Bullied into a black belt dream
Gr 11 learner Kgomotoso Phathlane said she took up karate because she was bullied and the skills learnt would ensure she is able to defend herself.
POLOKWANE – Kgomotso Phathlane is dedicated to achieve her karate dreams. The 18-year-old Gr 11 learner from Denga Tshivhase Secondary School joined Takalani Karate Centre in Muledane to learn morals, self-defence and self-discipline.
Kgomotso hails from Phiphidi Ndondola village outside Thohoyandou and started training karate in June last year.
“I took up karate because I used to be bullied, and karate skills will ensure I am able to defend myself. I work hard to remain fit and be able to learn more skills every day. I decided on karate instead of other sporting codes, because karate teaches morals.”
Her dream is to one day obtain a black belt.
“If I obtain a black belt, I will know that I have achieved what I set out to achieve in this sport. I learn a lot from sensei Takalani Mushavhanamadi, he is my role model and I believe that one day I will be just as good as him,” said Kgomotso.
She added that karate helps her to relieve stress and that the sport is a way to maintain good health. “My mind feels free when I am at the gym. Karate helps young girls stay away from substance abuse and keeps your body fit. I consider myself as one of the best karatekas at the centre and I am committed to the sport,” Kgomotso explained.
She said besides physical benefits, karate has also helped improve her self-esteem and build up her confidence. “Setting and reaching goals raises self-esteem. I also learn how to improve my coordination and I think everyone should take part in karate,” Kgomotso said and added there is a lot that one can learn from the sport.
“Karate is not only a sport, but an art form with lots of integrity and karate provides an opportunity to learn life lessons,” she concluded.
