Karate South Africa (KSA) presented Edenvale karateka Marinda Roetz with the 2024 Senior Sportswoman of the Year award and presented her with her Protea colours at an awards ceremony in KSA on 20 July.

She also received a second trophy for her participation in Ghana.

Roetz, 22, beamed and said she was proud to receive the award.

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“I started karate when I was four years old and have been competing for 14 years,” she says.

She said the award is a testament to her hard training and dedication.

“It’s amazing. I was so proud.”

According to Roetz, there is a lot of karate talent in South Africa.

“It is an honor for me to receive this award from all the talented people.”

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Roetz said that when she stood on stage, she was grateful that her parents were present at the awards ceremony.

“When I looked at them, I saw how proud they were. It reminded me how grateful I am that they are by my side and supporting me.

“It was a special moment to have my parents and family there. It made me realize that this award is not just mine, but the families and everyone who supported me.”

Roetz said she did not expect to receive the award.

“I was wondering who would receive the award this year,” she said.

“I know I worked hard, but despite that I never put any expectations on myself. I think it’s too much pressure and you’re disappointed when you don’t get chosen. I put my trust in God and believed that he would choose the right person.”

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According to Roetz’s father, Michael Roetz, she competed against older female karatekas from all over South Africa, from different styles and weight classes.

With the prize in hand, Roetz has set her sights on winning the Karate World Championships and the African Karate Federation Championships.

“I started training harder because I want to excel.”

She said she had won several medals in karate events over the past three years.

“I used to doubt myself, but once I started competing I realised I can win medals.

“I’ve had third place several times over the years, and that’s given me confidence that if I get third place, I can win gold.”

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Besides excelling in karate, Roetz also hopes to become a leader.

“I want to give hope to other karateka and make a difference by showing them that it is possible to excel and that South Africa has a talent that can compete on the international stage.”

She encourages aspiring karatekas to do their best, keep training as hard as they can and put time and effort into staying motivated.