Wexford Taekwon-Do brought a successful and memorable year to a close with its annual Christmas Party and Awards Night, held on 22 December at St Joseph’s Community Centre. The event provided an opportunity for students, families and instructors to come together to celebrate not only achievements on the mat, but the collective effort and support that underpins the club throughout the year.
The evening marked the culmination of a particularly active year for Wexford Taekwon-Do, with students of all ages progressing through the colour belt system, competing at local, national and international events, and developing both technically and personally. From the club’s youngest members taking their first confident steps in Taekwon-Do, to senior students representing Ireland on the competitive stage, 2025 was a year defined by commitment, growth and resilience.
Throughout the year, Wexford Taekwon-Do students represented the club at major competitions including the Munster Open, Dublin Open International, Irish National Championships, Mater Franks’s Crystal Classic, and events connected to the ITF World Championship pathway. Across these competitions, students achieved podium finishes in patterns, sparring, power and special technique categories. For several participants, these events marked their first-ever tournament experiences, an important milestone that reflects courage, preparation and growing confidence.
Beyond competition success, the club placed strong emphasis on education, development and leadership. Instructors and senior students continued their professional development through national seminars, instructor courses and internationally recognised coaching and breaking credentials. This ongoing commitment ensures that Wexford Taekwon-Do maintains high technical standards while fostering a safe, supportive and structured learning environment for all members.
A central highlight of the Christmas celebration was the presentation of the club’s annual Student Awards, which recognise not just performance, but the core values of Taekwon-Do — courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit. Awards on the night included:
- Student of the Year – Kids Club: Eve Sutherland
- Student of the Year – Junior: Emmy McCaffery
- Student of the Year – Senior: Alex Frayne
- Ye Ui (Courtesy) Award: Finn Burke
- Yom Chi (Integrity) Award: Dawn Jugessur
- In Nae (Perseverance) Award: Mr Ger Brennan
- Guk Gi (Self-Control) Award: Beck Ó Máirtín
- Baekjul Boolgool (Indomitable Spirit) Award: Ronan Winters
These awards reflect the club’s belief that progress is measured not only by belts and medals, but by character, attitude and effort.
The Christmas gathering also recognised the many students who advanced through their grades during the year, including several who achieved Dan Black Belt promotions — milestones that represent years of dedication, discipline and perseverance. These achievements are the result of consistent training, but also of the encouragement and practical support provided by families behind the scenes.
Speaking on the night, instructor Mr John Barry (3rd Dan) highlighted the vital role families play in the club’s success:
““This evening is about recognising far more than medals or belts. It’s about effort, perseverance, respect and community. Every student here has contributed to the success of the club this year, and we are extremely proud of what they have achieved together.
Founded in 1973, Wexford Taekwon-Do continues to be an important part of the local community, now training 90 students aged from 4 to 60 across its Wexford Town and Murrintown locations. The club prides itself on providing an inclusive environment where students and families can grow together through martial arts.
As the club looks ahead to the coming year, the Christmas celebration served as both a reflection on achievements past and a reminder of the shared values that continue to guide Wexford Taekwon-Do forward.
For more information about training or membership, visit wexfordtaekwondo.com.
Award recipients pictured at the Wexford Taekwon-Do Christmas Awards Night, held at St Joseph’s Community Centre. Back row (left to right): Finn Burke, instructor Mr John Barry, Ger Brennan and Alex Frayne. Front row (left to right): Beck Ó Máirtín, Eve Sutherland, Emmy McCaffery and Dawn Jugessur. Not pictured: Ronan Winters, recipient of the Baekjul Boolgool (Indomitable Spirit) Award.
Wexford Taekwon-Do 
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