Region 15 Student

MIDDLEBURY, CT — Hard work, discipline, and dedication paid off on the national stage for Region 15 student Kataliena Sophia Prior, who returned to Connecticut decorated with top honors from the recent Tang Soo Do National Championship in Katy, Texas.

A straight-A student at Long Meadow Elementary School, Kataliena balances her academic excellence and extra studies in math with violin lessons and rigorous training out of Middlebury Martial Arts. Known among her peers, instructors, and fellow competitors for her warm heart and encouraging spirit, Kataliena brings as much kindness and sportsmanship to the mat as she does focus and determination.

Competing against top martial artists from across the country in traditional Korean karate, she delivered a dominant performance, bringing home two Gold medals and one Silver medal:

• Gold Medal: Sparring
• Gold Medal: Forms
• Silver Medal: Traditional Weapons (Bo Staff)

This national triumph builds on an impressive international competitive record for the local athlete, who also earned two Gold medals in Forms and Sparring at the 2025 World Championship in Inverness, Scotland.

In addition to the intense competition, the event offered a powerful learning experience. Beyond taking the podium, Kataliena spent the tournament cheering on other athletes, observing high-level performances from martial arts academies nationwide, and forming new friendships with fellow competitors.

"Watching her hard work, dedication, and kindness pay off in school, music, and on a national martial arts stage is an incredible moment as a parent," said her family. "Training at Middlebury Martial Arts under Master Virginia Folger has been instrumental in her growth. The feedback, direction, and constant support from Master Folger, along with the other Masters and Dans, made all the difference in preparing Kataliena for a national event."

🥋 Q&A with National Champion Kataliena Sophia Prior

Q: What was the most exciting part of competing at the Tang Soo Do National Championship?

A: Winning the medals was amazing, but my favorite part was making new friends from different martial arts schools and getting to see so many incredible performances!

Q: You do so much—straight-A schoolwork, math, violin, and martial arts! How do you balance it all?

A: I just focus on trying my best at whatever I'm doing in that moment. Martial arts actually help me stay focused when I'm studying or practicing the violin!

Q: What is your favorite event to compete in?

A: I love Sparring and Forms but working with the Bo staff for Weapons is always really fun and exciting because it takes a lot of practice to get the movements smooth.

Q: How did it feel representing Connecticut at Nationals in Texas?

A: It was an honor! Traveling to Katy, Texas with my team and representing Region 15 made the whole experience super special.

Q: What went through your mind when you stepped onto the mat at the National Championship in Katy, Texas?

A: I was a little nervous at first because competitors came from all over the country, but as soon as the match started, I focused on my training, listened to my instructors, and gave it everything I had!

Q: You took home two Gold medals (Sparring & Forms) and a Silver medal (Bo Staff). Which division was the most challenging?

A: Sparring was definitely the most intense! Every match was fast and required full concentration, but winning Gold made all those hours of training at Middlebury Martial Arts completely worth it.

Q: What was your favorite memory from your time in Katy, Texas outside of competing?

A: Hands down, diving into the incredible Texas BBQ! Trying the delicious, smoky ribs and authentic brisket was amazing—Texas definitely has way more food variety than what we have back home! Plus, experiencing the glorious wonder there is Buc-ee's! loved exploring historical buildings with my parents and learning cool local history together. Between the amazing food, the history, and family time, Texas was an absolute blast!

Q: What advice would you give to other kids who want to try martial arts or find their own 'inner champion'?

A: Don't be afraid to try! Work hard, listen to your instructors, and always be kind to others along the way. Everyone at Middlebury Martial Arts is super welcoming, so you'll feel right at home!

Q: What would you tell someone who wants to start martial arts at Middlebury Martial Arts?

A: Just step onto the mat and try! You don't have to be a champion when you start—Master Folger and the instructors will help you unlock your inner champion every step of the way.

Inspired to discover your own potential? Whether you are looking to build confidence, discipline, or step onto the mat for the first time, you can start your own journey and discover your inner champion alongside Kataliena at Middlebury Martial Arts.

Middlebury Martial Arts

📍 1255 Middlebury Rd, Middlebury, CT 06762

📞 (203) 527-5547