Neighbor News
Local Youth Inspires Through Martial Arts Excellence
Region 15 Student- Local Youth Achieves National Martial Arts Glory, Inspiring the Next Generation
Region 15-Long Meadow Elementary Student In a phenomenal display of dedication and skill, local student Kataliena Prior recently captured major honors at the Tang Soo Do National Championship in Katy, Texas. She brings home gold medals in both Sparring and Forms, as well as a silver medal in the Weapon of Choice (Bo Staff) category.
This adds to her amazing record from the 2025 World Championships in Scotland, where she brought home double gold in both forms and sparring!
Kataliena trains under the expert guidance of Master Virginia Folger, who has dedicated countless hours to preparing her for the high stakes of both national and international tournaments. Under Master Folger's mentorship, Kataliena’s outstanding performance on the big stage has become a powerful testament to what young minds can achieve through unwavering dedication, hard work, and discipline.
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Martial arts are far more than physical training; it builds resilience, focus, and character. By balancing rigorous training with her personal commitments, Kataliena serves as a shining example to other children in the community that excellence is achievable when you put your heart into your passions. Her success highlights how the values learned on the training mat can inspire youth to strive for their personal best in all areas of life.
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Seeing Kataliena’s hard work pay off on the national stage has been an incredible journey, and it all started right here in our community under the exceptional training of Master Virginia Folger. If you or your child is inspired by her dedication to martial arts and want to build confidence, focus, and lifelong skills, we invite you to take the first step.
Come check out where she trains at Middlebury Martial Arts, located at 1255 Middlebury Rd, Middlebury, CT 06762! The academy is welcoming new students and offering a free trial class so you can experience the benefits of world-class training firsthand.
Whether you want to learn self-defense, improve fitness, or build character, there is a place for you here. Come visit us or call (203) 527-5547 to reserve your spot and see what martial arts can do for your family!
