KUALA LUMPUR – In the pursuit of success, having a supportive family as an unwavering pillar can make all the difference.
Former national karate exponent Mathivani Murugeesan stands as a testament to this truth, having overcome societal backlash to achieve greatness in her sport, all thanks to her family’s steadfast encouragement.
Through her dedication to empowering young girls, she transforms them into future leaders, using the sport that defined her own identity.
Speaking to Scoop, Mathivani emphasised the pivotal role her parents played in nurturing her dreams, recounting the sacrifices that paved the way for her triumph in the sport.
“The inception of my career posed challenges, as I encountered criticism for venturing into a sport traditionally associated with men.
“Despite numerous setbacks, my resilience stemmed from the unyielding support of my parents. Their fervent desire for my success propelled me forward. Without their support, my journey would have been incomplete.
“Engaging in sports from a tender age, I meticulously balanced academics and training sessions. Recognising the transformative power of sports, I envisioned it shaping me into a disciplined individual, ready to face life’s challenges.
“It brings me immense joy to witness a surge in young women embracing this sport. Their interest extends beyond self-defence, seeking to mould themselves into resilient individuals. I am committed to empowering these young women by imparting my knowledge, and contributing to their growth,” said Mathivani.
The 34-year-old, a gold medallist in the kumite women’s team event at the 2017 Kuala Lumpur SEA Games, is currently a mathematics and chemistry teacher at the LSL International Academy in Puchong.
The Universiti Putra Malaysia graduate rejected several offers to train elite athletes and shifted her focus to teaching classes for those interested in venturing into the sport, emphasising grassroots lessons.
“I currently have 11 students with me, and my youngest student is four-years-old. My job as a teacher can sometimes be a 12-hour shift, and it can be exhausting. However, my passion and love for sports always make me forget about my exhaustion and motivate me to give back to my students through my knowledge.
“When I see my students performing at a good level, it brings me a lot of joy and rekindles memories of how I used to train during my younger days.
“I want to train as many young students as I can so that one day they can reach great heights. They could also be scouted by state associations and the national team, and it will be easier for them to adapt since I have trained them with the basics.
“I will continue to do my part to develop as many talents for this sport so that one day they can grow up to win medals and make our country proud. But most importantly, I want to give my 100% in building a well-disciplined generation,” Mathivani added.
Mathivani retired from karate in 2022 after competing in the Asian Karate Championships in Uzbekistan.
Malaysia finished 13th out of 15 countries in the overall medal standings with two bronze medals coming from Prem Kumar Selvam in the 55kg men’s kumite while Arif Afifuddin also finished third in the 84kg men’s kumite.
The following year, Arif went on to clinch the gold medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games in the men’s kumite below 84kg category by defeating Kazakhstan’s Daniyar Yuldashev with a decisive score of 10-4. – January 14, 2024