The 2025 U-17 Lycee Français Louis Pasteur (LFLP) National Taekwondo Championship has been hailed as a new benchmark for grassroots sports development in Nigeria, following a vibrant and well-attended competition that attracted 28 teams and over 220 young athletes from within and outside the country.
Thursdaline Peter, CEO of Body Dynamics and event coordinator, described the championship as a “huge success” that showcased “discipline, character, and the rising standard of youth martial arts in Nigeria and West Africa
“This championship was not just about competition—it was about building character, encouraging discipline, and creating lifelong memories for the next generation of champions,” Peter said.
The event which took place on June 14 2025 at the Basketball court of Lycee Francais Louis Pasteur school has a total of participating Teams: 28 schools and clubs with 220 boys and girls under the age of 17 in 10 divisions crossword of weight categories
A total of 20 Gold Medals was awarded to outstanding athletes while coaches were also awarded.
The Special Recognitions are Best Coach, Best Referees, and other honours and as follows :
Best Coach: Coach Anyanwu Chase – Honoured for exemplary leadership and athlete development.
Best Female Referee: Ms. Rufai Olufunke – Recognized for fairness and professionalism.
Best Male Referee: Djanykpo Kodjotse (Togo) – Commended for integrity and effective officiating.
Top-performing teams included international invitees like Atlantic Team (Togo), alongside strong local outfits such as Team Executive Self Defense (ESD), Bloomy Berries School, Pee Vee School, LFLP Taekwondo Team.
“We saw exceptional discipline from the athletes and a strong sense of sportsmanship throughout the event. It was truly international in spirit and execution,” Peter added.
Over 200 spectators, who largely parents who cmae out to give emotional supports to their kids and wards attended the championship.
Among the spectators are school authorities, dignitaries, Taekwondo fans.
Media professionals, Naija Taekwondo Media Team provided coverage for the event.
The event adhered to the highest safety and officiating standards where electronic scoring systems were employed and video replay ensured fairness.
According to Thursdaline the seasoned Taekwondo coach, and administrator highlighted the key Impacts as follows:
Strengthening School Sports Culture – Reinforces the role of schools in developing youth sports.
Empowering Young Athletes – Gave first-time competitors a platform for growth and exposure.
Bridging Cultures – Fostered cultural exchange through a bilingual, diverse sporting environment.
Raising Competition Standards – Elevated the quality of local youth tournaments using international standards.
Encouraging Collaboration – Built networks among schools, clubs, and parents for future cooperation.
Talent Identification – Identified prospects now being monitored for advanced development.
The 2025 LFLP U-17 Taekwondo Championship was not only a sporting triumph but a cultural celebration and a strategic push for youth empowerment through martial arts. Its success sets a clear standard for future school-based championships in Nigeria and across the continent.
“This is more than sport—it’s a legacy project,” Peter concluded. “We’re building tomorrow’s champions today.”
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