Nigel karatekas stand strong
The Tenshinkan Karate Club adjusted its regulations to keep its students safe.
Tenshinkan Karate Club had to close with immediate effect when the president moved the country to level four on June 28.
Since some of the restrictions were lifted again on July 11, the club could continue with its operations under strict conditions.
Despite the strain on the sport because of the pandemic, the club was able to open a second club in Balfour that operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
HERAUT spoke to Leon and Tanya Gagiano of the club to find out how they adjusted to regulations.
“We are fortunate to have a large training facility and are able to accommodate all our students with the social distancing requirements which are subdivided into three separate training schedules,” said Tanya.
“This also permits the maximum persons allowed at social events.”
The regulations that have been implemented within the club to ensure compliance of Covid-19 and the safety of our students and instructors are as follows:
• Social distancing is maintained during practice and overall within proximity to the clubs training area.
• All students are screened and sanitised and all records are kept on a daily attendance register.
• Training areas are sanitised before and during training sessions as well as after.
• No spectators or individuals are permitted entry into the club, students and instructors only. All students and instructors practise with masks on.
• The club has a designated kit area where all shoes are stored during training, as well as a designated isolation area for any unforeseen moments should a student feel unwell until they are fetched from class.
• The club has two trained and certified first-aiders during practices available should there be an unforeseen incident.
• All bathrooms are equipped with anti-bacterial hand wash and sanitisers and disposable paper towels.
• A safety officer is assigned within the club to ensure Covid-19 requirements are being followed. The overall compliance registers are also available on request.
• All championships have been put on hold until further notice regarding social gathering restrictions.
• The club has implemented Zoom classes for all students in Nigel and Balfour who are unable to attend physical classes thus maintaining their routine.
“Our head and co-instructor, as well as the club itself, are compliant with all Covid-19 protocols and have compliance certification available on request at the club,” said Tanya.
“The necessary signage and awareness notices are displayed upon entry to the club as well as within.
“We insist on the importance of staying active during the pandemic because it is critical for both physical and mental health. It is also important to keep to a routine. By staying active will help reduce stress and anxiety.
“Karate is not only a sport but absolutely necessary as it is the backbone and foundation to a safer human society.”
For more information contact Leon on 076 965 5649 or Tanya on 073 596 4319.
