Karate, kids’ style

By Shaquana Nelson

Photos and video by Shaquana Nelson

Best Practice High School

Amina Allen took her first karate kick at age 8. Following in her younger brother’s footsteps, she was fascinated by the technique, art, style and--most of all--coolness of martial arts. Allen has learned a lot about karate in the last two years, enough to have won 2d place in her category at this year’s United States Karate Alliance World Championships in Dallas, Texas. Allen is 10 and competed against kids from all over the world. She is eligible to compete next year in New Mexico and is looking forward to it. She says karate helps with her self-esteem and posture and self-respect. We caught up with Allen (accompanied by the head instructor of her school, Ray White, founder of The Pagoda Self-Defense Academy in Midlothian, Ill.) a week after she won her world championship in Dallas.

Why did you get involved with karate?
First my brother started and I used to watch. Later I thought it would be cool to do it so I started.

Why did you choose Mr. [Ray] White’s school out of all the other karate schools?
Because I liked it. I saw other schools but I liked his better.

What are some of your other hobbies?
I like to read and I like to practice with my brother.

What did you think about the “Karate Kid” movie that just came out?
I thought it was different from ours. It’s fun . . . but it’s kind of the same.

Is karate something you want to do for the rest of your life?
I just want it to be apart of my life.

Did you expect to win 2d place in the World Karate Championship?
I did because I practiced hard for this . . . and you have to win the other fights to be in first and second place.

How often do you go to karate class?
Two times a week.

Do you have any idols who practice karate?
I really look up to Master Roften. He is my sensei. That’s basically someone that’s ahead of you, someone that teaches you.

Who is your toughest opponent?
My sensei . . . because he blocks all of my punches but sometimes I get a chance to hit him in the chest. But most of the time I don’t get a chance to.

Are the lessons that you learn in martial arts used in other areas of your life, such as school or different areas of your life?
Yes . . . when someone grabs you out on the street, you know what to do and get out of it.

How would you handle a bully?
I would push the kids away, but if they still are bothering me then I use some of my moves on them.

Would you like to be a legend in martial arts like Jackie Chan or Taimak Guarriello?
Ummmmm......no, not really.