On Saturday, April 27th at Hendrickson High School in Pflugerville, TX, almost 700 students across 59 schools competed at the Kickstart Kids State Championship. The event was a culmination of a year’s worth of practice, dedication, and performances from more than 9,500 students in the Kickstart Kids program. 

In order to compete at the State Championship, students had to first advance in one of two qualifier tournaments earlier in the year by placing in the top 3 of their respective divisions of sparring, individual or team kata, or weapons. This achievement then earned them the opportunity to compete at their Regional Championship against the top competitors in their area. Students once again had to place in the top 3 to earn their spot at the State Championship.

The State Championship featured the pinnacle of competitors across the program and that was made clear by the level of performances throughout the day. Parents, friends, and supporters alike packed the Hendrickson High School gymnasium to cheer on the students. The tournament continues to grow every year along with the expansion of the organization which is now held in 14 districts across the state of Texas. 

The event started off with an exceptional karate demonstration by the Meyerland Middle School Unified Team which is part of the Special Olympics initiative that works to create opportunities for students with disabilities. Guests were captivated by the group’s teamwork which was just established this year by their instructor Ms. Chelsea Clark and Special Olympics Texas. 

The individual competitions were dominated by two Southeast Texas schools in particular. Stafford Middle/Intermediate took home a staggering 50 medals in total with 20 students receiving a first place ring. Dulles Middle School was right on their heels with 42 total medals and 19 first places. Park Crest was the top performing Central Texas school with 29 total medals and Bush leading the North Texas pack with 7 medals. 

Four advanced demonstration teams competed for the right to be called “Best in State”. Rodeo Palms Junior High from Southeast Texas, led by their instructor Mr. Caesar Paz, took the honor by placing first among the teams. Kelly Lane Middle School, Dulles Middle School, and Vivian Field Middle School turned in amazing performances as well (watch the video). All 4 teams earned their State Championship spots by winning their regional demo team competitions, Martial Arts Mania/Extravaganza, earlier in the year. 

Overall top individual performers were awarded as State Grand Champions (pictured above left to right). Beginner Grand Champion was Gustavo P. from Hamilton Middle School. Intermediate Grand Champion was Aaron P. from Stafford. Advanced Grand Champion was Ernesto Rocha from Burbank Middle School. Black Belt Grand Champion was Colton S. from Park Crest and Adult Black Belt Grand Champion was Noe Sanchez from Stevenson Middle School. 

Kickstart Kids is extremely proud of the hard work put in by each and every student that participated in this year’s tournament circuit. Thank you to all of the instructors, parents, volunteers, and staff that helped provide a rewarding, competitive environment for these budding martial artists to thrive.