Rising Solomon Islands Taekwondo athlete Fred Valentina has officially departed the country yesterday morning to represent Solomon Islands at the 2025 World Taekwondo Championships, taking place from October 24–30 in Wuxi City, China.
Valentina will compete under the banner of the Solomon Islands Taekwondo Federation (SITF), alongside Head Coach Junior Maetia, who has been guiding the young athlete through months of intensive training in preparation for the world-class event. The championships bring together elite athletes from around the globe, making it a significant step for both Valentina’s career and Solomon Islands Taekwondo.
This international exposure is part of SITF’s long-term vision to elevate local athletes to global standards. The federation also sees this event as a key milestone in building towards the 2027 Pacific Games and long-term goals such as Olympic qualification for Los Angeles 2028.
SITF Head Coach Junior Maetia said the opportunity to compete at the world level is a result of dedication and long-term planning.
“Our goal has always been to bring Solomon Islands athletes to the world stage, to give them exposure, experience and the opportunity to grow into top athletes within Oceania,” said Maetia.
Coach Maetia noted that their aim is for Valentina to reach high-performance scores, 80 points and above, which would support Olympic qualification pathways. SITF’s Head Coach also highlighted the importance of competing internationally to raise the level of local athletes.
“The competition will be tough, but it is a great opportunity for Solomon Islands to improve and perform at an international standard,” said Maetia.
Coach Maetia thank SITF President Joses Duddley for successfully negotiating sponsorship from World Taekwondo (WT) for both athlete and coach, and expressed appreciation for the logistical support provided by the National Sports Council (NSC) and the ongoing training assistance from Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS).
On Valentina’s preparation and commitment, Coach Maetia said Fred has shown great progress.
“Fred has shown great progress. He is young, fit and quick in his reactions. We have focused on developing his skills, tactical strategies, scoring combinations and countering techniques. He is extremely committed, training from morning to evening at SINIS. I have seen real improvement in his strength and execution,” said Maetia.
Maetia also acknowledges sponsors and family support.
“Special thanks to David Leong for sponsoring our team outfits. I also thank our families, Fred’s and mine, for their continuous support despite challenges, including public criticism. These experiences only make us stronger,” said Maetia.
Before departure, SITF athlete Fred Valentina shared his confidence and readiness ahead of the biggest competition of his career.
“I am excited and ready to represent Solomon Islands at the World Championships. My goal is to perform well, score points and try to prevent my opponents from scoring,” said Valentina.
Fred Valentina added that the intensive training at SINIS has prepared him well.
“Gym sessions have built my strength, skill work has improved my technique and balance, I feel fully prepared for Wuxi,” said Valentina.
Fred Valentina thanks Coach Maetia, SITF, Team Manager Linda Kakai, SINIS staff, teammates and everyone supporting him.
“It has been a tough journey, but I will do my best representing Solomon Islands and try to deliver good results,” said Valentina.
