HOSTS Dominican Convent School are expected to dominate the 8th edition of the Dominican Convent Clash of the Titans Karate tournament which roars to life this Saturday at the Veritas Sports Centre in Mabelreign, Harare, featuring junior karatekas from the Southern Africa region.
The event now nearing a decade continues to grow from strength to strength and this year’s edition will not see less than 10 schools participating and a few other individuals.
Dominican Convent School Director of Sport Farai Kanyenze who is a perfectionist, has promised a great tournament that mirrors who they are as an institution.
“We expect the event to be more organized in terms of starting time. We have always had challenges with athletes registering upon arrival and this takes up most of the event time. We have informed schools and individuals to enter their events online earlier and make payments directly to the school to avoid delays. Obviously, we always have those few who miss communication or who just then decide to participate last minute,” said Kanyeze.
The Dominican Convent School is the oldest school in Harare and has been in existence for the past 127 years, participating at the prestigious Clash of the Titans karate tournament is a privilege that many want to be extended to them.
Whilst many karatekas have entered the tournament through their schools, however the tournament criteria rewards individuals and the tally of overall medals won by schools representatives is just purely for academic purposes.
“We are expecting more than 10 schools and quite a few individuals, we do not have an overall cup, we only have individual prizes. This depends on individual prowess and numbers contribute too. Last year Dominican Convent Harare scooped the most medals and this year with more than 30 athletes participating we anticipate the same,” quipped Kanyeze.
The tournament does not serve as a qualifier to any local, regional or international event but the Dominican Convent hierarchy have used their exposure to regional and international tournaments to replicate what they have seen during those tours.
“Our tournament is one of its kind in the country. It’s a replica of the international tours we participate in as well in terms of how we run the tournament. We have authentic officials and equipment, and we also invite athletes from neighboring countries thus Namibia, Botswana, SA and Zambia. Athletes are guaranteed a high level of competition not only from local athletes but from elite regional Karatekas too,” she added.
Karate teaches girls many valuable lessons such as self-defense skills, resilience and perseverance, among others.
Girls who practice karate learn the importance of dedication, regular training, and setting goals. These skills can be translated into other areas of life, such as academics or personal pursuits.
Kanyeze however was more in the self-confidence quality which allows the girls to learn to trust their abilities, believe in themselves, and overcome challenges. This newfound confidence can then positively impact other areas of their lives, helping them to take on new challenges with determination.
“We have really achieved a lot. Our ladies have benefited a lot since the time we introduced Karate in the school. They have gained confidence, self-discipline, high defense skills and social skills,” she said.
The Sports boss at Dominican Convent also proffered her advice to parents who are not sure if their kids should take up karate: “Confidence is gained and rightfully earned in karate for girls. One way is in working toward goals like belts and then feeling the accomplishment of work well-done, that fulfillment is priceless. Also, the girl child earns confidence by gaining the ability to physically protect themselves, we are living in a cruel world. It is imperative that the girl child learn to protect themselves from abusers who take advantage of the weaker sex. When you know you have that ability to defend yourself, you can fearlessly go into the world and focus on enjoying the moment and working on your achievements.”
The Catholic church run institution believes in building a holistic individual, always striking a balance between sporting, cultural and academic performance. For in a healthy body comes a healthy mind.
