Shattering stereotypes
MEET THE YOUNG WOMEN BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS
WOMEN in sport numbers have increased dramatically over the past two decades.
More women than ever are playing sport and support for major competitions is on the rise.
There however is an arena – combat sports – which still carries certain stigmas.
Glaring proof of this is the fact that while boxing has been part of the modern Olympics since their inception in 1896 – women were not allowed to compete until the 2012 London Olympic Games.
This is despite the fact that women have been involved in boxing for almost as long as the sport has existed – dating back to the 18th century.
Women worldwide however are doing their part to shatter the stereotypes surrounding their chosen athletic pursuits.
The Chronicle spoke to four Toowoomba athletes helping blazing a trail for others right here in the Garden City.
Meet the private school captain, former dancer, nurse and year 12 student with experience rivalling martial artists twice her age that proving anyone can find joy and fulfilment with a little discipline, passion and dedication.
LEKAYSHA WOODBRIDGE – BOXING
Following in her late father’s footsteps Lekaysha has been boxing for eight years.
Growing up around the ring it seemed inevitable that she would eventually “glove up” but it was ultimately her decision and there was no pressure.
“A lot my family were involved in boxing, but no one ever pushed me (to box),” she said.
“When I first came to Smithy’s (Gym) and tried it, I knew it was something I wanted to do.”
Despite the demands of juggling school work and training commitments Lekaysha has stuck with the sport due to how it rewards athletes.
“You need to have a good mindset,” she said.
“You need to spend the time and be dedicated to be a good boxer.
“But the harder you work the more opportunities you get.”
SAMANTHA VAN BREDA – BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU
The 22-year-old nurse’s BJJ journey began in February with a single step.
Having watched her partner train countless times at Ka-chi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Samantha made the decision to step over the threshold and onto the training mats.
“My parents always talked about martial arts while I was growing up. Mum was almost a judo black belt,” she said.
“I watched my partner train for months before I decided to take that next step.
“If anyone is thinking about it (BJJ) I’d say take that step. Ka-chi BJJ is a safe, supportive environment and I’ve really enjoyed learning and developing new skills.
“There are so many different pathways and opportunities to explore.”
On the mat Samantha loves the focus and dedication BJJ demands.
“You’re analysing so much data, reading your opponent and you have to be focused on the task at hand,” she said.
“It’s not about strength though.
“A much smaller opponent can control someone if they have the right skills and dedication.”
BELLE BERRY – MUAY THAI
Watching Belle “work a bag” is mesmerising.
The 14-year-old is quick, powerful and focused – a real natural – and her skills are all the more amazing when you consider her background.
Before taking up Muay Thai she flexed her muscles as a hip-hop dancer.
“It (dance) helps with my flexibility a lot, especially my head kicks,” she said.
“A lot of people are surprised when I tell them what I used to do before this.”
YouTube boxing and kickboxing videos captured Belle’s attention a few years ago and in December she began training at Spain’s Muay Thai Gym.
“I really enjoy seeing how far I’ve come,” she said.
“I’m stronger, fitter and my skills have improved a lot.
“Whatever it is, I think people should just try things until they find something they love.”
JORDAN MCLACHLAN – KARATE
Like most kids her age at the time, Jordan started karate because “mum and dad wanted my siblings and I to be able to defend ourselves”.
Jordan, 17, stuck with Toowoomba Koryukan Karate long beyond the self defence phase and now has her black belt.
“Being a smaller girl, my parents wanted my sibling and I to have self defence skills,” she said.
“I made the decision to stick with it on my own because I love it.
“I love the skills I’ve developed, I can basically flip someone twice my size, the confidence it has given me and the connections I’ve made with other people.
“I love being to come here at the end of a bad day and just focus on something I enjoy.
“It’s something anyone can do – you just need to make the decision to try.”