Following their performance at the 23rd UFAK Region South Karate Championships in Angola, the Namibian karate national team has shifted focus to the UFAK African Senior Karate Championships, scheduled to take place in Algeria later this year.
Namibian karate athletes have already started preparations for the continental championships following their campaign in Luanda, Angola, where the national team secured several medals at the regional competition.
Coach Warren de Jager and the technical team are now working on improving the athletes' readiness ahead of the championships in Algeria.
In an exclusive interview with NBC Sport News, senior karateka Keanu Stuurman said he is motivated ahead of his third appearance at the African Championships and is determined to improve on his previous performances.
"My first African Championship was in Durban, South Africa, where I finished 15th. The second one was in Morocco, where I finished ninth, even though I was sick that day. Going into my third African Championship, I am excited and motivated to improve on my previous performances. We only rested for two days after arriving back home, and I already started training again because this is the biggest competition of the year."
Stuurman said mental strength will be one of the key focus areas for the team during preparations.
He added that athletes need to believe in themselves when competing against other top karatekas on the continent.
He also highlighted the role played by family, coaches, and national support in helping athletes remain focused and motivated during competitions.
"Family support is very important because they motivate you every day, especially during preparation periods. Coaches are also important because you need to trust and understand each other. The support from the nation also motivates us a lot. We have talented athletes in Namibia, but many of us struggle financially, so we need sponsors to support karate and help athletes compete internationally."
Stuurman said his goal is to improve on his previous African Championship result and continue working towards future international competitions, including possible qualification for the Commonwealth Games.