Headmaster Kristi Jerome is the leader of Saber Light Knights Academy’s Hampton Roads/Williamsburg Dojo and one of SLK’s most experienced women competitors. A dedicated martial artist, instructor, and competitor, Kristi has helped expand the Academy’s presence in southeastern Virginia while representing Saber Light Knights at major tournaments across the country.
Kristi has built an impressive competitive résumé through years of competing against some of the strongest fighters in women’s saber combat. Her accomplishments include a 2nd-place finish at the 2023 Women’s Nationals, 2nd place at SaberStrong 2023, 3rd place at Starfighter 2024, and 3rd place at the 2024 Women’s Nationals. She followed those performances with 4th-place finishes in both the Redemption Division and Women’s Division at Starfighter 2025, and has been ranked as high as 6 nationally in the Women’s Division.
In 2026, Kristi represented Saber Light Knights at several major events, including Starfighter, SaberStrong in Nashville, and TSL X in Minneapolis, competing alongside SLK fighters from across Virginia.
Beyond competition, Kristi’s greatest contribution to Saber Light Knights has been as a teacher and leader. As Headmaster of the Hampton Roads/Williamsburg Dojo, she is responsible for developing fighters, building the local saber community, and carrying the culture and training philosophy of Saber Light Knights into a growing new chapter of the Academy.
Kristi brings the same qualities to teaching that have defined her competitive career: determination, consistency, resilience, and a willingness to keep learning. Whether coaching students at the dojo or stepping into the ring herself, she leads by example and demonstrates that improvement comes from showing up, doing the work, and continuing to challenge yourself.
Competitive Highlights
- 2nd Place — Women’s Nationals, 2023
- 2nd Place — SaberStrong, 2023
- 3rd Place — Starfighter, 2024
- 3rd Place — Women’s Nationals, 2024
- 4th Place — Starfighter Redemption, 2025
- 4th Place — Starfighter Women’s Division, 2025
- Former #6 nationally ranked Women’s competitor
- Competitor at TSL X, 2026
- Headmaster — Saber Light Knights Hampton Roads/Williamsburg
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