New Karate Kids on the block aims big
Karate Kids Dojo was founded in 2017 but they aim to grow and become one of the best clubs in Krugersdorp in the future.
Like the hit karate film of the early 80s, The Karate Kid, a dojo in Noordheuwel aims to overcome similar challenges and become number one.
Karate Kids Dojo is a relatively new club having been established just six years ago, yet the future looks bright.
Founded in 2017 by Sensei Evert de Bruyn, the club hopes to be the breeding ground where children can develop, learn and be the next best karateka.
“We currently have 45 young, hungry, and enthusiastic students and hope to grow into the one, if not the biggest within Krugersdorp. We want to produce top Karateka who can demonstrate the art of self-defence,” said Sensei Evert.
He said the style of Karate practiced is Goju Ryu. According to the International Shorei Martial Arts Academy (ISMAA), Goju Ryu is among the oldest martial arts traditions and movements. The system is based on the concept of hard (go) and soft (ju), always in consistent harmony one equalising the other. The art combines traditional Okinawan techniques with both internal and external Chinese principles. The soft (ju), internal Chinese style concentrates upon circular movements and the development of chi (vital energy), while the external, hard (go) principle relies upon physical strength.
When asked why the club is named Karate Kids, Evert explained that the inspiration behind it came from the inspirational 1984 film.
“The movie played a major role in my life and the fact that I chose karate to become a way of my life means I need to thank Mr Miyagi,” Evert said.
He also described it as a major privilege to be training youngsters and watching them progress.
“I once heard a saying that ‘If you do what you love, you will not work a day in your life’. I am that privileged. It’s an absolute honour to be part of a child’s growth,” Evert said.
So far, the club has seen a number of its students grow in grading and rank. They are currently hard at work to produce their first black belt.
“As it is still a very young dojo, we have not yet produced a Shodan student, that is our aim.”
Sensei Evert has been doing Goju Ryu Karate for the past 30 years having taught at various dojos before starting Karate Kids Dojo in 2017.
