Juniors
I had the opportunity to meet up with Mark Strecker. We reminisced about the junior karate classes. The first generation of karate students were familiar names we have featured such as Franco DeLorenzis, Greg Mellar and Billy Little. Then came Debbie Rizzo, Mike Wran, Jeffery Wales and Peter Huraka. Countless hours were spent moulding these youth into great karateka by Benny Allen, Ray Greenway, Frank Wishart, Tim Collingwood, Pat Ammendolia and of course the great Vince Castellano. Then there were the unsung heroes who drove the youth too and from the classes and the tournaments. Some parents were always there like Arnie Rizzo or Mr. DeLorenzis.
The work paid off. The dedication of the instructors paid off. The youth grew in numbers and tournament hosts knew that if Eastern showed up then there would be a stable of very good competitors of all ages. The sheer numbers helped guarantee the tournament's success. I hope you can enjoy this and I look forward to your comments.