Master Chris McCabe, 7th Dan, is one of the national coaches for Team Ireland along with Paul Manning, 5th Dan. “Both myself and Mr. Manning are world champion fighters. Mr. Manning will compete this year as well in the senior men’s welterweight combat division and also in the senior men’s team. We look forward to bringing our knowledge and experiences to the forefront of our team from Ireland.”
As Head Coach, he highlights that preparation is constant, not only before a World Cup like the one that is coming up, “I think that as Tae Kwon-Do students we are always preparing, from the day we entered the Dojang. We compete locally and internationally on a consistent basis. I encourage students preparing for a World Championship to participate in competitions that challenge them and take them out of their comfort zone.”
“All of the Team Ireland competitors have worked hard to get to this event, with a lot of dedication training with all the Team Ireland coaches across the country and competing nationally and internationally throughout this year.”
What expectations do you have for this ITF World Championship?
The Ireland team is a laid back but tenacious group and, as at previous World Championships, we strive to bring our best through youth, talent and experience. We also look forward to meeting our Tae Kwon-Do friends from around the world whom we have not seen face to face in a long time due to the pandemic.
Which countries do you see as the main entertainers of the competition?
There are many countries that will apply to be the main competitors this year due to the work done by each person and coach. There will be plenty of talent on display, but we will focus on our work ahead. We will wait for the draws and take each round as it comes. Our team is ready and will serve us well.
When referring to his team, Master McCabe prefers not to highlight any of the competitors. “It is not in my purview to single out any individual as our entire group is ready to go! I would say we are lucky with a high percentage of experienced competitors and previous World Championship medalists who have played a significant role in encouraging and improving the Team of Ireland, and in particular helped our youngest and first-time World Competitors enormously.”
On the development of Taekwon-do in Ireland, the Head Coach explains that “Tae Kwon-Do in Ireland is strong and will continue to grow under the leadership of our ITF President, Choi Jung Hwa” while highlighting the importance of ITF World Championships, “These championships are invaluable in highlighting the hard work, dedication and skill set of our martial artists across the various disciplines.”