Bright karate future predicted for passionate Jared

With the heart of a lion and the moves of the Ninja Kid, Jared da Silva has big dream of becoming South Africa’s next karate wonder but, without financial support from governments and unions, he might just be another passionate sportsman whose dreams could be shattered.

Besides rugby, soccer and cricket where the money rolls in, other sporting codes seem to find it difficult to survive financially. Although there are many dojos and various tournaments taking place in South Africa, karateka find it tough to stay in the game without financial support. In some cases, children are not even recognised for their achievements in karate, and have to pay for their own kits or to compete in tournaments.

The question is, where is the support from government, schools and unions?

Jared da Silva, a 14-year-old and Grade 9 pupil from West Ridge High School faces this predicament. Although he has won a medal in every single tournament he has competed in since he started competing back in 2010, he has received little support from the bodies mentioned above.

The Record spoke to him about his passion for the sport. He explained that it was thanks to his granny that he first got involved in the sport.

“My dad suggested rugby, my mom suggested soccer and granny suggested karate, but because I am not a fan of team sports I took granny’s option and fell in love with it,” Jared told the Record.

“Karate has since been the only thing on my mind.”

Jared’s impressive medal tally so far includes six gold, three silver and seven bronze medals, with the one he is the proudest of being the silver medal that he won at Provincials.

This opened the door for Jared to compete in his first National tournament in December 2013. Unfortunately, the big moment was too big for the youngster and he was knocked out by the defending champion in the first round.

Training five days a week, eating and sleeping karate, Jared says that his ultimate goal with karate is to earn his SA colours. However, because of financial issues, this seems out of his reach as he will not be able to travel to the venues across the country and abroad to compete without continued financial support. He hopes though that a sponsor will reach out to him in future to enable him to realise his dream and fulfil his destiny. His long-term goal is to start his own dojo.

Jared’s father, Toni, told the Record that, “Because karate is not a well-supported sport in South Africa, it is difficult to pay the expenses. When Jared has to compete overseas for example, this has to come out of our own pockets.”

More about Jared:

• Started karate at the Palm Court Karate Centre in Weltevreden Park

• Currently a student at the Morgan Moss Wildcats Dojo in Luipaardsvlei

• He is currently on a blue belt

• Specialises in kumite

• His second and third favourite sports are cricket and athletics

The big question is, who will come to the rescue of passionate sportsmen such as Jared?

• Details: Toni 083 392 9209.