More Than a Sport: How Martial Arts Helped Shape Isabel Rivera’s Future
Left to Right. Bryan Carroll and Isabel Rivera.
What began as an opportunity to try martial arts through a DEA Educational Foundation (DEAEF) youth program, in partnership with DEA St. Louis Operation Engage, Operation Breakthrough and Bryan Carroll’s Low Kick Camp, has grown into a years-long journey of discipline, leadership, and personal growth for Kansas City teenager Isabel Rivera.
After DEA St. Louis moved its programming to another Operation Engage focused city, the DEAEF continued its programming with Bryan Carroll and offered a scholarship to Isabel. This has turned into a multi-year partnership with Carroll, not only in the Low-Kick Camp, but for scholar Isabel who has become one of the standout success stories of the program, both inside and outside the gym.
The DEAEF Martial Arts Program introduces youth to martial arts while reinforcing positive life choices, discipline, and mentorship. Operation Breakthrough serves hundreds of children and teens in Kansas City each week, many from underserved communities.
Bryan Carroll, head coach and owner of Low Kick Camp, first noticed Isabel several years ago when she joined the program.
“Certain kids you see the potential in and you can’t let it go,” Carroll said. “She had a hunger and a knack for it.”
Recognizing her natural ability and commitment, Carroll initially offered Isabel a scholarship to continue training. Soon after, the DEAEF stepped in to help sponsor her long-term journey through the program.
“She’s been a scholar now for several years,” Carroll said. “Natural talent only takes you so far. Now she’s learned the technique, the discipline, and the consistency that separates good athletes from great ones.”
At Low Kick Camp, Isabel trains in Muay Thai, often called the “art of eight limbs,” a martial art known for its technical striking and discipline. While traditional Muay Thai does not use a belt ranking system, the gym incorporates youth belt progression to help students set goals and track growth. Isabel has now advanced to the brown belt level.
“When I go train, it’s hard and difficult, but the coaches make it feel like a family. The gym feels like a family, the coaches are encouraging and supportive. This sport gives me the opportunity to learn self-defense moves but also learn discipline.”
Isabel with her winning medal.
Along the way, she has also stepped outside of her comfort zone by competing in PKT Point Kickboxing tournaments hosted in Kansas City.
“She didn’t even want to compete at first,” Carroll recalled. “But she stepped in there and won twice.”
Today, Isabel is not only known for her sharp technique and athleticism, but also for the way she encourages younger students. Carroll says she regularly helps newer participants learn combinations and build confidence during classes.
“She’s respectful, willing to help, and willing to listen,” he said. “The world would be a better place if all kids were like her.”
Outside the gym, Isabel continues to excel academically and athletically. She maintains a 4.2 GPA, participates in National Honor Society, and is active in softball, volleyball, soccer, and other school activities. She also hopes to pursue a future career in medicine.
For Isabel, the impact of the program reaches far beyond martial arts itself.
“This sport trains me physically and mentally to continue pushing through hard times,” she said. “Going to practice constantly helps me improve in the sport but also improve as a person.”
She also understands firsthand how important access to programs like this can be for young people.
“The program is amazing,” Isabel said. “It gives an opportunity to a child to chase their dreams or what they’re good at. Many kids want to do a sport, but it could be too expensive. This program helps children like that because they can pursue the sport they desire.”
Christina Pastras, Associate Director of DEAEF Youth Programs, says Isabel’s journey reflects exactly why the DEAEF continues investing in long-term youth mentorship opportunities.
“Isabel’s journey reflects the long-term impact of the scholarship program by showing how consistent access and support can transform a young person’s path. Her growth over time shows that mentorship and martial arts training can lead to lasting changes in our youth.”
For Carroll, creating a positive environment for young people remains at the center of everything the gym represents.
“Our youth needs this so badly,” he said. “We need to instill something good in these kids early, or the world will. There is no bad language and no bad attitudes in my gym. It will not happen here. This is a safe space.”
That environment is something Isabel says she feels every time she walks through the doors.
“I remember the first time I stepped into the gym,” she said. “I remember how nervous I was but at the same time how excited. From that day, I’ve grown in the sport so much and learned the meaning of discipline.”
“The environment that surrounds me when I’m in the gym is incredible,” she added. “So much love and encouragement is spread. It’s a place where everyone feels safe.
Updated Aug 26, 2026
Partnerships, YMAP, Spotlight