Reduced roster: Kendo and Softball Teams Withdraw

The Washington DC contingent heading to the American Games in Dallas, Texas, scheduled for June 20-22, has been significantly reduced. Originally intending to send a delegation of 150 athletes across 13 sports, the team will now consist of approximately 110 individuals competing in 11 sports.

Kim Yu-jin, chairperson of the washington DC Sports Committee, confirmed the withdrawal of both the Kendo and softball teams, citing insufficient player participation as the primary reason.This decision marks a considerable shift in the team’s composition and overall strategy for the Games.

Kendo Team’s Absence Explained

lee Seong-gyu,head of the Washington DC Kendo Association,elaborated on the challenges faced in assembling a competitive Kendo team. Despite efforts to recruit players from various dojos, including gallery Hall and Ace Hall, the association ultimately decided against participating due to a lack of commitment from potential team members. This highlights the difficulties in securing adequate portrayal for certain sports, even within a vibrant athletic community.

I asked the Gallery Hall and Ace Hall to select a player to form the Washington Squad, but I decided not to go to the plane, so I decided not to go to this time.
Lee Seong-gyu, Washington DC Kendo Association

Confirmed Sports and Team Composition

Despite the setbacks, Washington DC will still be represented in a diverse range of sports. The confirmed list includes golf (9 athletes), bowling (12), shooting (11), tennis (13), Taekwondo (22), soccer (6), volleyball (10), swimming (8), basketball (8), badminton (5), and table tennis (7). The delegation also includes seven team executives, such as Kim Deok-man, Chung Jong-woong, Kim Yu-jin, and Secretary-General Kwon Mi-ae.

Organizers are actively exploring the possibility of adding wrestling and a 10K short-cut marathon to the team’s repertoire, aiming to maximize participation across various athletic disciplines. This ongoing effort demonstrates a commitment to providing opportunities for athletes and showcasing the diverse talent within the Washington DC sporting community.

Fundraising Efforts Underway

To support the team’s participation in the American Games, a sponsorship event is scheduled to take place in early May at the Korean Community Center in Washington. Fundraising is crucial for covering travel expenses, accommodation, and other logistical needs, ensuring that athletes can focus on their performance without financial burdens. Community support plays a vital role in enabling these athletes to represent Washington DC on a national stage.