Highlights from 2023 Pan Am U15 and U13 Championships at Lima, Peru

Our first-ever international team, consisting of four nationally ranked youth athletes, truly made waves at the Pan American Championships in Lima, Peru, this past weekend. Although this isn’t the first time our athletes have competed internationally, it’s a historic moment for us, as this is the first time we have a team led by our own coach with international credentials.

Our young athletes put up an outstanding performance, winning multiple medals and, above all, displaying their remarkable fighting spirit and skill level. Just think, our humble dojo in Kirkland, WA, was represented by four athletes competing for Team USA on the international stage. A massive thank you to the coach, athletes, and parents who formed this incredible team:

  • Sensei David: Team coach (Renton, WA)
  • Skylor Chan: Athlete (Bellevue, WA)
  • Devin Nishimura: Athlete (Renton, WA)
  • Bonda Erdembilegt: Athlete (Bellevue, WA)
  • Khante Erdembilegt: Athlete (Bellevue, WA)
  • Ebe Erdembilegt: Parent (Bellevue, WA)
  • Ming Chan: Parent (Bellevue, WA)

We also want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the fantastic coaches and volunteers who tirelessly work behind the scenes at our nonprofit dojo. A huge thank you to all the passionate parents who support the dojo in every possible way, providing our kids with opportunities to train, grow, and dream big.

Here are some of our favorite pictures from the tournament:

Devin in action, competing at the Pan Am in Lima, Peru. An incredible photo by USA Judo.
Bonda in action, competing at the Pan Am in Lima, Peru. An incredible photo by USA Judo.
Khante in action, competing at the Pan Am in Lima, Peru. An incredible photo by USA Judo.
Skylor Chan with a beautiful morote on the way to winning gold at the mixed-team U15 event at Pan Am in Lima, Peru.
Skylor Chan claimed gold at the mixed-team U15 event at Pan Am in Lima, Peru. After a rough start at Pan Am, Skylor was able to turn things around despite an injury, winning all three of his matches for Team USA. That’s the spirit we want all our kids to exhibit. Never give up!
The moment to live for. Coach and athlete. Dad and son. David and Devin celebrate winning the bronze medal match for team @usajudoofficial at the Pan Am Games in Lima, Peru. A reward for the hard work and dedication leading to this moment. The next day, Devin went on to win another bronze in the mixed-team event.
The incredible Devin, a Pan Am bronze medalist, and the best looking @usajudoofficial coach/dad, Sensei David. Congrats Devin!!! Fantastic result at your first-ever international competition!
Team WJA, consisting of 4 athletes and led by the mighty Sensei David, is in Lina, Peru, representing @usajudoofficial at Pan Am U15 and U14 Championships.