Ben, 15, is a 2nd degree black belt from WI. He is currently ranked in NASKA Top 10 for his age and hopes to have his own studio one day.
Thank you for generously supporting Ben in this year’s competition. Your support helps empower the V Foundation for Cancer Research and the Why Not You Foundation in their respective missions to save lives and empower today's youth to become tomorrow's leaders.
Ben has never followed a "traditional" path. From the day he was born he has had a mind of his own. When he saw the Disney show "Kickin' It" - he was hooked on martial arts. Fast forward a decade and he is now competing in sport martial arts at the highest level. What Ben loves most about sport martial arts is that it is a small, connected group of athletes. There are not many who compete at the highest level. And, let's be honest, karate is cool!
Ben has been extremely lucky to have been surrounded by instructors who always saw the potential in him - even when he didn't! Ben most looks up to: Ben Jones - one of the world's best martial artists and an instructor at Infinity Martial Arts; Dawson Holt - the worlds best sword martial artist and Ben's coach. Mr. Mike Welch - Diamond Nationals Hall of Famer, owner of Infinity Martial Arts and team coach. Noell Jellison and Patrick Olson, teammates and coaches.
Without question - when Ben tested for and earned his First Degree Black Belt. It was in 2020 and was postponed by COVID. And then only a few of athletes could train at a time, and we had to find other local spaces to do candidate Zoom classes. But we all persevered. It was a five hour test - and he was smiling the entire time. Ben loves this sport and he wants to share it with others!
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like Youth Athlete of the Year, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.