With 35 years of experience, a university degree in physical education, and a long journey from intuitive training to structured, strategic coaching, Mariano Molina is one of the most respected coaches in Spanish ITF Taekwon-Do. As Spain prepares to host the 2025 ITF World Championships in Barcelona, he shares his insight on what it means to compete at home, how he prepares his team, and why this event is both a professional and personal milestone.
For Molina, a World Championship is not just a competition—it’s an emotional whirlwind. “It’s like a party,” he says, “where for some, it’s the first experience, and for others, it’s a reunion with old friends.” Excitement, anxiety, frustration, and pride all come together in a melting pot of human emotion. And in 2025, this rollercoaster will take place in his own backyard.
Psychological preparation, according to him, is equally important as technical, tactical, and physical conditioning. “They must all be trained together,” he insists. Through workshops and one-on-one conversations, his goal is to help athletes feel mentally ready—because without confidence, even the strongest skillset can falter under pressure.
Molina is especially grateful that this year, travel logistics aren’t an issue: “This time, we’re locals. No need to adapt to time zones, food, or climate.” Still, for past tournaments, he always relied on early meal planning and supermarket runs to guarantee a stable routine for the team.
When things get tough during a match, he urges his fighters to be more aggressive, but always with control. And when emotions are high after a win or loss? “A hug,” he says. “Always a hug. First with the athlete—and then with my partner.”
What truly helps his athletes prepare for international opponents is the diversity found right at home. “Barcelona is such a cosmopolitan city that I often have students from many countries, some of whom have trained elsewhere.” His team also travels to tournaments across Europe, gaining experience against various styles and adapting through regional-specific drills.
Reflecting on his career, Molina can’t pick a single turning point. Rather, he credits continuous learning and evolution over time. But if he could go back and talk to his younger self? “I’d tell him to study. Learn how to train, plan, and strategise—not just train blindly with intuition.”
Looking ahead to the event, Molina is especially proud of Spain’s chance to host. “It’s a unique opportunity to show the world our Taekwon-Do, and to enjoy one of the most beautiful cities during a very special time.”
