New York, November 4, 2024 – The recent Traditional Karate World Championship in Cambrils, Spain, held from October 23 to October 27, saw an extraordinary performance by Michael Y. Pietroni, an Italian-Israeli athlete who clinched two gold medals. We reached out to Michael to discuss his accomplishments and gain insights into the journey behind his success. With both warmth and passion, he shared the importance of community support, rigorous mental preparation, and the unique discipline of kata, which brought him victory in both the individual and synchronized events.
Here are the key moments from our exclusive interview with Michael, who emphasized that his achievements stem from far more than physical training alone.
A Win Made Possible by Dedication and Community
“Winning is always special, but getting there is a journey built on sacrifices and support,” Michael shared. Behind the two gold medals lies not only his personal commitment but also the encouragement of a community that believed in him from the start. “The Rokah family and their sport center in Netanya have been much more than a training space,” he explained. “At Rokah Karate House, I found an environment rooted in values like discipline and persistence, which are fundamental in karate.”
Mental Preparation: Michael’s Insights on Working with Coach Livio Sgarbi
When asked about the importance of mental preparation, Michael spoke about his work with Livio Sgarbi, a renowned mental coach. “It was essential, especially in traditional karate, where concentration and emotional control mean everything,” he explained. Smiling, he added, “Livio’s guidance has been invaluable. The techniques he taught me helped me stay clear-headed, even in the moments of highest pressure, something crucial for competitions of this caliber.”
Michael described how his mental training sessions gave him the ability to handle his emotions and stay focused under challenging circumstances. Livio Sgarbi, a coach known for his work with legendary soccer coach Carlo Ancelotti, provided him with tools that shaped not only his athletic performance but also his outlook on life. These techniques have made a lasting impact on how Michael approaches both the sport and his goals beyond it.
Kata: The Art and Discipline of Karate
We also discussed the significance of kata, the heart of karate, and the event in which he won both of his golds. “Kata is much more than a series of moves,” he explained. “It’s a symbolic battle, a way to achieve harmony between mind and body.”
Each kata move requires years of dedicated practice, and Michael views it as a form of art: “It lets me challenge myself in a constant inner struggle, and that’s what makes kata so special.” He spoke passionately about how kata serves as a pathway to self-improvement, bringing a sense of balance and discipline into his daily life.
A Message for Young People and Karate’s Future
When asked what this victory means to him, Michael shared a message for younger generations: “Medals are recognition, but the real victory is what karate has taught me. I hope more young people find in this discipline a way to grow and face life’s challenges with determination and calm.”
Michael closed the interview with words of optimism for the future of karate and its role in youth development: “Karate is much more than a sport; it’s a way of life and a school of values that can deeply enrich the lives of new generations.”
Michael Y. Pietroni’s victories in Cambrils are a triumph that goes beyond the medals. Thanks to his community’s support and the inner strength he cultivated with the guidance of mentors like Rokah family and Livio Sgarbi, Michael has shown that karate is not merely competition but a journey of personal growth and balance.
