Rolinda Uys shines at world kickboxing champs
Rolinda leaves her mark at world kickboxing champs:
Newcastle’s very own Rolinda Uys (14) is making a name for herself in the world of kickboxing and has already left her mark on the international stage.
She successfully represented South Africa, competing alongside 4 078 athletes from 79 countries at the 2026 WAKO Youth World Kickboxing Championships in Jesolo, Italy, this month.
We caught up with Rolinda to find out how she experienced her journey.
Tell us about yourself and how you got involved in kickboxing:
“I am 14 years old and I go to Ferrum High School. I started kickboxing with my brother.”
What did representing your country mean to you personally?
“It was an honour to represent my country.”
What were some of the highlights and what was it like competing against athletes from different countries?
“Being in Italy was an experience of a lifetime; learning how other countries fight and do things was amazing. I was terrified to compete.”
How did you prepare for the championship?
“We practiced three days a week. When we go to a tournament, we practice six days a week at the club and then still at home every spare second I had. I woke up at 5 in the morning to do some school work and learning. Get ready for school. After school, I practice at 6. I have to be at the club to practice there from 7 or 8, then I go home and do homework. I went to bed by 1 in the morning.”
How did you handle the pressure, nerves or any setbacks you experienced?
“The biggest challenge was to be prepared enough. The pressure I did not think of – I was very nervous.”
Who has played the biggest role in your kickboxing journey?
“My sensei, Hendrik Booÿse: Thank you for all the support and encouragement. Without you, I would not have achieved this achievement. My mom and dad, thank you for everything. The sheriken family, thank you for the support!”
Has competing at world championship level changed the way you see your potential in the sport?
“I learnt a lot; I want to practice even harder to be better to go back and win it.”
What are you most proud of about your journey so far?
“That I was able to go and do my best.”What are your goals for the future, both in kickboxing and beyond?”I want to become a professional kickboxer and be a world champ.”
The news provided to you in this link has been investigated and compiled by the editorial staff of the Newcastle Advertiser, a sold newspaper distributed in the Newcastle area. Please follow us on Youtube and feel free to like, comment, and subscribe. For more local news, visit our webpage, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and follow us on our WhatsApp Channel
