JUNIOR Board
Alfredo "Freddy" Lopez-Salas
FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT
Freddy has been practicing Taekwondo since age 4, He loves to play piano and volunteer in his free time.
He came with the idea to create Latino Athletes USA after attending many competitions and noticed that many talented Latino athletes are unable to pursue their dreams to compete at a bigger stage due the lack of resources and financial challenges.
He hopes to make a positive change in the lives of individuals by increasing access and expand outreach for young athletes, especially for those sports where Latinos are underrepresented.
His goal is to promote diversity that will impact positively our society.
Some of Alfredo's recent achievements in Taekwondo are:
- 2x Gold Medalist Representing USA at Pan American Championships
- 2023 Gold Medalist Costa Rica Open
- 2023 Gold Medalist Argentina Open
- 2023 Gold Medalist Kim Unyong Cup International, South Korea Open
- 2022 USA Taekwondo National Grand Prix Champion
- 2023 USAT Dominant Junior International Athlete
- 2023 Silver Medal National American Taekwondo United Championship
- 2023 Silver Medal Pan Am Series Brazil
Kjartan “Kiki” Knutson-Ho
SECRETARY AND IT SUPPORT
Kiki has a passion for Taekwondo, a Korean martial art, and has been a practitioner for eleven years. Kiki believes that competing in sports, whether it be at a local, state, national, or international level helps to build character, strengthen mental focus, foster comradery and community. Sports can be transformational in a young person’s life, yet competing in a sport at a high performance or elite level can be costly and resource draining. His hope with Latino Athletes USA is to help young athletes achieve their dream of competing in a sport they are passionate about, regardless of ability to finance or pay for tournaments or sporting competitions.
Some of Kiki’s athletic achievements are:
- Gold Medalist Representing USA at Pan American Championship
- 2022 Texas State Taekwondo Team
- 2022 Gold Medalist AAU Taekwondo Nationals
- 2023 Oklahoma State Taekwondo Champion
- 2023 NCTA High School Nationals Champion
- 2023 Gold Medalist USA Taekwondo Grand Prix Central
- 2023 Bronze Medalist Costa Rica Open
- 2023 Finalist Taipei City Cup, Taiwan
Facundo Baez-Akel
TREASURER AND SOCIAL MEDIA ADVISOR
Meet Facundo, a dynamic individual with a kaleidoscope of interests that reflect his vibrant personality. With a deep appreciation for theater, music, and the arts, Facundo finds inspiration in the beauty of creativity. His love for exploration has taken him on journeys around the globe, cultivating a worldly perspective that enriches his life.
Facundo's journey in martial arts has been a testament to his commitment and discipline. From mastering the intricate techniques of taekwondo to embracing the multifaceted world of MMA, jujitsu, and muay thai, he has continually pushed his physical and mental boundaries. Recently, he discovered a newfound passion for wrestling, immersing himself in the challenges and camaraderie that the sport offers.
Motivated by a desire to make a positive impact, Facundo envisions contributing to the creation of Latino Athletes USA. His goal is to support talented individuals who face financial barriers in showcasing their skills in sports tournaments. Facundo believes that everyone, regardless of financial constraints, should have the opportunity to exhibit their hard work and dedication.