The Karate South Africa (KSA) national squad held a training session at the Sasol Recreational Club on June 13, bringing together students from across Mpumalanga to prepare for upcoming national and international competitions.

The training was also streamed live online, allowing students unable to travel to Secunda to participate in and benefit from the session remotely.

The intensive training was part of the build-up to the National Open Championships in Durban from July 16 to 17.

The event will serve as the final selection opportunity for athletes hoping to represent South Africa at the Union of African Karate All-Africa Championships, which will be held in Algeria later this year.

Leading the session were experienced Protea coaches Shihan Peter Stegman from the Northern Cape, Sensei Sandile Makwali from the Free State and Sensei Meagan Smith from Gauteng.

They shared advanced techniques, tactical insights and competition experience with the participating karateka.

The training benefited not only the Secunda club but also karate development across the province.

Students from Secunda, eMbalenhle, Evander, Kinross, Witbank, Ermelo and Piet Retief took part in the session.

By bringing together athletes and coaches from different regions, the training helped improve skills, build confidence and raise the standard of competition in Mpumalanga.

The knowledge and experience shared by the Protea coaches are expected to strengthen the province’s athletes as they compete nationally and pursue international selection.