The Waterbrook School, situated in Chevron Alternative Route, Lagos, recently hosted a taekwondo grading championship that showcased the impressive skills and discipline of its young pupils. The event, held on a Saturday, was a resounding success, with students from various belt levels participating and demonstrating their prowess in the martial art. This championship served as a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals, emphasizing not only academic excellence but also physical and mental development. The vibrant display of talent underscored the effectiveness of the taekwondo program and the dedication of both the students and their instructors.
The grading championship was organized in collaboration with Master Gideon Asanam, a highly respected figure in the taekwondo community, holding the rank of 6th Dan Nigerian WT Kukkiwon 3rd Dan and serving as a WT International coach. The Nigerian Black Belt College and the Lagos State Taekwondo Association also played key roles in the event’s execution, ensuring adherence to established standards and protocols. Master Asanam emphasized the championship’s aim to instill proper taekwondo standards from the grassroots level, addressing a perceived gap in the understanding and appreciation of the martial art’s significance, particularly among younger practitioners. The event aimed to rectify this by providing a structured and rigorous grading system, ensuring that students progress through the belt ranks with a genuine understanding of the skills and values associated with each level.
This grading championship formed part of a larger initiative to reintroduce traditional taekwondo values into school curricula. Master Asanam stressed the importance of inculcating martial arts ethics from a young age, highlighting the positive impact on character development. The integration of taekwondo into the school’s extracurricular activities reflects the school’s belief in the holistic development of its students, recognizing the benefits of physical discipline, mental focus, and respect for oneself and others. The event showcased the students’ enthusiasm and dedication, reinforcing the organizers’ belief in the transformative power of taekwondo in children’s lives. The success of the championship demonstrated the potential for similar initiatives to revitalize interest in traditional martial arts values within educational settings.
Coach Tega Ekure, the sports instructor at The Waterbrook School, articulated the multifaceted benefits of taekwondo for young practitioners. Beyond physical fitness and self-defense skills, the sport cultivates discipline, respect, and time management skills. The rigorous training regimen instills a sense of responsibility and commitment, preparing students for challenges both on and off the mat. Coach Ekure expressed optimism about the future of the school’s taekwondo program, highlighting the exceptional talent among the young students. He envisions their participation in national competitions in the coming years, a testament to the quality of training and the dedication of both the students and their instructors. The program’s success is attributed to the alignment of taekwondo’s core values with the school’s overall educational philosophy.
Parental support for the taekwondo program has been overwhelmingly positive, with many noting significant improvements in their children’s behavior and self-confidence. Tito Agada, a parent whose daughter participates in the program, praised the positive impact of taekwondo on her child’s self-esteem, discipline, and focus. She acknowledged her daughter’s passion for the sport and expressed her commitment to supporting her aspirations within taekwondo. This parental endorsement underscores the perceived value of the program and its contribution to the overall development of the participating children. The shared enthusiasm between parents and students strengthens the program’s foundation and fosters a supportive environment for continued growth and achievement.
The students themselves expressed genuine enthusiasm for their taekwondo training, highlighting the enjoyment and sense of accomplishment derived from mastering new skills. Niola Ipinjolu, a Year 4 pupil, shared his excitement about the sport, describing the exhilarating experience of breaking boards with a kick. Such firsthand accounts illustrate the intrinsic motivation and sense of achievement fostered by the program. The students’ passion for taekwondo reflects the program’s success in creating a positive and engaging learning environment. The championship provided a platform for them to showcase their dedication and progress, reinforcing their commitment to the martial art. Further emphasizing the school’s commitment to the program, Waterbrook’s Director, Amenawon Nengite, was honored with an honorary black belt by KMS GM, Kehinde Salawo, for her contribution to the development of taekwondo at the grassroots level. This recognition highlighted the school’s leadership role in promoting the martial art and its values within the community. The event’s success cemented the school’s reputation as a center for holistic development, nurturing not only academic excellence but also physical discipline, respect, and self-confidence in its students.
