We’re thrilled to share the exciting results from the 2025 USA Open & Junior International Cup, where 15 remarkable Para-Karate athletes represented United Cerebral Palsy of the Inland Empire (UCPIE), LEAPS Karina Melgar, and Seiden Juku in a powerful demonstration of inclusion, strength, and global sportsmanship.
Held earlier this month, this prestigious international event welcomed competitors from around the world, and our Para-Karate team stood tall among them—bringing home an outstanding 22 medals in total: 9 Gold, 3 Silver, and 10 Bronze.
This event was not just a competition—it was the culmination of a journey that began months ago with training, team-building, and fundraising to ensure every athlete could attend. Through community generosity and the creation of a dedicated GoFundMe campaign, we successfully rallied the support needed to help these athletes and their families travel to Las Vegas to compete.
As part of our public awareness efforts, UCPIE President & CEO John Sprogis and Sensei Tamara appeared on KESQ’s Eye on the Desert with Patrick Evans, where they shared the story behind the para-karate team, the partnership between UCPIE and LEAPS, and the incredible impact these adaptive athletes are making.
This journey wouldn’t have been possible without Sensei Tamara’s unwavering leadership and the support of families, donors, and advocates who continue to push for inclusion in sports. The athletes demonstrated discipline, courage, and skill in every match, and their victories represent more than medals—they represent a growing movement of Life Without Limits.
Meet the Champions:
- Jamie Duncan – Bronze
- Sierra Duncan ELITE – Bronze
- Issac Pugh – Gold
- Adam Nieto – Gold
- Matthew Enroth – Silver
- Keyla Diaz – Gold
- Tabitha Bowen – Gold
- Kyle Bowen – Bronze
- Mario Munoz – Gold
- Mario Lopez – Gold & Bronze
- Rawan Skurky – Gold
- Andres Gonzalez – Gold
- Vincent Laxson – Bronze
- Boston Roco – Gold & Silver
- Leon Tanatawi – Bronze
Why It Matters:
The Para-Karate division is more than a competition—it’s a space where athletes with disabilities can show their strength, focus, and competitive spirit on a world stage. It also reflects UCPIE’s ongoing mission to support inclusive, life-enriching programs that build independence, confidence, and opportunity.
This journey, from organizing to traveling, competing to celebrating, has been a true example of what collaboration, dedication, and belief in potential can accomplish.
We’re proud to stand alongside our partners at LEAPS Karina Melgar and Seiden Juku and we extend heartfelt congratulations to every athlete who trained, traveled, and gave it their all. You’ve made the entire Inland Empire proud!
Follow along for more impact stories and inclusive sports milestones in our upcoming events and monthly newsletter updates.
#UCPIE #ParaKarate #USAOpen2025 #LifeWithoutLimits #InclusionMatters #KarateChampions #TeamUCPIE #SeidenJuku #LEAPS #EyeOnTheDesert #KESQ #PatrickEvans
