From High School Beginner to National Taekwondo Coach: A Journey of Perseverance and Passion
"In life, sometimes the paths we embark on are not the ones we initially planned. They twist and turn, presenting us with challenges and opportunities we never could have imagined. My journey with Taekwondo is a testament to this truth—a story of how a chance encounter in high school blossomed into a lifelong passion and a successful career.It all began with a simple invitation from a friend. "Just try kicking on these pads," they said. Little did I know that that innocent invitation would shape the course of my life. Before I realized it, a month had passed, then a year, and I found myself fully immersed in the world of Taekwondo.
In 1997, I became part of the pioneering group of the Sorsogon State College Taekwondo Club. From there, my journey took me to Intramurals, where I proudly earned the Bicol gold medal and qualified for Palarong Pambansa. Though the national stage eluded me at that time, it was only the beginning of my Taekwondo story.
Throughout my college years, I continued to excel in Taekwondo, becoming a three-time gold medalist in the SCUAA. Despite the absence of national games during my tenure, my dedication remained unwavering.
A turning point came when I joined the Philippine Navy & Marines Camp, thanks to my uncle's connections. Here, I was privileged to train exclusively with soldiers' family members. My skills and dedication caught the attention of the Navy & Marines Taekwondo Team, leading to my inclusion in their ranks.
From 2002 to 2005, I proudly represented the Navy Taekwondo Team, competing in the lightweight category. It was during this time that my career soared to new heights. Winning the Gold Medal in the National New Face 2005 Advanced Division was a crowning achievement, followed by silver medals in prestigious championships.
Despite my success, I faced a dilemma—balancing my passion for Taekwondo with the expectations of my family and society. But I refused to let go of my dreams. I embraced Taekwondo not just as a sport, but as a way of life—a source of health, stress management, and personal growth.
My journey took yet another turn when I transitioned from athlete to coach and referee. Today, I share my love for Taekwondo with others, teaching at public and private gyms and mentoring aspiring athletes. It's a fulfilling role—one that allows me to give back to the sport that has given me so much.
Looking back, I realize that my journey with Taekwondo has been about more than just winning medals or achieving accolades. It's been a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and unwavering determination. And through it all, I've learned that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.
To those who may be hesitant to pursue their dreams, I offer this advice: Embrace the unknown, seize every opportunity, and never underestimate the power of perseverance. Your journey may not always be easy, but it will be worth it in the end.
In the end, Taekwondo isn't just about kicks and punches—it's about resilience, discipline, and the indomitable spirit to overcome any obstacle that stands in your way. So, lace up your dobok, step onto the mat, and let your journey begin.
Remember, the path to success may be paved with challenges, but with the right mindset and unwavering dedication, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. So, what are you waiting for? The journey awaits—embrace it with open arms and let your passion guide you to greatness."
-Roland Diaz, 28, Sorsogon State College, Sorsogon City, Philippines
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