Karate Champ Has Comeback After Surgery: Grafton Star Student Athlete

GRAFTON, MA — We all know student athletes who also bring their A-game to other parts of their lives.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. We’re working to let all your neighbors know the individual stories behind the leaderboard.

This submission comes from Erin Smith who nominated Katelyn of Grafton.

Star student athlete’s name: Katelyn

Star student athlete’s home state: Massachusetts

Star student athlete’s Patch town: Grafton

How do you know the star student athlete? I have trained in karate at the same school as Katelyn and we have trained and traveled to national and international karate tournaments together

What sport does the star student athlete play? Karate

Why do you believe the star student athlete should be recognized?

Katie is an amazing human being on and off the mats. She had ACL reconstruction surgery at 12 years old but came back strong to win multiple gold medals at World Championships for Team USA and multiple “Grand Champion” titles at events across the United States. Katie supports and cheers for all of the young women she competes against, and is always a positive role model for younger athletes and her teammates. Katie works hard in the classroom as well, even opting to take a college class in her senior year of high school (2022-2023). Katie has also led various community projects such as a fundraiser for the family of Officer Tarentino when he was killed in the line of duty, as well as a recent project to collect stuffed animals and toys to be given to children who may be victims of abuse. She is a fierce, strong, empathetic, and hard-working athlete who I believe should be recognized for her contributions to the community as well as her school and the martial arts world.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star student athlete?

Katie works hard to be the best she can be in the classroom, on the karate mat, and in her community. She is an excellent leader and role model for youth and adults alike!

Keep up the great work, Katelyn!

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Know someone making a difference in town? Nominate them as a Star Student-Athlete here.