Karate for Kids Team Excels at NYC Tournament

Nine members of the Hoboken Housing Authority's Karate for Kids program took home medals last month at the Battle of Bushido 4 in Manhattan.

Faith Figueroa, a 13-year-old green belt who won underbelt grand champion and Luis Melendez, a 14-year-old orange belt were the lone first place finishers. Other medalists included Shakea Coleman, a 13-year-old black belt who finished runner-up to the international champion; green belt Noelia Fernandez, 25; green belt Brian Diaz, 14; green belt Nicolas Neiro, 9; green belt Anthony Dominguez, 13; green belt Melanie Molina, 8; and blue belt Alanys Gonzales, 8.

“These students work hard all year,” HHA Executive Director Carmelo Garcia said in a statement. “Their determination shows with these outstanding results...We are proud of them as they have represented the HHA with class."