MOUNT BETHEL, Pa. (CBS) — Instructor Michael Todas says young women are changing the face of power sports like combat sports.
“They're not joking,” Todas said. “When they need to hit hard, they hit hard.”
His 13-year-old daughter Daphne is one of the hardest hitters, a black belt who is making a name for herself on the mat as she prepares to compete in two prestigious tournaments.
“As soon as I step on the mat I get into the zone,” Daphne says, “and then I lose sight of everything and everything becomes a blur.”
Daphne's physical skill and mental discipline have earned her a second place in representing the United States at the World Karate Federation World Championships, this year taking place in Monterrey, Mexico.
But first up was the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Karate National Championships, where Daphne placed second in 2022.
Daphne always had a winning attitude, and her father noticed this competitive spirit in his daughter from an early age.
“Some people are born to do certain things,” Toda said. “At 5 years old, she had speed and power that most kids her age didn't have, and she also had the memory to perform a variety of different kata.”
Daphne's father's Mount Bethel dojo, Method Karate, is a second home to her — and a place where she teaches little ninjas confidence and gives them the tools to protect themselves.
“They don't want any of them to get into trouble,” Todas said, “but sometimes they do get into trouble, and they have to be prepared for that.”
As Daphne continues to train every day, her father sits beside her admiringly, proud that his daughter is becoming a champion.
