Eva Alexander: Champion Karateka and Inspiring Role Model
DENTON, Texas -- Eva Alexander proudly holds the title of No. 1 in Team USA's Female Kumite 50kg category, embodying both excellence in karate and a commitment to mentorship. Driven by gratitude, a significant part of Alexander’s career is dedicated to teaching karate at the Academy of Classical Karate. Her students value her not just for her tournament wins, but also as a mentor. They eagerly look forward to her lessons and fun activities.
"I think that aspect of giving back to the school and the karate community in the same way it has given to me is very fulfilling," Alexander shared. “It’s very full circle.”
Every week, she dedicates four days to teaching while managing her studies as a kinesiology major at the University of North Texas, where she is set to graduate this fall. With aspirations to pursue an accelerated nursing program, Alexander balances her academic and athletic commitments.
“I feel like my sport is pretty deeply ingrained in who I am, and I try to see my self-worth in my achievements and how I help other people,” Alexander explained.
Yet, the challenge of maintaining a student-athlete life can sometimes weigh heavily on her because many of her competitors aren’t also college students. However, she has cultivated a resilient mindset that helps her excel in both arenas.
“I need to be able to beat the best in the world on my best day and then manage like when my best days are,” she shared. “Even the best in the world have bad days.”
Currently, Alexander is recovering from a shoulder injury she sustained last summer. As she prepares for the national team trials, she is learning to adapt her training and techniques, knowing she won't be at full strength by the time the trials arrive.
Chris Stratis, strength and conditioning coach for the USA national karate team, praises Alexander’s determination.
“Across the dozen years that I’ve known Eva, her determination, drive to improve, and desire to perform at her best have always impressed me,” said Stratis. “She has been focused and motivated to continue training during the recovery from that injury to ensure that she’s positioned to stay on top as one of Team USA’s best Karate athletes.”
Her recovery journey not only challenges her physically but also fosters personal growth and adaptability.
Alexander's karate journey began at 11 years old. Her ascent in the sport was unexpected and remarkable. Recognizing her innate talent, a coach encouraged her to audition for the junior elite national team despite her limited experience. Participating purely for the joy of the sport, she surprised everyone with a victory.
“Maybe this is my passion,” she recalled, her eyes shining with nostalgia.
Her karate journey quickly shifted from asking her dad for $500 for World Karate Federation-approved gear to needing $2,000 to compete on international stages. Everything felt invigorating and natural—there was no stress, only encouragement to enjoy herself. Ironically, it was in this relaxed state that she excelled.
"I feel like it's dangerous to value myself only based on my wins," she explains. “I want to have fun and get the job done.”
However, her transition to the senior team, with its wide age and experience range, was daunting. Alexander’s win in 2021 Pan American Championship a significant breakthrough for her first year on the senior national team after enduring many setbacks. Another career highlight came at the U.S. Open tournament in Las Vegas, where she triumphed over the No. 1 ranked opponent that year. While typical karate matches last about five to seven minutes, her match extended into an exhausting 20-minute battle. This pivotal experience made her realize it was time to stop underestimating herself and embrace her potential.
Beyond her impressive athletic achievements, Eva is also cherished as a dependable and thoughtful friend.
“A lot of people often fall into peer pressure when it comes to going out with their friends, but Eva knows when it’s time to have fun and when it’s time to train,” her close friend Hollie Tran remarked. “Her students are lucky to have her!”
Photo courtesy Eva AlexanderCareer highlights:
5x Junior US Team member
Senior National Team member
7th place at Series A – Montreal
Pan American Championship: Bronze
North American Cup: Gold
2016 Nationals: Gold in 2 Elite Kumite Divisions
1x USANKF Silver medalist
2x USANKF Bronze medalist