At our 2023 Worlds event, we had the honor of announcing the winners of our organization's most prestigious awards. These awards are a testament to the dedication, talent, and exceptional contributions of individuals within the ATA (American Taekwondo Association). We are thrilled to recognize these outstanding individuals who have exemplified the core values and spirit of Taekwondo. Join us in extending our heartfelt congratulations to this year's deserving winners!

 

International Appreciation Award:

Recipient: Senior Master Jorge Lee

We commend Senior Master Jorge Lee for his unselfish dedication and outstanding efforts in the growth of the ATA. As chosen by the Master's Council from the Regional Awards nominations, Senior Master Jorge Lee has demonstrated remarkable commitment to the advancement of Taekwondo on an international scale. His contributions have made a lasting impact on our organization, and we are proud to present him with the International Appreciation Award.

International Instructor of the Year:

Recipient: Senior Master Morgan Shank

We extend our warmest congratulations to Senior Master Morgan Shank for being awarded the International Instructor of the Year. Through his exemplary personal life and sincere dedication to teaching and developing students, Senior Master Morgan Shank has become a role model for instructors worldwide. Furthermore, he has fulfilled instructional obligations to the region and the ATA, consistently embodying the Songahm Spirit of Taekwondo. This recognition is well-deserved.

International Adult Black Belt of the Year:

Recipient: Daniel Wade

We applaud Daniel Wade for his exceptional achievements as the recipient of the International Adult Black Belt of the Year award. Chosen by the Master's Council from the Regional Awards nominations, Daniel Wade has displayed remarkable discipline and martial bearing in his personal training. Additionally, his support of regional events, such as cheerfully serving as a judge at tournaments, showcases his commitment to the Songahm Spirit of Taekwondo. Congratulations on this well-earned recognition.

International Jr. Black Belt of the Year:

Recipient: Stevie Allen

Stevie Allen's dedication and commitment have earned him/her the prestigious International Jr. Black Belt of the Year award. Chosen by the Master's Council from the Regional Awards nominations, Stevie Allen has set an admirable example in his/her personal life and training. Furthermore, Stevie's enthusiastic support for regional events, including serving as a judge at tournaments, exemplifies the true essence of Taekwondo. We congratulate Stevie Allen on this remarkable achievement.

Sun Lee Service Award:

Recipient: Senior Master Susan Winter

We are delighted to recognize Senior Master Susan Winter as the recipient of the Sun Lee Service Award. Introduced in 2022, this annual award celebrates an individual within the ATA who demonstrates exceptional philanthropy within their community, association, or other nonprofit organizations. Senior Master Susan Winter's leadership and selfless dedication have positively impacted the ATA and the wider community. We extend our sincere congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.

RTTL of the Year:

Recipient: Senior Master Michelle Pavlik

Congratulations to Senior Master Michelle Pavlik for being granted the RTTL of the Year award. Recognized by the National Tournament Team, Senior Master Michelle Pavlik has consistently organized outstanding tournaments throughout the season. Her dedication and commitment to providing exceptional experiences for participants have greatly contributed to the success of the ATA. This recognition is a testament to her hard work and commitment to excellence.

Judge of the Year:

Recipient: Ulyses Paiz

We are pleased to acknowledge Ulyses Paiz as the exceptional Judge of the Year for the 2022-2023 season. Nominated by the National Tournament Team and Regional Tournament Liaisons (RTTLs) across the country, Ulyses Paiz's expertise and fairness have earned him this prestigious recognition. His contributions to ensuring fair and unbiased judgments have greatly enhanced the tournament experience for all participants. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor.

2022-2023 Most Competitive School:

Recipient: Chief Master Betsy Stevens and Senior Master Tony Rosa

We are thrilled to recognize Chief Master Betsy Stevens and Senior Master Tony Rosa as the recipients of the 2022-2023 Most Competitive School award. Their school has achieved the highest accumulation of competitive points throughout the tournament season, showcasing their dedication, hard work, and exceptional skills. Their commitment to excellence is commendable, and we congratulate them on this outstanding achievement.

