The 2025 Milwaukee Open, held September 21 in Glendale, Wisconsin at Nicolet High School, was a landmark in the event’s history. Promoters Corwin Holzman and Mark Weinberg, with the Black Belt Leadership Academy as the sponsoring school, delivered the largest Milwaukee Open ever—and the biggest open sport karate event Milwaukee has hosted. Sanctioned as an AKA-/NASKA-rated 3A tournament, it drew competitors from a wide range of schools, styles, and teams eager to test their skills in forms, weapons, sparring, and traditional divisions. Spectators packed the venue, creating an atmosphere of excitement and support.
A standout feature this year was the addition of Kung Fu and Chanbara divisions through a new partnership with a Kung Fu organization. Winners from these divisions were invited to compete in the overall Grand Championships, underscoring the event’s commitment to inclusivity. On Saturday before the competition, a traditional forms seminar led by Joey Castro gave competitors unique insights and inspiration. Castro then remained on site to judge and encourage athletes throughout the event, adding credibility and energy to the competition.
Wisconsin competitors shined on their home turf. Dayana Grzegorzewski’s hard work and travel on the national circuit paid off when she earned the 14-17 Forms & Weapons Grand Champion title from a field of fourteen divisional winners. In the younger ranks, Coraleen Likeric captured the 13-and-under Forms & Weapons Grand Champion crown with a flawless traditional routine. These hometown victories highlighted the depth of talent in Wisconsin’s martial arts community and electrified the crowd.
The adult categories provided equally thrilling moments. Ben Bridwell, representing Kung Fu, captured the 35 & Over Forms & Weapons Grand Champion title, earning cheers from both the Kung Fu contingent and the broader audience. Libby Heule claimed the Women’s Overall Sparring Grand Champion title, while Colin Obrien proved nearly unstoppable, seizing 18-34 Forms & Weapons Grand Champion and 18 & Over Men’s Sparring Grand Champion honors. Their versatility and discipline demonstrated the Milwaukee Open’s ability to attract top-tier athletes across multiple styles.
The professionalism and organization of the tournament left a lasting impression. Competitor Bob Painter praised the promoters, saying:
“This Karate tournament is VERY well run, thanks to Corey Holzman and Mark Weinberg. The competition is great and the professionalism of the volunteer judges and staff is second to none. Thank You!!!”
With record-breaking attendance, expanded divisions, and praise like Painter’s, the 2025 Milwaukee Open set a new benchmark for open sport karate events in the Midwest. Under Holzman and Weinberg’s leadership and the support of Black Belt Leadership Academy, Milwaukee has cemented its place as a premier destination on the open sport karate calendar.
