MASTERs Welcomes Leana Nelson as our Newest Distance Fellow

ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA —  Martial Arts for Social Transformation Equity and Rights (MASTERs) is pleased to announce the addition of a new distance fellow – Leana Nelson. Ms. Nelson will be supported by MASTERs while representing her home team of Top Game Martial Arts, located in Connecticut. 

Ms. Nelson comes to the MASTERs team with significant competitive experience under her belt. A judo black belt dedicated to her craft, she juggles elite level training with a full-time job. She is currently ranked #2 in the nation in her weight class of 57kg. A multiple time Pan Am Continental Open  medalist, Leana Nelson most recently took third at the Santiago Pan American Open this past June and won the US Open this July. At the US Open this past weekend she defeated the highly lauded junior world team member Harlee Hiller and reigning senior national champion Danielle Pekler. Her tournament success has made waves in the division and made her the pride of her community. 

Extensive competitive experience paired with incredible drive and undeniable skill make Ms. Nelson a natural addition to the MASTERs fellows. Her efforts have put her in position to qualify and compete in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. 

For media inquiries regarding MASTERs or High Noon Judo, please contact:
Dr. Christopher Round
Executive Director, MASTERs
roundce@martialartsforsocialgood.org
martialartsforsocialgood.org