KU Karate Club will host tourney
By MIKE RIEKE
Kansan Sports Writer
Now in its third year here, the KU Karate Club is "flexing its muscles" and planning to host a tournament later this month.
Max Muller, the club's head instructor, said the KU organization—which competes with professional academies and other karate clubs-is becoming nationally recognized. Members have won karate titles in both regional and national tournaments.
The KU club has scheduled its own Jayhawk Karate Tournament for February 23 in the Community Building, 11th and Vermont. In addition to the 20 KU members participating in the journey, Muller expects about 60 other contestants from four states.
Enrolling now
While preparing for the meet, the club has been enrolling new members. Any KU student or faculty member can join when the club meets Wednesday and Thursday nights at 7 o'clock in 211 Robinson.
Enrollment must be closed at the end of next week to insure smooth progress in the instruction, Muller said. The $15 dues cover the instruction fees and diplomas.
Muller, a first-degree black belt, explained that the origin of karate is disputed. The version he accepts attributes the origin to Daruma Taishi.
Taishi, a Buddhist monk, moved from his native India to China where he was appalled by
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the poor physical condition of the monks. The exercises Taishi devised to firm-up the monks are the forerunners of modern karate.
Karate first gained popularity in the United States about 20 years ago, Muller stated. It is growing fast because it is fast-moving, potentially dangerous, and can be mastered by a person of any size, explained Muller.
Injuries unusual
Muller pointed out that although karate can be dangerous, injuries are unusual and minor.
Different styles of karate emphasize different techniques. Tae Kwan Do concentrates on foot techniques. Kempo stresses the hands. Muller teaches Shorei Kan Goji-ryu, which emphasizes form and style. All three styles consist of form and style, hand and foot techniques—but each concentrates on a certain area
All karate styles stress control of the body and control of the mind. Karate makes the best scientific and physiological use of the body and body movement, says Muller.
"All students of karate strive for complete control of self," said Muller. "The poise and calmness they learn from the sport should extend to any situation. It helps in social contacts and makes the student more out-going."
Women also learn
The club also offers self-defense instruction for women. Muller started this course last year when he found that some women could not keep up with the men in karate. He arranged a separate meeting for them, 6 to 7 p.m. Thursdays.
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