Representing Minas Gerais at the Brazilian School Games, Ray won a silver medal and has been collecting victories in both state and national competitions.
Sports have the power to drive social change, and Ray Lucas Matos de Araújo’s story is a testament to this. At just 14, Ray represented Minas Gerais in the Brazilian School Games (JEBs) in Recife, where he earned a silver medal, becoming the first from his team to reach the podium. His journey, marked by dedication and perseverance, has been nurtured by the Ramacrisna Institute, which has provided vital support for his development both as an athlete and as an individual.
Ray Lucas: A Journey of Sports and Social Transformation
From a young age, Ray showed strong focus and discipline, qualities that were further developed through judo. The Ramacrisna Institute has played an essential role in his journey, providing him with training facilities, psychological support, and a dedicated coaching team to help him reach his potential. “Ramacrisna has been essential in my athletic career. They’ve empowered me and given me all the support I need to achieve every victory,” Ray shares.
With Ramacrisna’s support, he has found an environment that values sports as a means of social transformation, helping young people develop both athletic and life skills. “What I love most about judo is that it challenges me to become better every day,” says Ray, who sees sports as a path to constant improvement.
Despite his young age, Ray already has an impressive sports record. In addition to being the runner-up in the 2024 Brazilian School Games, he won bronze in 2023 and achieved a three-time championship in the Minas Gerais School Games. He also claimed the state judo title in 2022 and became a four-time champion of the Betim Cup, along with placing fifth in the 2022 Brazilian Regional Championship and the Minas International Judo Cup.
These achievements qualified him for the Athlete Scholarship, providing resources for Ray to further his judo career. “This was an important milestone for me. The scholarship will help me financially, beyond what my family could offer,” explains Ray.
Beyond Physical Training
Ray’s story demonstrates how sports can break barriers and open doors for a brighter future. For Ray, judo has not only strengthened his physical development but has also been instrumental in shaping him as a responsible citizen.
To Ray and his family, judo is more than just a sport—it’s a transformative force. “Ray has always been a respectful child, but with judo, he became even more focused and responsible,” says Leandro Aparecido de Matos, Ray’s father. “We are so proud of his achievements. Each victory is a celebration for our family,” he adds proudly.
Leandro also expresses gratitude to Ramacrisna for supporting his son. “I’m deeply grateful to God and Ramacrisna for being alongside Ray, offering him a positive path amidst life’s many distractions. This sport has changed not only Ray’s life but our entire family’s,” Leandro emphasizes.
Ray’s coach, Caliton Silva, attributes his success to his motivation both on and off the mat. “Ray is a deeply motivated student who’s always there to support his peers and lift their spirits. His positive attitude brings energy to the group, making him the heartbeat of the team. I believe Ray’s greatest success in sports is the number of people he can inspire and support along the way. I’m incredibly proud of him,” Caliton says.
A Promising Future
Ray Lucas dreams of achieving more titles and becoming a role model in judo. “I want to gain more knowledge, win more championships, and inspire others with my dedication. Ramacrisna has given me the foundation to dream bigger,” he shares.
By supporting young athletes like Ray, the Ramacrisna Institute reaffirms its commitment to sports as a tool for social transformation, promoting values like discipline, responsibility, and resilience. Help us impact more young lives. Contact us to learn how you can support this mission.
