The doors to the Yuishin Kai Karate school were reopened to the public on March 31 in Daveyton.
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The school was established in 1966 but closed in 2014 due to the Sinaba Stadium being vandalised.
“I became a student at the school at the age of 10,” said Sensei Isaac Maila.
“I then became one of the instructors, but due to personal circumstances, I had to leave Daveyton.
“I have returned to reopen the school because of the alcohol and drug abuse and gangs on the streets, so I am hoping to keep the youth off the streets and occupied at the school.”
Maila, who is one of many instructors who will teach the youth for free, said anyone from the age of four to the elderly are allowed to join the school.
According to Maila, he has sent a request to the municipality to use the building of the stadium, but until permission is granted he will teach his learners on the field outside of the building.
“During the week I also want to visit schools in Daveyton to give lessons,” he said.
Maila, who also practices Tai Chi, said he wants to help the elderly as well by visiting old age homes to teach martial arts as breathing and stretching exercises.
“The aim of this school and teachings is to give back to the community,” he said.
On March 31 Maila, along with other instructors, taught youngsters several moves.
“Karate is not about looking for a fight,” said senior instructor Thabo Sibeko.
“The objective is to help youngsters grow up with dignity to the extent that young boys understand how to be gentlemen.
“I learned about love, peace, tolerance, respect and self-control through martial arts.”
According to Sibeko, karate promotes self-defence and peace.
“Attacking the opponent is only used when there is absolutely no other way,” he said.
Maila gave the anxious learners three tips on Saturday.
• Posture: When you walk like you are not afraid, then you are not targeted.
• Defence: The way to defend is to avoid an argument by walking away from the situation.
• Attack: When a defence is not working and the opponent corners you, then attack.
Maila’s son, Kgomotso Maila, who was also present at the opening, said the karate school is one part of what the Senseis want to create.
“The stadium has a tennis court and soccer field. We are hoping to find instructors who will teach children these activities so there is more than one activity to do here after school,” Kgomotso said.
Maila said through this NPO project he hopes to receive funding to provide the correct gear for learners which he can give to them for free.
The school will be open during the week with several instructors available, but Maila will be at the stadium every Saturday from 9am.
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