Monrovia – In a bold step toward rebranding and revitalizing the sport, the Liberia Taekwondo Federation (LTF) has announced the launch of a nationwide youth recruitment program, set to officially kick off on Saturday, November 8, 2025.
By Christopher C Walker 0777898224/0886723075 [email protected]
The program, which targets young athletes between the ages of 13 and 15, is part of a three-year development agenda aimed at grooming Liberia’s next generation of elite taekwondo athletes. Participants will undergo structured training two to three times per week, guided by certified coaches from Liberia, Africa, and potentially abroad.
A New Era Under Former Champion
Speaking at the program’s announcement, LTF President Master Pewee Russian himself a former national athlete said the federation is determined to bring Liberia in line with modern international taekwondo standards.
“Our objective is to catch up with the modern-day realities of taekwondo in terms of competition techniques and evolving rules,” Russian said. “We believe training young athletes now is the key to future success.”
Russian noted that many current national athletes are aging or burdened with family responsibilities, making it harder for them to compete effectively on the international stage.
The Federation is however appealing to the Government of Liberia, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Liberia National Olympic Committee (LNOC), and the general public for moral and financial support to ensure the success of the youth program.
“If we can gather and train these young athletes consistently over the next three years,” Russian pledged, “I can promise the people of this country that we will shine at any international competition even bring home a gold medal.”
Delayed but Determined
While the program was initially slated to begin on July 15, 2025, it was postponed due to unforeseen logistical challenges. However, the Federation says all preparations are now on track for the new November launch.
“We are not just training fighters,” Russian emphasized, “we are building ambassadors for Liberia who will represent our strength, discipline, and resilience on the global stage.”
The Liberia Taekwondo Federation has vowed to make this youth recruitment campaign a cornerstone of its national revival, laying the groundwork for long-term international competitiveness.
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