Joseph Shiraaz, a clinical supervisor for Paediatrics at the University of Pretoria's Physiotherapy Department, has recently made waves in the martial arts world, securing both gold and bronze medals at the prestigious Asia Africa Cup organised by the Japan Karate Shoto Federation (JKS) in Dubai from September 14 to 16, 2023.

Shiraaz's journey in physiotherapy and martial arts is a testament to his unwavering dedication and commitment to both fields. Graduating as a physiotherapist in 2006 from the University of Pretoria, he embarked on a versatile career that included stints as a locum in private practices. Between 2010 and 2015, Shiraaz served as the sports physiotherapist for the Orlando Pirates, catering to both the premier league team and the Youth academy.

Joseph receiving the gold medal

Since November 2015, Shiraaz has taken on a role as an Educational Therapist at the ALMA school for Learners with Severe Intellectual Disabilities. This school also serves as a training ground for UP physiotherapy students during their paediatric neurology rotations. Notably, Shiraaz is deeply involved in a range of extra-curricular sporting activities tailored for learners with disabilities. As the current Head Karate instructor for Sakura Kai Disabled Karate, based at Alma School, he has played a pivotal role in empowering individuals with disabilities through martial arts.

In a heartfelt reflection on his recent achievements, Shiraaz reminisced about his early fascination with martial arts, kindled by movies like "3 Ninja Kids" and "Bloodsport." He noted that these films ignited his passion for martial arts, athleticism, and discipline. With a youthful enthusiasm that often led to amateur acrobatics in the backyard, Shiraaz's parents wisely channelled his passion by enrolling him in karate lessons. It was during this time that he imbibed the fundamental principles of karate: Character, Effort, Etiquette, Sincerity, and Self-control. These principles have remained with him throughout his life, providing structure and contentment during challenging periods of adulthood.

After a hiatus, Shiraaz resumed his karate journey at the age of 33, marking the beginning of an inspiring and relentless pursuit. He described this journey as one filled with passion, persistence, and personal growth, enriched with invaluable life lessons. Shiraaz expressed his gratitude for being selected by JKS South Africa to represent his country at the Asian-African Cup in Dubai as part of the preparation for the upcoming World Championship in Tokyo, Japan in 2024.

Bronze medal for Koten Kata

For Shiraaz, the highlight of this journey thus far was clinching the gold medal in Dubai, an achievement he finds difficult to put into words. Looking ahead, he eagerly anticipates the experiences and lessons that the World Championship in Tokyo, Japan, in 2024 will bring. In closing, Shiraaz invoked the Japanese term "Oss," derived from "Oshi Shinobu," which translates to "to endure even when being pushed." He emphasized the martial artist's resilience against the resistance of their own physical and mental limitations.

Shiraaz's remarkable story is a testament to the enduring spirit of dedication, passion, and personal growth, and it serves as an inspiration to both the physiotherapy and martial arts communities.

JKS SA Team with Medals