For Erica George, karate has never simply been a sport—it has been the foundation for the way she lives her life.
Her journey began at just five years old when she first observed martial arts in Highland Park, MI. Through years of training, she earned her black belt and amassed more than 100 tournament trophies as a youth competitor. While the victories were memorable, the greatest reward was developing the discipline, commitment, resilience, and work ethic that would become the blueprint for every aspect of her life.
Those same principles have guided Erica throughout her career as a nonprofit executive, community leader, entrepreneur, and mother.
After nearly twenty years away from competition, Erica returned to karate following the birth of her second child. What started as a way to stay active while bringing her oldest daughter, Harley, to practice three nights each week quickly reignited a lifelong passion.
Within one year of returning to the sport, Erica was back competing, earning a National
Championship and qualifying to represent Team USA at the World Karate Championships in Portugal. Her comeback proved that athletic dreams do not have an expiration date and that excellence can be rediscovered at any stage of life.
Today, karate has become a family tradition. Erica’s son has begun his own martial arts journey, while her daughter, Harley, has gained her own momentum in the sport. Harley began training at just three years old and has earned multiple state championships. In 2026, she captured her first National Championships in both Forms and Sparring, earning a place on Team USA and qualifying for her first World Championships.
This year marks an extraordinary milestone as Erica and Harley will represent Team USA together at the World Championships in Spain.
For Erica, competing alongside her daughter is the realization of a dream far greater than standing atop a podium.
While both athletes train with the goal of winning world titles, their mission extends beyond medals.
As an African American mother and daughter competing together at the international level, they hope to inspire more families—and especially young Black girls—to pursue opportunities in martial arts and see themselves represented in sports where diversity has historically been limited.
Their journey is about breaking barriers, creating visibility, and proving that excellence belongs to everyone willing to commit to the process.
Karate has given Erica far more than championships. It has strengthened her character, shaped her leadership, and created a lasting family legacy built on perseverance, humility, courage, and service. Every time she steps onto the mat beside her daughter, she is reminded that the greatest victory isn’t measured by trophies—it’s measured by the example she leaves for the next generation.