Payton urges young Fijians to embrace Taekwondo

Young people in Fiji are being encouraged to take up Taekwondo, with a United States (U.S) Embassy official saying the sport develops discipline, confidence and respect both on and off the mat.

U.S Embassy public affairs officer Strader Payton made the call after taking part in a basic Taekwondo skills session during the Try a Sport Programme, organised by the Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (FASANOC) at Albert Park last Saturday.

"I think Taekwondo is one of the greatest activities you can encourage your children to do," Mr Payton said.

"It teaches discipline, agility and physical fitness."

Payton, who trained in Taekwondo from the age of 11 to 16, said the sport had a lasting impact on his life.

"I was obsessed. I went to the dojang about four days a week," he said.

"I had my second-degree black belt by the time I finished."

He said Taekwondo was about more than physical fitness.

"It teaches respect," Payton said.

"I look forward to taking my daughter to Taekwondo classes when she's older."

Returning to the sport during the FASANOC programme brought back fond memories of his younger years.

"Taking part today reminds me of the really great memories I had when I was training in Taekwondo back in America," he said.

Payton said the martial art helped young people develop confidence as well as respect for others.

"Confidence in how you move and carry yourself, but also respect," he said.

"It makes me happy and proud to have those experiences when I was young, and it's good to see it being continued with the younger generation in Fiji."