The ITF has successfully concluded a special International Instructor Course (IIC) for Ukraine, conducted online via Zoom under extraordinary circumstances. Originally planned to take place in Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, the course was moved online due to the ongoing war, making this only the second online IIC in ITF history, following the exceptional edition held during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the IIC should continue its effective teaching nature through courses held in person, this IIC was only open to members of the Ukrainian ITF community.
The course was officially opened by ITF President Grand Master Paul Weiler, who welcomed all participants and expressed the Federation’s full support for the Ukrainian ITF community. He was joined by Grand Master Hector Marano, Chair of the ITF Technical and Instruction Committee, who addressed the instructors with words of encouragement and emphasized the importance of continuing education, unity, and technical standards even in the most difficult of times.
Participation Marked by Resilience and Commitment
A total of 120 Ukrainian instructors took part in the seminar. From the very first session, the level of engagement, discipline, and professionalism was evident.
The significance of this achievement was underscored by the fact that on the first day of the course, the Kharkiv region and city in the Ukraine was subjected to another wave of massive missile attacks accompanied by widespread power outages. Despite these harsh realities, participants remained determined to attend the sessions, continue their education, and improve their qualifications. On the second day, the difficulties originated mostly from power outages that affected heating: the temperatures in many regions in the Ukraine went in the night before below -20°C and in some places even during the day only little above -10°C. Consequently, several groups asked especially for active elements of this online IIC to heat up the participants, gyms, and homes.
Their presence online under such conditions was a powerful demonstration of resilience, responsibility, and unwavering dedication to Taekwon-Do.
High-Level Instruction and Structured Programme
The two-day course delivered a comprehensive and well-structured programme, tailored to instructors of different grades. Instructions were led by Grand Master Jerzy Jedut and Grand Master Pierre Laquerre, whose experience and clarity ensured both technical depth and accessibility for all participants.
Across the weekend, the programme covered fundamental and advanced patterns, sparring and step sparring, self-defence, and degree-specific technical requirements. The sessions allowed instructors to refine their understanding, exchange knowledge, and remain connected to international ITF standards, despite the physical distance.
A Powerful Message of Unity
This special IIC stands as a clear example of the ITF’s commitment to its member federations and to the continuity of Taekwon-Do education worldwide. More importantly, it highlighted the strength of the Ukrainian instructors, who continue to train, teach, and develop Taekwon-Do in the face of immense challenges.
The ITF extends its sincere thanks to the Technical and Instruction Committee, the course instructors, and all participants for their determination and professionalism. This course was not only an educational event, but also a strong symbol of solidarity, unity, and the enduring spirit of Taekwon-Do.
ITF Statement about trademark conflict
