WKC WORLD CHAMPS
The Allegheny Shotokan “Viola” Karate Dojo from North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, achieved remarkable success at the 2024 World Karate and Kickboxing Commission (WKC) World Championships held in Albufeira, Portugal, from October 26 to November 1. Thirteen students from the dojo qualified for Team USA by securing top-four finishes at the WKC National Championships in Detroit earlier that year. This accomplishment marked the largest group from a single dojo to represent the United States at the World Championships .
Among the standout performers were 14-year-old Gabby Viola and 15-year-old Xander Eddy, both of whom earned gold medals in their respective divisions. Their victories not only underscored their personal dedication but also highlighted the dojo’s commitment to excellence in martial arts training .
The team’s success in Portugal was a continuation of their impressive performances on the international stage. Earlier in 2024, Viola and Eddy had also secured medals at the WAKO Junior World Kickboxing Championships in Budapest, Hungary, with Eddy winning silver and Viola earning bronze .
These achievements have propelled Viola and Eddy onto the U.S. Army Fight Team for the 2025 season, where they will represent the United States in various international competitions, further advancing their aspirations toward Olympic participation .
The Viola Karate Dojo’s accomplishments at the WKC World Championships exemplify the high level of talent and dedication present in Western Pennsylvania’s martial arts community.
