There’s no substitute for passion
By Michael Ronquillo Ryan Jeffery, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth, will be competing for his third Dan black belt in Funakoshi karate this month in Winklespruit, South Africa.
If the self-motivated super student passes the test, he will be able instruct karate anywhere in the world. This black belt examination is by no means easy for anyone due to the rigorous fighting portion included in it. For Jeffrey, however, it will all be worth it since he considers himself not only able but moreover, meant to be an instructor. He is well respected by his peers and sensei. "He works very well with young children- they are drawn to him," explains Jeffrey’s sensei, Christo Botha. Jeffrey’s illness was more of a gift than a curse, since it has never prevented him from being independent and achieving his dreams. In fact, his life story is nothing short of inspirational. He started taking karate when an instructor opened a dojo at the Open Air School in Glenwood, which catered to the disabled. Jeffrey enjoyed practicing karate tremendously and incorporated its philosophy into all aspects of his life.
By the time he finished high school, Jeffrey had a brown belt. He continued on with his karate training, earning his black belt in 1991 and second degree black belt (Dan) in 1995 while distinguishing himself as a top level karate practitioner. Naturally, his success came with some limitations because of his condition. Jeffrey suffered from loss of muscle control and balance on his right side, forcing him to find alternative methods for daily tasks, such as unscrewing bottle caps. These limitations affected his karate training as well.
Certain aspects of his karate training were slightly modified to accommodate Jeffery's weakened right side. Regardless, he has been pushed as hard as any other able-bodied student. The only thing that Jeffrey doesn’t participate in is competitions.
"I don't fight in competitions because I will always be at a disadvantage, but I do spar during my training," said Jeffrey.
Aside from his upcoming examination, Jeffrey is for the first time training for the South African karate championships in Newcastle this year.
Jeffrey and his sensei are also going to negotiate with Karate South Africa and their local government officials about the accommodation of handicapped people at future karate events.
"It's sad that there's never a division for handicapped people in karate," said Botha.
Those who are interested in helping or sponsoring Jeffrey can contact him directly at (084) 566 0927. Related articles: Benefits of Judo for the Blind Combat Obesity in Children with Martial Arts
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