By Siphiwo Dlamini
MBABANE- The 5th edition of the Next Generation Taekwondo Academy Championship, held last weekend at the Bosco Youth Centre, attracted over 300 athletes from a wide age range from children under 8 years to seniors above 17 years. This inclusive event featured competitions in Kyorugi (sparring), Poomsae (patterns), and team Poomsae, welcoming participants of all belt levels.
Mancoba Motsa, a taekwondo legend and respected coach, expressed his admiration for the event’s scale and professionalism. “The organization did everything in its power to ensure the championship’s success,” Motsa said. He highlighted the use of advanced systems typically seen at international competitions, including athlete weigh-ins, seeding, and match draws. “It was a first of its kind here, giving our local coaches valuable experience with international standards.”
The Bosco Youth Centre, the championship’s long-time home, was praised for its facilities. “We are forever grateful to the management; the centre is simply the home of this championship,” Motsa noted.
On the competition level, Motsa was very satisfied: “All athletes brought their A game. It’s now a norm that every team arrives well-prepared because they know the standard.” He also found the event schedule convenient but suggested there is always room for improvement.
Communication from the organizers received top marks. “I would give them a clean 10. Communication started months in advance, and they welcomed questions and ensured accuracy in athlete registration,” Motsa emphasized.
Refereeing and judging were deemed fair, with Motsa encouraging officials to attend the upcoming international referee course hosted by the Eswatini Taekwondo Federation later this year. “Officials are the backbone of every championship,” he said.
Safety was well managed with paramedics on standby, and Motsa advised clubs to maintain first aid kits due to the full-contact nature of taekwondo.
For future editions, Motsa urged teams to adhere strictly to time schedules to ensure the event starts and ends promptly. He concluded with gratitude: “Thanks to the organizers, officials, parents, and athletes. I believe the 6th edition will be even bigger and better. Shout out to Next Generation and Swazi Tigers Taekwondo academies for making this annual championship possible.”
(Courtesy Pics)
