TWO PRODUCTS of Tameside Karate Club are aiming to put England on the map at a prestigious competition – but they need the community’s support in achieving their aim.
Jack Wilson and Danni Williams, who are trained by Senseis Julian and Sharon Mallalieu, have previously represented England in various countries and are hoping to continue their journey at the European Karate Championships in Georgia from February 9-11.
However, with karate being a self-funded sport, Jack, 20 and Danni, 19, require financial assistance to cover travel fees, accommodation costs and expenses for the trip.
The decorated athletes, who will be competing in the Under-21 Kata category, have a wealth of experience in major competitions and have high hopes of returning with silverware.
Jack, a Commonwealth bronze medallist, is currently ranked 17th in the world in the male division whilst Danni, a Commonwealth gold medallist, is ranked fifth in the female category.
Although the competition marks the next step in the athletes’ journey, it more importantly enables them to move up the official world rankings table and, in the process, enhance their ultimate dream of reaching the highest level in the not-too-distant future.
But, with the competition taking place in soon, there is a race against time to meet the financial requirements and reach the £1,500 target.
Speaking to The Correspondent ahead of the Championships, Sensei Sharon outlined her frustration at the lack of financial support the athletes receive.
She said: “We find it ridiculous that the sport, at this level, is entirely self-funded. To represent England in a different country, with no financial support, is quite frankly disgraceful.
“They’re having to raise £800 each to proudly wear the three lions on their chest. They have the potential of returning with medals and subsequently putting England on the map – it just seems ridiculous that they’ll get no help whatsoever.
“We also believe that it will have a detrimental impact on aspiring athletes, as they’ll see a financial barrier and, in the process, be deterred from competing.
“At the end of the day, you’ve got to travel abroad and compete to move up the leader board. There are no two ways about it – it has to be done.
“The funding issue is a major complication and a real concern. How can families in such positions finance these trips with no help?
“Asking for help on the internet is extremely frustrating and not something we would like to do, but in order for our athletes to compete it’s a necessity.”
Although Jack and Danni will go head-to-head against the best talent in Europe, Sharon insists that they are not travelling to make up the numbers.
In fact, she believes both students have the ability, mindset and skills to deliver success and return home with medals.
And if the pair do achieve their objectives, Sharon is certain that more people in Tameside will take an interest in the sport.
She added: “Of course it will be tough for Danni and Jack, as they’re competing against the very best in Europe, but they have complete faith in their abilities and are working tirelessly to be in the best shape possible.
“Myself and Julian have trained Jack for more than a decade – he was always naturally gifted with a real endeavour to improve himself.
“Danni has the very same qualities – she’s very determined and dedicated to achieving something special.
“If things go to plan, we can see both Jack and Danni reaching the world stage. Danni is currently ranked 68th in the world, while Jack is ranked 117.
“They make no secret of their intention of reaching the top 10, so hopefully, if they continue with the same work ethic as they currently do, it will materialise.”
With the competition edging ever closer, Jack and Danni are fully immersed in a rigorous training regime which sees the pair undertake four to five sessions per week with Sharon and Julian, along with a tailored gym plan to fine tune their fitness.
Not to mention part-time jobs and other responsibilities which are sandwiched in between.
And while their intention is to impress at the European Championships, the pair also have lofty ambitions of competing at a future Olympic Games – but only if the sport returns for selection.
Unfortunately, Karate was not chosen for this year’s event which is taking place in Paris from Friday, July 26 to Sunday, August 11.
Sharon described its absence as gut-wrenching and believes karate’s lack of inclusion could have a detrimental impact on youngsters.
She said: “For the sport not to be included for the games in Paris is bitter blow. Karate isn’t just about punching and kicking, it fosters discipline and respect that every child needs to mould them into strong and confident adults.
“Jack and Danni are walking examples of what the sport produces. They garner peoples’ respect and give it in return. We certainly think the sport deserves more credit than it currently receives, so hopefully It will return to the Olympic stage in the future.
“Ultimately, we’re extremely proud of Jack and Danni, but that goes for all our students who come to the club with the key aim of bettering themselves.
“We have some students who aren’t naturally gifted and sometimes struggle, but they still give everything they’ve got and strive to improve. It’s such a joy to see their efforts rewarded when they pass their belts.”
You can donate to Jack and Danni’s fundraiser via the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/lets-get-jack-danni-to-the-european-championship
Alternatively, if you would like to sponsor the pair contact Sharon by emailing sharon.mallalieu@yahoo.co.uk.
We fully understand that we have to support Jack and Danni as Osita-ha karate, so we will do so.
We would like to help for Jack and Danny and their mentors Julian and Sharon.