30/08/2026
RISING STARS 3 ⭐️🥋
As a coach, some competition days leave you thinking about medals and results. Others leave you proud of something much bigger.
I was incredibly proud of our ITL team during the Rising Stars 3. The improvement in our athletes’ fighting was clear, but what impressed me most was their courage — especially our debutants stepping onto the mat for the very first time.
I loved seeing our athletes supporting one another, celebrating victories, picking each other up after defeats, and the incredible support from parents, families and friends.
A huge thank you must go to our volunteers. They were the foundation of this event — from refereeing and equipment management to countless jobs behind the scenes. One of our helpers was only 8 years old. Because of people willing to give their time, Malta’s athletes have regular competitions, a stage to showcase their talent, and something meaningful to work towards.
For ITL, coaches Czarek and Ditmir took great care of our team while Gianluca, Romano and Jovo helped manage the event via organization and/or refereeing.
Big respect also to Strive coach Mauro — managing his team, helping wherever needed throughout the day, and then leading by example on the mat as a veteran competitor and former Malta national player. 👏
And ultimately, the day belonged to the athletes.
From 5 to 40 years old.
From -18kg to +87kg.
White belts to black belts.
Novices to advanced fighters.
Debutants to national players.
They faced the nerves, fear and doubt of centre stage — shook hands, fought, hugged afterwards, and walked through it together.
To all the winners, congratulations. 🥇
And to those who didn’t get the result they wanted — don’t be discouraged. Because one competition result is just a snapshot in a long, long movie.
Proud of you, always ✨
Iron Taekwondo League
Malta Taekwondo Association
30/08/2026
25/08/2026