Karate Club 2012

Wits Karate is one of the most active university Sport Clubs, with its existence on campus dating as far back as the 1970s. Originally karate is a Japanese martial art, where the word Karate translated from Japanese means “Empty Hand”. Hence, our teaching incorporates demonstrating self-defence using the human body in the most scientific and effective way of generating power within a person.

In 2011, the Club has attracted more members from different styles: Shotokan, Kyukoshin, Gojo Ryu and others, thus multiplying our dojo (place of training for karatekas) in numbers. We have two dedicated instructors, developing and sharpening students. There are no requirements whatsoever for one to join karate, as the general misconception. Through systematic training, Karate develops and strengthens mental and physical fitness; develops concentration and co-ordination; improves reflexes and strengthens the will and aim at building character. The Club is affiliated with the South African Japanese Karate Association (SA JKA), while incorporating other styles.

Club Performance, 2011
The Wits Karate took fourth place in the Karate Syndicate Championship, held 21 May 2011 at the Old Mutual Sports Hall, leaving with 17medals: 3 Gold, 4 Silver and 10 Bronze. The club represented the university at the USSA championship held 2nd-3rd July 2011 in Cape Town, despite its clash with exams. We could only send a small team given the timing. The team did its best and returned with 3 medals: 1 Silver and 2 Bronze.

On 12 November 2011, Wits Karate entered the SA JKA Elite-Seniors & Veterans Championships (based on WKF rules) as their own independent dojo for the first time in the history of Wits Karate since its establishment; a huge feat in itself. Not only did the team make history through their entry but they also dominated within their divisions collecting 5 gold medals (Werner Mutaleni, Kevin Marais, Andrew Hank, Nqobile Dludla and Sheena Vengethasamy), 5 silver and 13 bronze medals between men and women’s kata and kumite (fighting).To prove that Wits Karate is under excellent leadership not only did the team excellently represent Wits, but our Sensei’s (teacher in Japanese), Sensei Andrew Els and Sensei Alex Sacarollha, also entered the tournament in the Men’s Elite Kumite both attaining silver medals in the Men’s Open Elite over 75kg and Men’s Open Elite Under 75kg respectively. With 23 medals under their belts for a national karate tournament Wits Karate has a bright future ahead and is only getting stronger. OSU!

Our Mission
To teach and demonstrate self-defence, develop spirit in karate and build character amongst our members.

Our Vision
We aspire to become the best dojo we are capable of becoming.
For more information on the club contact:

Join us during training at O.M.S.H. on Mon, Wed & Fri every week between 13h15-14h00.
Contact us at: witsdojo@gmail.com or Chairperson Andrew Hank on 092 441 0521.