Taekwondo Ireland has opened the new year with a powerful display of development, inclusion, and community spirit, following a successful visit to TKD Tyrone in Omagh, Northern Ireland.
The visit came after an invitation from coach Mr Martin O’Hare, who, alongside his daughters, operates several highly respected Taekwondo clubs across Tyrone. The event welcomed more than 150 students, giving them a rare opportunity to experience elite-level Olympic Taekwondo training and competition preparation.
Olympic-Level Training for Grassroots Athletes
Taekwondo Ireland Development Coach Leroy Nsilu Dilandu led the session, introducing athletes to modern Olympic Taekwondo techniques, competition structures, and high-performance training methods. The focus was not only on physical skills, but also on understanding the standards and discipline required at international level.
Supporting the session were Taekwondo Ireland representatives Martin Fleming and Brenda Mahon, alongside athletes Yeva, Evelina, and Dyzile, who assisted with PSS (Protector and Scoring System) competition setup and practical drills. Their involvement allowed young athletes to gain hands-on experience with the same systems used at major international tournaments.
Sport with Purpose: Charity at the Core
Beyond technical development, the event carried a strong social mission. All proceeds and funds raised by the club were donated to The Saturday Club, a local charity that provides respite and support for children with disabilities.
The initiative raised $5,496, highlighting how martial arts clubs can serve as powerful platforms for positive social impact. Organisers noted that, alongside the funds raised, the event also helped forge new friendships and strengthen ties within the wider Taekwondo community.
Reflecting Taekwondo Ireland’s Mission
The Omagh visit aligns closely with Taekwondo Ireland’s mission and long-term vision as the national governing body for Olympic-style Taekwondo in Ireland. Recognised by World Taekwondo, the Olympic Federation of Ireland, Sport Ireland, and the European Taekwondo Union, the organisation continues to focus on inclusive growth, athlete development, and club support.
By combining elite-level education with grassroots engagement and charitable giving, the event exemplified Taekwondo Ireland’s strategic objectives — developing clubs and coaches, increasing participation, and supporting success on the world stage.
As 2026 begins, initiatives like this set a strong tone for the year ahead, reinforcing Taekwondo’s role not only as a competitive sport, but as a vehicle for community building, discipline, and shared values across Ireland.
