In Abu Dhabi, a unique sports club is making waves in the world of martial arts. TKD Oryx Taekwondo, a Filipino-founded taekwondo club, stands out not just for its expert training programs but also for its deep-rooted connection to the Filipino community. Catering to a majority of Filipino children who are residents of Abu Dhabi, the club is the first of its kind in the capital, offering taekwondo training to all ages.
Head Coach Mean, the driving force behind TKD Oryx Taekwondo, shares with The Global Filipino Magazine the club’s journey and its distinct approach to martial arts training.
“What’s unique about our team is, first, all coaches are Filipino; second, we are driven by love and passion for this sport; and thirdly, the coaching team shares the common goal of producing players who will eventually surpass us, the coaches,” Mean explains.
This ethos of passion, dedication, and community support forms the backbone of the club’s success.
The inception of TKD Oryx Taekwondo traces back to 2017 when the team began offering free outdoor classes. Within three years, the club has grown into a full-fledged training center, nurturing talent from as young as 3 years old to adults with no age limit. The segmentation of classes by both age and skill level ensures that each member receives personalized training, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
The benefits of participating in TKD Oryx Taekwondo are manifold, particularly for Filipino children. Improved physical fitness, discipline, self-defense skills, and enhanced self-confidence are just a few of the advantages. Moreover, the club provides a platform for cultural appreciation and personal growth, encouraging children to spend less time on screens and more time engaging in a friendly community.
TKD Oryx Taekwondo’s members have showcased their skills and dedication by participating in and winning numerous local and international competitions.
“We have already participated in and won numerous local competitions here in the UAE for both main events of Taekwondo, which are Kyorugi and Poomsae. We also have experience participating in and winning international competitions during the pandemic in Bangkok, Thailand, and Seoul, South Korea,” Mean highlights the club’s achievements.
With their eyes set on upcoming local and international competitions, the team is undergoing rigorous training to continue their winning streak.
Beyond physical training, the sports club in the capital emphasizes camaraderie and teamwork. Group training sessions, partner drills, and team activities foster a sense of belonging and mutual support among members. A dedicated group chat allows players to assist each other with academics, further strengthening their bond outside the dojo.
Cultural integration is another aspect where the club shines. By incorporating the Filipino language and traditional gestures like the ‘mano’ into their training, the club helps bridge the gap for Filipino children who may not be fluent in their native language. The ‘CLAYGO’ (Clean As You Go) rule instills a sense of responsibility and respect for shared spaces.
For those considering joining TKD Oryx Taekwondo, Coach Mean offers encouraging words: “Coming and joining your first class for free is worth trying! Parents do not pay for Taekwondo, but the benefits and principles it instills in your children make it a lifetime investment.”