Dorfman Karate champ’s journey to second dan at the KWF SA Championships
Matthew Pine, a rising star in South African karate, has already made an impressive impact, earning a second Dan black belt and dominating at the KWF SA Championships with multiple medals.
When Matthew Pine first walked into the Dorfman Karate, Parktown North, dojo at six years old, he was a small boy with big aspirations, encouraged by his parents who believed karate would teach him self-defence and instil confidence.
Thirteen years later, Matthew is a decorated martial artist, recently achieving his second dan black belt and medalling in multiple categories at the Karate World Federation South Africa (KWF SA) championships.
Training with dedication under sensei Malcolm Dorfman Malcolm and sensei Shane Dorfman in Melrose, Matthew has grown from an eager child into a determined and focused athlete. Early influences such as senpai Grant Booysen and sensei Nick Baker served as role models, igniting his passion for karate. “I wanted to be like them one day,” Matthew recalled.
While his love for kata came naturally, kumite presented challenges. Yet, driven to excel, he trained with senior karatekas who shared invaluable insights into fighting techniques. His preparation for the recent grading was rigorous; beyond karate practice, he focused on cardio and strength training to enhance stamina and power. The effort paid off, leading him to win gold in both kata and jiyu ippon kumite and silver in kumite in his first year competing in the Men’s Black Belt open division.
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One of his most memorable moments was facing sensei Kevin Meso, a respected third dan and friend. “Competing against him was an honour,” Matthew said. The championship also marked a personal victory after missing last year’s event due to injury and matric exams. “All the hard work and juggling of training, work, and studying paid off.”
The future looks bright for Matthew, who hopes to compete internationally at the KWF World Cup and WSKA Championship in 2025, a goal his sensei believes he’ll achieve. Dorfman describes him as ‘a hardworking, humble young man’ who has been a South African junior champion for years and now shines in the senior ranks. His loyalty and contributions to dojo demonstrations underscore his dedication.
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Karate has profoundly shaped Matthew’s life, teaching him self-discipline, resilience, and the art of balance – skills that extend beyond the mat. Reflecting on his journey, he shares advice for younger karatekas. “Karate gets difficult, but don’t give up. Keep training, and aim to be better each day.” And with that steady focus, Matthew is poised not only to become a formidable competitor on the world stage but also a sensei who will inspire generations to come.
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