Local Card Show to benefit Aspiring Martial Arts Champions

The mats at Limitless Martial Arts studio will be cleared Saturday, May 16, 2026, not for sparring, but for collecting. The Limitless Card Show is set to transform a familiar training ground into a vibrant hub for card enthusiasts, all with the goal of propelling local karate students to national and international competitions.

As Sports Editor for the Rockton-Roscoe News, I've seen firsthand the dedication and talent within our local youth sports programs. So, when I learned about this unique fundraising effort, I was intrigued. The organizers, alongside Master Nevitt, explained that the competition team has been highly successful throughout the stateline region and at some national competitions. However, their sights are set on bigger stages – more national competitions, such as those organized by NASCA (North American Sport Karate Association), which hosts events across the country from Chicago to Florida.

"Our goal is to definitely go national," Master Nevitt stated. "There are a lot of prestigious, high-level competitions in the karate world, and many kids here have what it takes to get there. We're trying to make sure that we have the funding and resources to do so." This card show, we believe, offers a unique way to bridge that gap. It leverages a common interest – trading cards – to bring the community together and raise essential funds.

The event, hosted at the martial arts studio located at 5486 Elevator Road, will be more than just a typical card show. While the surging popularity of Sports and Pokémon cards makes them a focus, the show is not limited to just one type of trading card.

"The primary focus of this card show is to bring in as many vendors that sell as many different types of cards as possible," the organizers said.

This extensive approach is designed to appeal to a wide audience, from collectors of sports cards and of course, Pokémon.

This inclusive philosophy also extends to supporting local businesses and individuals.

"It's really about giving an opportunity for people who could do local businesses or like self-employed people to come in, make some money for themselves, help people in the area increase their collection," the organizers added.

It's a win-win: vendors gain exposure, collectors find new treasures, and the karate team benefits.

What makes this event particularly special is its local focus. Many large card shows, like those in Rockford or Madison, are massive convention-center affairs that often require significant travel. The Limitless Card Show provides a more accessible, community-oriented experience right here in Roscoe/Rockton.

"For us to do something here at the Limitless Martial Arts school, is a different level of a card show and give different access," the organizer noted, "a lot of people here aren't going to drive all the way up to Madison or further for some big, huge card show, just because they don't know of cards in that way. So I think I'm super excited about this because... people in Roscoe and Rockton have like an opportunity to participate."

Students will also be present, not just as beneficiaries, but as active participants, helping to run the event. This hands-on involvement fosters responsibility in the students and allows community members to meet the young athletes they are supporting.

Mike Neurauter is the father of one of the karate students, and also owns Mac Cards and Gaming. He brings valuable experience from frequenting card shows in Madison and Rockford. He's been actively promoting and recruiting vendors, and making strong connections within the card-collecting community. His vision, shared by the organizers, is for this to become an annual event.

Admission for attendees is a $2 donation, with all proceeds directly supporting the karate team's fundraising efforts. This modest contribution will go a long way in covering travel, accommodation, and competition fees for these aspiring champions.

For those new to trading cards, like me, this event will be a chance to understand the passion behind the hobby. Perhaps it will even inspire some to explore a new interest. As for me, my son’s recent acquisition of a Josh Allen 9.5 graded card, which he assures me is very expensive and should never be exposed to "real oxygen air," is proof of the significant world of collecting that I'm only beginning to grasp.

Beyond the cards, the event also offers the community a chance to visit the martial arts studio and learn more about its positive impact on local youth. Master Nevitt, described as both fun and tough, has clearly fostered an environment where students not only develop physical prowess but also personal strength and confidence. One of the instructors shared how a student who was once shy now uses her voice and engages with the world with newfound assertiveness.

The Limitless Card Show on May 16 is shaping up to be a day of community, commerce, and camaraderie, all for a worthy cause. It's a chance to support our local youth, discover new hobbies, and perhaps even find that elusive, rare card. Check out our continued coverage on the Rockton-Roscoe News Facebook page throughout the day Saturday, May 16, and in our newsletter.

For more information, or if you're a vendor looking to participate, you can reach out via email at [email protected].