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Issue #23

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The New Zealand Disability Karate Association Newsletter

Winter 2024

KIA ORA!

Welcome to the thrilling Winter issue of the New Zealand Disability Karate Association newsletter!

We know it's arriving a bit later than usual, but we've been hard at work bringing the final instalment of the Rainbro Adventure Series to life just in time for Christmas. It's shaping up very nicely, and we can't wait for you to see it!

Rest assured, the Spring issue will be hitting your inbox in October.

Our Second Self-Defence Evening

The club hosted an exhilarating free self-defence class on Wednesday, 21st August, replacing our usual second session. It was open to everyone, and we encouraged members to bring along friends and family for the experience.

I can't wait for the next self-defence evening!

Kiwibro in a gi

Participants enjoyed practical demonstrations and plenty of opportunities to try out the techniques in a safe, supportive environment. No prior karate knowledge was needed to dive into this thrilling class.

Our Inaugural Tournament!

Saturday 13th July marked a historic moment as we hosted our very first tournament, and what an incredible day it was!

Our tournament logo

A massive thank you goes out to everyone who took part, you made it unforgettable. A special shout out to the dedicated officials who ensured everything ran like clockwork; without your tireless efforts, this event wouldn't have been the success it was.

The day's highlight? The mesmerizing demonstrations by Sensei Will Cooper. His katas left the crowd in awe, and many participants were utterly blown away by his mastery.

Thank you for being part of this milestone, and we can't wait to see you again at next year's tournament!

The Zombie Apocalypse

Prepare yourselves, because on the 30th of October, our dojo transforms into a battlefield of the undead!

Zombie Little Blue

Dress up in your most fearsome Halloween costume, and brace yourself for the ultimate test of your karate skills. Will your strikes be powerful enough to hold back the relentless zombie hordes?

Do you have what it takes to take down a zombie with a single, devastating blow? This Halloween, it's not just about survival—it's about proving you're more than just a snack.

But beware, it's not just zombies lurking in the shadows... There are whispers of a T-Rex on the prowl! Can you master your kata before a dinosaur joins the fight?

Join us for a night of spine-chilling fun with gooey lollies and ghostly games. This is not just a class, it's a fight for your life!

What's Outside the Box

Get ready for What's Outside the Box on Saturday 14th September. An inspiring expo designed for disabled individuals in the Wellington region and their families!

What's Outside the Box logo

Discover exciting opportunities for life beyond secondary school, from education and employment to hobbies and social connections.

We're thrilled to announce that the New Zealand Disability Karate Association will have a stall where people can learn about the benefits of karate. Doors open at 10am, don't miss out on this chance to explore a world of possibilities. We can't wait to see you there!

Here is a link to the expo's website.

What's Outside the Box

Who has graded?

There has been two gradings since our last newsletter.

We have 8 new members, some have already graded to yellow belt. The remaining white belts are likely to grade before the next newsletter.

In our club there are now

  • 15 white belts (10th kyu)
  • 13 yellow belts (9th kyu)
  • 24 orange belts (8th kyu)
  • 1 green belt (7th kyu)
  • 6 blue belts (6th kyu)

What is coming up

Our plans for the next quarter

  • Publish the final book in the Rainbro series.
  • Approach local bookshops to see if they would consider selling the Rainbro series.
  • Finish work on the new information pack for schools and local businesses.
  • Start planning for next year's tournament.
  • Submit requests for grant funding.
  • Have a stand at the "What's Outside The Box" Expo.
  • Remember you can invite your friends along to class.

Look out for the Spring issue and feel free to share this newsletter with your friends.

Membership is free and open to anyone who wishes to take part in the martial arts training offered by the club. All the details are on our website. www.karatedojo.nz

Ngā mihi