DYRS and Dimapur Excel at 36th State Taekwondo Championship

Kohima, India Jul 31, 2026 ALN: The 36th Kyorugi and 1st Poomsae State Taekwondo Championship 2026, along with the Under-14 “Catch Them Young” Tournament, concluded at the Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, on July 30, bringing together around 500 taekwondo athletes, coaches, and officials from across the state. This event not only showcased the skills and talents of young athletes but also highlighted the growing popularity of taekwondo in the region.

The championship was a significant occasion for the Taekwondo Association of the state, serving as a platform for athletes from various districts to compete and demonstrate their abilities. The event featured both Kyorugi, which is a sparring competition, and Poomsae, which involves performing a series of movements and patterns. These disciplines are essential components of taekwondo and are recognized worldwide, contributing to the sport's global appeal.

In the competition, Kyorugi Team Championship Team DYRS (Directorate of Youth Resources and Sports) emerged as champions, while Dimapur secured the first runners-up title and Wokha finished as the second runners-up. This outcome reflects the competitive spirit and dedication of the athletes from these teams, as well as the effective training programs implemented by their respective coaches and sports associations.

In the Poomsae Team Championship, Dimapur claimed the championship title, with Kohima finishing as the runners-up. The success of Dimapur in both categories underscores the district's strong commitment to nurturing taekwondo talent and providing athletes with the necessary resources and training to excel in the sport.

Speaking as the special guest at the closing ceremony, Inspector General of the Assam Rifles (North) Major General Harinder Singh Mavi lauded the Taekwondo Association (NTA) for their efforts in promoting the sport in the state. He encouraged the athletes to give their best and perform with dedication, noting that taekwondo offers numerous opportunities, including sports quota recruitment even in the armed forces. This acknowledgment from a high-ranking military official highlights the potential pathways that martial arts can provide for young athletes, particularly in terms of career opportunities in various sectors.

Major General Mavi also appreciated parents for encouraging and supporting their children to pursue the sport, stating that the youth are the architects of the future. His remarks emphasize the crucial role that family support plays in the development of young athletes, as encouragement from parents can significantly influence a child's commitment to sports and overall success.

Urging the participants to remain humble, he said true sportsmanship is reflected in humility and a willingness to help others. He advised the athletes to stay grounded in victory and use every success as motivation to work harder and aim for greater achievements. This message serves as an important reminder that while competition is essential, the values of respect, integrity, and community are equally vital in the world of sports.

The championship featured competitions across multiple categories, including the Under-14 “Catch Them Young” Tournament, which aims to strengthen grassroots participation and nurture future champions. This initiative is particularly important as it seeks to engage younger generations and instill a passion for taekwondo at an early age. Organised by the Taekwondo Association in collaboration with the Department of Youth Resources and Sports, the championship sought to promote taekwondo while identifying and developing young talent through Kyorugi (sparring) and Poomsae (patterns) events. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Taekwondo Association vice president Visabiu Peseyie, who acknowledged the hard work of all participants and the support of sponsors and volunteers.

TCA’s Anayah Strikes Gold
Mawatongla Anayah Yaden, a student of The Combat Academy (TCA), won a gold medal at the State Taekwondo Championship held at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima. Competing under the banner of the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), Anayah clinched the title in the Sub-Junior Under-47 kg category. Her victory is a testament to the effectiveness of the training programs available in the state and showcases the potential of young athletes in the region.

She trains under coach D. Khuwoto Assumi through The Combat Academy’s Kids Taekwondo Programme and delivered a strong performance to secure the top podium finish. The academy's structured training approach focuses on developing not just technical skills but also mental resilience and sportsmanship, which are crucial for success in competitive environments. Congratulating the young athlete, the academy said Anayah was among the first students to enrol in its Kids Taekwondo Programme, launched for children below the age of 13. This early start has likely contributed to her rapid development and success in the sport.

The academy attributed her success to her dedication, discipline, and consistent training over the past year. Anayah's achievement is significant not only for her personal growth but also for the academy, as it reinforces the effectiveness of their training methodology and commitment to fostering talent. The academy also expressed confidence that Anayah’s achievement would inspire more young athletes to take up taekwondo and strive for excellence in the sport.

As the popularity of taekwondo continues to grow, events like the State Taekwondo Championship play a critical role in providing athletes with competitive experience and exposure. Such competitions also contribute to the overall development of the sport in the state, encouraging more individuals to participate and pursue their athletic goals. The involvement of local authorities and organizations in promoting taekwondo is essential for ensuring the sustainability and growth of martial arts in the region.

Looking ahead, it is crucial for the Taekwondo Association and other stakeholders to continue their efforts in nurturing young talent, providing adequate training facilities, and organizing regular competitions. By doing so, they can create a vibrant taekwondo community that not only celebrates achievements but also fosters a culture of discipline, respect, and perseverance among its members. This foundation will be vital for the future of taekwondo in the state and for the athletes who aspire to compete at higher levels, including national and international competitions.

In conclusion, the 36th Kyorugi and 1st Poomsae State Taekwondo Championship has not only highlighted the remarkable talent present in the state but also served as a platform for inspiring the next generation of taekwondo practitioners. With continued support from parents, coaches, and local organizations, the future of taekwondo in the region looks promising, paving the way for more athletes to achieve their dreams and make their mark in the world of martial arts.