Story by Grayson Mask. Photos by Dallas Sumo Club.
Japan’s oldest sport is one of Texas’s newest sports, thanks to the Dallas Sumo Club– a nonprofit organization whose mission is to grow and foster the education and awareness of Japan’s national sport throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.
Corey Morrison, the founder of the Dallas Sumo Club, had an unconventional journey to sumo wrestling. Raised in urban Dallas, Corey engaged primarily in traditional American sports like baseball, football, and lacrosse. Professionally, he built a career as a director of photography, working on various projects including short films and music videos.
His interest in sumo wrestling was sparked during a period of freelance work when he stumbled upon a YouTube documentary about Chiyonofuji, a legendary sumo wrestler. Captivated by Chiyonofuji’s story and the rich traditions of sumo, Corey began to delve deeper into the sport, reshaping his perceptions of sumo wrestlers and their athletic abilities.
Corey’s transition from fan to participant began through social media interactions. Alongside his girlfriend, Siggy Sauer, he shared his enthusiasm for sumo, catching the attention of Justin Kizzart from Austin, Texas. Their involvement in the Texas sumo community was solidified by training in Austin and attending the Consulate’s Cup tournament, where they met Tom Zabel from the Mighty Eagle Sumo Club.
Encouraged by the Texas sumo community, particularly Tom and Justin, Corey founded the Dallas Sumo Club in 2021. Initially holding practices in shared spaces, the club’s growing participation necessitated a move to a larger venue. Now, offering up to three training sessions a week, the Dallas Sumo Club attracts a diverse group of participants, fostering a supportive and inclusive community.
“Sumo wrestling stands out due to its strong community spirit and honor-based values. Unlike other combat sports, Sumo fosters a supportive environment where there’s minimal animosity, and the focus is on mutual growth and respect,” Corey explains.
According to Corey, the sport’s honor-based values preclude derogatory behavior and unsportsmanlike conduct, promoting a culture where everyone, especially beginners, is encouraged and supported. This distinctive ethos and a resurgence of interest in Sumo in the U.S. have contributed to the sport’s growth. As a result, Corey and Siggy have created a unique and welcoming space for all involved.
In August 2022, the Dallas Sumo Club became a nonprofit organization, furthering its mission to promote sumo wrestling locally. The club’s involvement in community events, such as cultural festivals and anime conventions, highlights sumo’s cultural value and encourages physical fitness. Corey notes that some members have seen significant health benefits, with some losing over 100 pounds due to the intense workouts and practice matches.
The club’s nonprofit structure has enabled broader community interaction, encouraging women and youth to participate in sumo. One of the club’s main goals is dispelling myths and misconceptions about sumo and showcasing its accessibility. It aims to highlight the sport’s popularity and accessibility to a wide range of people.
“By conducting practices outdoors (Yamageiko) in visible, public spaces like Japanese Gardens and parks, the club seeks to make Sumo more inclusive and demonstrate its physical intensity and cultural richness,” stated Corey.
Maintaining traditional aspects of sumo while engaging new audiences is a delicate balance the Dallas Sumo Club navigates with care. The club is committed to preserving sumo’s authenticity, offering training experiences facilitated by former professional sumo wrestlers.
Looking to the future, the Dallas Sumo Club has ambitious goals. A recent visit to Japan reinforced their dedication to authenticity. The upcoming Rollertown Showdown Sumo Tournament aims to mirror the structure and spirit of professional sumo tournaments. Through these initiatives, the Dallas Sumo Club seeks to expand sumo’s reach and impact, honoring the sport’s heritage while welcoming new participants and audiences.
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