2008 Woodie Awards
Karate kicks in tournament
Jose Marte
Issue date: 5/27/08 Section: Sports
The De Anza College Invitational Karate Tournament took place May 18 in the main gym. At least six members of the De Anza Karate Club competed alongside students from West Valley College, Foothill College and Santa Clara University.
Unlike the Karate Kid or other sensationalized martial arts epics, there wasn't any blood spilled and defeated opponents weren't carried away on stretchers. The competition was far more civilized but just as intense.
The tournament was broken down into two main events: Kata and Kumite. "Kata" is a Japanese word that translates to "form." It is an individual event where the participants follow a choreographed pattern of movements and attempt to perfectly execute a series of punches, kicks and stances.
The other event, Kumite, is sparring against an opponent. Although Kumite appears to be fierce combat, it is of paramount importance not to inflict injury.
Only beginners injure each other, says massage therapy major Dann Jumasoas, because they aren't able to control their power and speed. In this event, contact must only be equivalent to a touch.
Karate is more than just athleticism. "The discipline required in karate extends to all aspects of life," said purple belt Natalie Javid, studying in the medical technology field.
"It has changed my life," said William Feng.
By practicing karate, Feng feels both a physical and mental change. He believes that karate provides calmness during crises and allows one to be in control of his emotions and actions.
Jose Marte is a staff reporter for La Voz. Contact him at josemarte@lavozdeanza.com.
Unlike the Karate Kid or other sensationalized martial arts epics, there wasn't any blood spilled and defeated opponents weren't carried away on stretchers. The competition was far more civilized but just as intense.
The tournament was broken down into two main events: Kata and Kumite. "Kata" is a Japanese word that translates to "form." It is an individual event where the participants follow a choreographed pattern of movements and attempt to perfectly execute a series of punches, kicks and stances.
The other event, Kumite, is sparring against an opponent. Although Kumite appears to be fierce combat, it is of paramount importance not to inflict injury.
Only beginners injure each other, says massage therapy major Dann Jumasoas, because they aren't able to control their power and speed. In this event, contact must only be equivalent to a touch.
Karate is more than just athleticism. "The discipline required in karate extends to all aspects of life," said purple belt Natalie Javid, studying in the medical technology field.
"It has changed my life," said William Feng.
By practicing karate, Feng feels both a physical and mental change. He believes that karate provides calmness during crises and allows one to be in control of his emotions and actions.
Jose Marte is a staff reporter for La Voz. Contact him at josemarte@lavozdeanza.com.
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