Tebbutt Academy shines at final tournament of the year
Tebbutt Karate Academy celebrates a year of growth, medals, and strong team spirit.
As the year draws to a close, Tebbutt Academy ended 2025 on an incredible high, dominating the mats at the recent Golden Lion 3 KOSA Kickboxing Tournament.
The tournament took place on November 22 at Alpha Primary School in Lenasia, where karateka from various clubs competed in point fighting, continuous fighting, weapons forms, and low-kick light categories.
The academy entered 16 karateka, and by Wednesday, it was confirmed that they returned home with an outstanding medal haul of 17 gold, 11 silver, and 6 bronze medals, a testament to their hard work and discipline.
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Training for the tournament was intense, often running overtime, as coaches focused on strengthening both the physical and mental fitness of the students. This was the academy’s final tournament of the year, and many of the karateka showed remarkable improvement.
In addition, the academy held grading sessions earlier in the year and placed special emphasis on self-defence training, particularly for the girls, empowering them with practical skills to protect themselves.
A highlight of the event was the performance of Gauteng Lions U16 junior competitor, green belt Daniel Kruger, who secured second place against a black belt sensei. He recently joined the academy before the grading and has already shown exceptional promise.
Two students who stood out throughout the year were Logan Peters and Daniel Kruger, recognised for their consistency, growth, and outstanding performances. On the girls’ side, Khazimla Nyilika shone brightly. Her resilience, dedication, and unwavering drive have made her a standout karateka. She holds a Purple 2 belt and continues to push herself to higher levels.
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Kancho Alex Tebbutt extended his heartfelt gratitude as the academy closed another successful year, celebrating the achievements, discipline, and growth of its karateka.
“As another year passes in a flash and we gather once again to celebrate our karateka and their achievements, I would like to thank the entire team for their consistency throughout the year,” he said.
“Firstly, we held two successful gradings. The karateka demonstrated what they had learned in class and were rewarded by levelling up their belts. Secondly, our club participated in six tournaments this year, including our very own successful Tebbutt’s Tournament.
“As always, our students carried the Tebbutt name high. They brought home medals, and with that came more experience, more knowledge, and more confidence. You have all made me incredibly proud, from practising in the dojo to representing the dojo in tournaments.”
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Kancho Tebbutt wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
“Enjoy the festive season and a well-deserved break. Next year we start on another high. We will be closing on December 4 and reopening on January 12.”
He also extended deep appreciation to the parents and supporters:
“To our parents and supporters, without you, the children would not be here. Thank you for driving them to the dojo and tournaments.
“Seeing how involved you are in your children’s activities brings warmth to my heart. Not only do you support your own children, but you support all the other children as well. Thank you. Without parents like you, the club would not be the same.”
To his karateka, he shared a message of pride and encouragement: “Thank you for keeping the Tebbutt name high, for coming to class every week, and for giving your best in the dojo and in tournaments. You can all be proud of yourselves. It takes discipline, dedication, and sacrifice to keep pushing, attend classes, and return to compete. You set a great example for everyone around you.
“To my support team, this was a busy year, and an even bigger one awaits next year. Thank you for all your assistance in the dojo and at tournaments. Your efforts do not go unnoticed,” said Tebbutt.
