Junior Kelli Ann Omatsu participated in the Interscholastic League of Honolulu (ILH) judo championships, placing first in her weight class.

Omatsu competed against students from other private schools on the island.

“I feel very proud of myself, but placing in states is what really counts for me,” she said. “The last girl I competed against represented Punahou and she was tough, but I fought her just as hard as all the others.”

Omatsu who is the Academy’s first ILH judo champion will continue to the state tournament with senior Taira Gay, (2nd place), freshman Kaela Fiesta,( 2nd place), and junior Mary Antopina, (3rd place).

Omatsu’s passion for judo began early.

“I have been doing judo since I was 10 years old and my father was my main motivation,” she said. “He always encouraged me to practice and I wanted to make him proud so I followed through with it.”

“I go to ILH practice five times a week and club practice three times a week,” said Omatsu. “However, all these commitments are worth it because judo is where I can meet friends, and I am always learning new things from different people and coaches everyday.”