2022-2023 Most Competitive International School:

Recipient: Senior Master Claudio Sotomayor

Congratulations to Senior Master Claudio Sotomayor for being awarded the 2022-2023 Most Competitive International School. This esteemed recognition highlights Senior Master Claudio Sotomayor's school for achieving the highest accumulation of competitive points throughout the tournament season. His leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence have set a remarkable example within the international Taekwondo community. Well done!

2022-2023 Most Competitive Club:

Recipient: Courtney Thuston

We are pleased to congratulate Courtney Thuston on receiving the 2022-2023 Most Competitive Club award. Courtney Thuston's club has excelled in accumulating competitive points throughout the tournament season, showcasing their skill, dedication, and hard work. This recognition is a testament to their commitment to excellence, and we applaud their outstanding achievements.

Data Entry Award:

Recipient: Andrea Donoho

We extend our congratulations to Andrea Donoho for receiving the Data Entry Award. Andrea Donoho's exceptional performance as part of the Most Outstanding Regional Data Team, as determined by the National Tournament staff, has been instrumental in promptly and accurately submitting tournament data to ATA Headquarters. We commend Andrea Donoho for her dedication and attention to detail, which have greatly contributed to the smooth operation of our organization.

Club of the Year: Recipient:

Senior Master David Serck

Senior Master David Serck is deserving of the Club of the Year award for embodying the spirit of ATA. Senior Master David Serck's club has not only excelled in student enrollment and retention but also serves as a pillar of support and integrity within its community. Congratulations to Senior Master David Serck for this well-earned recognition.

International School of the Year:

Recipients: Andre Van Tonder and Milana Van Tonder

Congratulations to Andre Van Tonder and Milana Van Tonder for receiving the International School of the Year award. Their school has not only excelled in student enrollment and retention but also represents a source of support and integrity within its community. We applaud Andre Van Tonder and Milana Van Tonder for their dedication and commitment to the spirit of ATA.

National School of the Year (USA):

Recipients: Master Robert Bentley and AnnaLee Bentley

We are delighted to recognize Master Robert Bentley and AnnaLee Bentley as the recipients of the National School of the Year award (USA). Their school exemplifies the spirit of ATA through outstanding student enrollment, retention, and community support. Master Robert Bentley and AnnaLee Bentley have made significant contributions to the growth and development of Taekwondo within their community. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor.

Songahm Special Service Award:

Recipients: Senior Master Ricardo Plentz, Senior Master Jesse Isaacs, and Master Jose Pedro Reyes

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Senior Master Ricardo Plentz, Senior Master Jesse Isaacs, and Master Jose Pedro Reyes for receiving the Songahm Special Service Award. This award recognizes their valuable contributions to the Songahm system, such as the development of training manuals, Songahm forms, and other projects that will impact future generations. Their dedication to advancing Taekwondo is commendable, and we are grateful for their exceptional service.

Hall of Fame Award:

Recipient: Chief Master Jordan Schreiber

Chief Master Jordan Schreiber is the deserving recipient of the Hall of Fame Award. This annual award is presented to individuals who have demonstrated unselfish dedication and outstanding efforts in the growth of Songahm Taekwondo. Chosen by the Presiding Grand Master and Masters Council, Chief Master Jordan Schreiber's contributions have had a profound impact on the development and success of Taekwondo. Congratulations on this prestigious recognition.

Presiding Grand Master M.K. Lee Award of Honor:

Recipients: Grand Master Michael Caruso and Grand Master Robert Jager

We are privileged to honor Grand Master Michael Caruso and Grand Master Robert Jager with the Presiding Grand Master M.K. Lee Award of Honor. This award is given to individuals who have demonstrated superior leadership, loyalty to the ATA, and significant contributions to Songahm Taekwondo. Grand Master Michael Caruso and Grand Master Robert Jager have exemplified these qualities, and their remarkable contributions have shaped the success and growth of our organization. Congratulations on this exceptional recognition.

 

Once again, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the award winners of 2023. Your outstanding achievements, commitment, and dedication to the spirit of ATA and Taekwondo serve as an inspiration to us all. We applaud your remarkable accomplishments and wish you continued success in your future endeavors.