Taekwondo Club: Men's Captain

Hi, I’m Tim, and here is what I would do as Taekwondo Captain:

Bring energy to every training session. We all have bad days. Days where we feel like we’re running on empty. Those are the days when someone else has gotta bring the fire, and hand you the torch. I’ll always be there to get you going again. All you gotta do is show up.

Be there to support you. If you are experiencing any issues; physical, mental, or anything else, please come talk to me. I want to make sure you always feel safe and healthy.

Give taekwondo-specific advice. As a C-class fighter, I understand the importance of my own training. Over the past year, I have been absorbing a plethora of techniques and valuable lessons from our coaches. I will do all I can to give helpful and relevant advice to everyone who needs it. If I don’t know, I will find you someone who does.

Be a point of communication. Our coaches are the best. Reliable, friendly, and approachable. Even so, there might be things that you are embarrassed to ask or tell them. First of all, don’t be. Second, you can always come to me. I was in your shoes just one short year ago.

Taekwondo has become a large part of my world, a passion. I want to share that passion with as many of you as I can. I’ll see you in the ring.

Hey everyone! I'm Salem, a first-year Biochemist, and newly certified 'Poomslay Queen' - still trying to figure out the logistics on that one though! I would like to nominate myself for the position of Men's Captain next year due to the passion I have for the sport and my drive to ensure the success of the club. Although I've only been with the club for a few short months, I found myself instantly drawn to the positivity, energy, and electrifying atmosphere during training sessions and competitions; all characteristics I hope to sustain and expand upon over the coming year. I believe that my experience and attitude will allow me to undertake the responsibilities of this position whilst ensuring that each member has an enjoyable and worthwhile experience. Taekwondo has been a part of my life for the past 16 years... yes, you read that right, 16. I currently hold a second-degree black belt and specialize in ITF Taekwondo. I've competed at several competitions and served as a 6-time national referee which has allowed me to hone my technical skills and gain a better understanding of the sport. Paired with my athletic background and experience in resistance training, I aim to use my knowledge to help you both on and off the mat and turn you into a complete, well-rounded athlete through various types of training. I'm very excited at the prospect of working with the team next year to help bring more people into this niche, yet incredible sport and grow together as a community!

I believe that I am the best candidate for the role of Men's Taekwondo Captain as I am a 2nd Dan black belt in WT Taekwondo with many years of national and international experience. Some of my more notable achievements are: 

• Rank 2 in UAE -59kg men's Junior division 
• Former rank 5 in India -63 men's division
• A first-year student competing in BUCS with x1 silver and x1 bronze in -63kg men's division
• BUCS bronze in pairs poomsae 
• x1 Silver and x1 bronze in National British Taekwondo events (Ranked 3rd in Great Britain in -63kg men's division, according to February 2023 rankings)
• Competed in many international ranking (G class) events 

Prior to joining UCL, I took a gap year to further hone my Taekwondo skills. I have trained with many high-ranking international players from around the world including players from Korea and Iran. During my gap year, I also worked with promising B and C class athletes, often leading classes and coaching them during sparring. Therefore, I understand how to effectively coach beginner and intermediate players.

In the coming years at university, I aspire to compete in more significant international ranking events such as Asian Games, world championships, and hopefully the Olympics. But I also hope to lead the UCL Taekwondo in our future endeavors, hoping to lead us to student champions once again!