8 February 2025
Photo credits: John van der Sandt Sensei
Contribution credit: Desirée Fourie and Kaylee van der Sandt
WSKF-SA are out of the blocks and off to a flying start with the monthly Black Belt Training following short on the heels of the National Instructors seminar and Gala Dinner. February training was hosted by Kuro-Obi Dojo, Vanderbijlpark. Karateka were privileged to receive instruction from Andrio Lombaard Sensei (6th Dan).
It is said that “proper preparation prevents poor performance” [James Baker] … WSKF-SA has embraced this philosophy as can be seen in the organisation's directive to, during the next 8 months, screen all those karateka who would attempt Dan grading in 2025. This measure allows for continuous feedback to those who wish to grade, since they will be in the training spotlight and senior instructors can pay closer attention to these students and the development of their techniques and abilities.
With that in mind, Black Belt Training focused on elements of the grading syllabi and on aspects of Jiyu Ippon kumite. Since all karateka who attempt Dan grading are expected to know and effectively perform the Jiyu Ippon Kumite combinations in the WSKF syllabus, an increased focus on this component is imperative during the forthcoming months of preparation.
A substantial number of scholars and young adults attended the training. When asked for their perspectives on the training session, some of the comments from the group was the following:
“Our first black belt training of the year was an intense and focused karate session, with a strong emphasis on grading basics and the (building) blocks for kumite. It was an exhausting yet rewarding start to the year, setting the tone for disciplined training and continued improvement.
Thanks to all the other dojos for attending the training and to Andrio Sensei for teaching”.
“This weekend's Black Belt Training was super fun. We focused on the grading syllabus (from Shodan to Sandan), and corrected techniques that have changed and those techniques people generally struggle with.”
If we truly believe that “the youth is the future”, it is vital that we also listen to their views, consider their experience of the karate we practice and teach, and do our utmost to engage with the generation that will take the organisation into the future.
“James Baker, (President George H. W. Bush’s former Chief of Staff), wrote a book about his grandfather starting a law firm. Baker’s grandfather gave all those young lawyers five points to remember – they’re called the five ‘P’s: Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance.”
In the kihon component, Mike Shihan explained and demonstrated how the focus on hip activation and -rotation changes the dynamics of movement, as opposed to an erroneous focus on feet placement. Various linear and rotational combinations were practiced, giving students an opportunity to experience the theory.
he substantial number of competitors travelled from across South Africa to represent their respective dojos in this event. Similarly, officials from the respective dojos offered up their time to assist with the smooth running of the event.
During the intercession, spectators were treated to a showcase performed by 
WSKF-SA karateka are fortunate, therefore, that they face an Executive Examination Panel comprised of kind-spirited, gracious people who not only strive for excellence in the practice of the art of karate, but who also have compassion for the struggles karateka face in their continuous search for more knowledge and deeper understanding through the vehicle of Dan gradings.
Despite the inevitable mix of success and failure, karateka were relieved that for this year, Dan Grading Day had passed.
