Karateka kick their way open to Italy

KARATE NEWS - Nine Goju Kai students from Eden represented Africa at the IKGA European seminar, hosted by Goju Kai Italy. Fifteen countries were in attendance under the leadership of the world president and chief instructor, Goshi Yamaguchi Saiko Shihan.

Countries that attended were England, Sweden, Belgium, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania, South Africa, Czechoslovakia, Portugal, Germany, Ukraine, Namibia, Bulgaria, Hungary and Switzerland.

It was a fantastic seminar, enjoyed by all. Caden Williams was the only contestant from Eden who received a medal - bronze for kumite (fighting). He competed against the European countries.

Caden's mum and coach (sensei), Samantha Williams, told George Herald that they are proud of his achievement and of all their participants. One thing is evident: this woman knows how to separate work and home life!

Life-changing sport

It was a first for the children to participate in the IKGA European seminar, where they had the privilege to witness how strong the international competition is. The seminar was held in preparation for the 2025 World Championship, which will be held in Tokyo.

Karate sets the tone for almost all sporting codes. Children learn the core values of discipline in almost all aspects of life.

Samantha said in this sport everybody is equal. "Karate is such a huge spectrum, no matter your background, we treat all as equals. The only thing that separates these wonderful children from one another is the colour of their belts."

She said karate has the ability to change the face of our communities for the better. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is common among students, but she has witnessed the life-changing effect of the sport on these children.

"The parents struggle to maintain discipline at home, I can see the improvement in many of these students. It takes commitment, but parents need to trust me with their children. Mutual trust breaks the cycle of ill-discipline and ADHD."

Caden Williams from Eden received a bronze medal at this year's IKGA European seminar, held in Italy.

Changing communities

There is no doubt that Samantha, together with her supporting husband, Kurt, will take one community at a time to change the world. Pacaltsdorp and Rosemoor are privileged to have outreach projects run by the Williams couple.

Samantha also explained that her short-term goal is to start another outreach in Blanco. "Our communities not only need karate in general, but the positive effect karate has on children and their immediate society." Her best wishes and goals are always to see her students grade at the end of the year, something which is very close to her sensei heart.

Pacaltsdorp classes are every Tuesday afternoon, 16:00 until 17:00. In Rosemoor it is Thursdays from 16:00 until 17:00. Beginner classes in town run from 14:15 until 15:00 every Tuesday and Thursday.

For more information, contact Samantha Williams on 083 238 6013 or Kurt Williams on 081 090 9370.

Back from left: Rowan Robertson, Cameron Jansen and Juan Lintvelt. Middle: Charlize van der Walt, Ryan Gregory and Robyn Williams. Front: Caden Williams, Lianay Jantjies and Tylor Muller with sensei Samantha Williams (seated).