18 International Team Event, earning 1st Place over teams from England (2nd) and Wales (3rd).

The young fighters represented both USA-IFK and IFK Fight Affiliate dojos, and demonstrated not only strong technique and strategy, but the true spirit of Kyokushin through their humility, teamwork, and perseverance.

Team USA Fighters:

• Elijah Pallmann – IFK Rochester

• Daniel Waage – Fighting Spirit Karate (IFK Fight Affiliate)

• Tuari Schenker – Fighting Spirit Karate (IFK Fight Affiliate)

• Reggie Gold – Fighting Spirit Karate (IFK Fight Affiliate)

• Ryan Kraus – Fighting Spirit Karate (IFK Fight Affiliate)

• Lyric Schenker – Fighting Spirit Karate (IFK Fight Affiliate)

Team Leadership:

• President: Shihan Mike Monaco

• Vice President: Shihan Greg Stokelin

• Head Coach: Shidoshi Sean Schenker

• Assistant Head Coach: Senpai Jonah Schenker

• Assistant Coaches: Sensei David Sheets, Senpai John Halstead, Senpai Charlie Gent

• Lead Fight Trainers: Sensei Clai Henry, Sensei Kamil Maras

Congratulations to all the athletes, coaches, and families who helped make this historic result possible. We are proud of what this team achieved, and we look forward to seeing what the next generation of Kyokushin fighters brings to the world stage.

Team USA — 1st Place! OSU!