What do you get when you combine art and athleticism?

Karate.

The Penn State Shotokan Karate Club hosted the ISK Collegiate Camp and Competition this past weekend at the White Building. Along with Penn State, individuals from Drexel, William and Mary, Bucknell, West Chester, Rochester, Penn College, Temple, and Pittsburgh competed in individual and team Kata and individual and team Kumite. The Kata portion of the competition involved forms while the Kumite was fighting. In addition to the competitors, the weekend brought together instructors some with as many as 30 years experience. Penn State enjoyed a successful tournament, placing in every event in which they participated. Overall the club placed second in Team Kata and Team Kumite and the women placed first in Team Kumite.

In a match of note, the Advanced Kumite championship match pitted Greg Hoplamazian (junior-speech communication) against fellow Penn Stater Ryan Jakovac.

"It's a lot of fun fighting against a teammate," Hoplamazian said. "The last time he won, but we're basically equal so you never know what will happen." The Camp and Competition provided an opportunity for the competitors to train with other schools. It created a sense of camaraderie amongst the competitors. Gina Raineri (junior - psychology/art), who captained the national team, shared Swanson's sentiments.

"Training with other clubs is great because you see the same faces everyday," she said. "Different styles enhance your thought."

Bob Hoffman, an instructor from the Chester County area with over 30 years of experience, explained that, "Karate is more than kicking and punching."

Hoffman pointed out that many of the instructors at one time competed in the collegiate ranks. Along with being an instructor, Hoffman's daughter, Kristen, took part in the tournament competing for the University of Pittsburgh.

Hoffman also explained that Karate is like a big family. Hoplamazian perhaps summed up the weekend best saying, "Overall it was a great experience. We got to train with different people, from different schools, and with different instructors."

This weekend's experience is sure to leave a lasting impression on all of those who participated.