Karate master is Gauteng’s Sportsman of the Year

Well-known karate master Morgan Moss walked away with the Sportsman of the Year award at this year’s Gauteng Sports Awards.

Even through he had won titles like Gauteng Karate Athlete of the Year, and South African Karate Athlete of the Year numerous times Morgan said this award was unexpected.

“To me, the fact that a karateka was nominated amongst the final three, is a victory in itself. To be considered an elite sportsperson amongst other sports was a fantastic achievement for me.”

This was his first time winning the Gauteng title; he had won the University of Johannesburg (UJ) Sportsman of the Year title back in 2011.

He admitted that Covid-19 made many things difficult.

“It was challenging in terms of making sure that we keep the dojo doors open, and as an athlete it became extremely challenging.” He explained that they were doing rapid antigen tests right before going onto the floor. That made it extremely challenging, because from a psychological point of view you never knew if you would be on the floor or not.”

All in all he called 2021 a successful year.

“We still managed to participate across South Africa. I won all the South African events and have remained undefeated since 2007, which is fantastic.”

He and his fellow karateka also represented the country at the Africa Championships last year and this year, and also competed at the World Championships recently.

“We did really well at all the major internationals we were able to go to.”

He believes that what makes a good sportsman is discipline.

“Without discipline you won’t be able to achieve any of your goals,” he said, adding that sometimes one needs to make certain sacrifices.

To keep motivated he suggested finding and focusing on the little things.

“Do not only focus on the big goal but set small achievable goals and celebrate them. Trust in the process and celebrate the small victories. Be confident and be happy with what you have done.”

One of his highlights had to be that he was the only male athlete to represent South Africa at the Karate Olympic qualifiers.

“Being among the elite in the world of karate was a huge highlight.”

Although next year might be his final year as an athlete, Morgan is looking forward to new challenges the future may bring.

He believes that a good athlete should give back as well.

“I want to share my experience with my athletes, with my family and with the people at the dojo because I want them to achieve not only what I’ve achieved but more than that.”

He said he was grateful for everyone’s support, especially his family and his mom.

“My mom in particular drove me to training every day. If it wasn’t for her I would never be where I am today. She is still my biggest supporter.”

He also thanked Arawaza International for continuing to support him with equipment after ten years, as well as the seniors at his club who hold the fort in his absence.