Manipur Taekwondo Team Gears Up for 38th National Games in Uttarakhand  

The Manipur Taekwondo team, which previously won three medals, including a gold, at the National Games in Goa, has commenced preparations for the 38th National Games scheduled in Uttarakhand from January 28 to February 14, 2025.

State Taekwondo (Poomsae) Coach Rajkumari Haripyari Devi confirmed that intensive practice sessions began on January 2 at the National Sports Academy indoor hall in Khuman Lampak, aiming for a stronger medal tally this time. The team comprises nine players—six women and three men—who have qualified for the event, raising high expectations for success.

Supporting the team are Salam Johny Singh as the manager-cum-coach for Kyorugi and Soraisam Anita Devi as the women’s team coach for Poomsae.

The players will compete in Poomsae and Kyorugi categories, showcasing punching and kicking techniques in this Korean martial art. The men’s team includes Soraisam Lanjing Meitei, Soyam Achouba Singh, and Ningthoujam Redash Singh. The women’s team features Priyadarshini Mayengbam, Hafija Khatun, Laishram Priya Devi, Umelly Mangsatabam, Irom Bijaya Devi, and Soraisam Lamnganbi Chanu.

Soraisam Lanjing Meitei and Soraisam Lamnganbi Chanu will participate in the mixed pair event, while the men’s group event includes Lanjing, Achouba, and Redash. The women’s group category features Lamnganbi, Umelly, and Bijaya. Additionally, Umelly will compete in an individual event. Priyadarshini, Umelly, and Priya will participate in the Under 46 kg, Under 57 kg, and Under 73 kg weight categories, respectively.

The All Manipur Taekwondo Association, under the guidance of General Secretary Th. Jasobanta Singh, has expressed confidence in the team’s prospects for the upcoming competition.