14-07-2025
QuanWessels athletes to represent SA at IMMAF Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi
A group of rising young athletes from the QuanWessels Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Academy in Sunninghill have earned their place on the international stage, following standout performances at the MMA South African National Championships.
Several members of the team have been selected to represent South Africa at the prestigious International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) Youth World Championships, taking place in Abu Dhabi this July.
Under the banner of Mixed Martial Arts South Africa (MMASA), the national championships showcased the country's top junior talent, and QuanWessels made their mark.
'It is with great pride, watching our boys mature into quality junior athletes with 10 years of planning coming into fruition,' said coach Norman 'Chef' Wessels.
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'They are a small but quality group of youngsters, going to represent QuanWessels and our country,' added another coach Richard Quan. 'They have done the hours and continue to grow, learn, and mature in our programme. All they need to do now is get on top, stay on top, finish, and win.'
The IMMAF Youth World Championships is the premier stage for young mixed martial artists aged 8 to 17, bringing together top athletes from across the globe. For many, it represents a once-in-a-lifetime chance to compete internationally.
For Nicholas Sears (13), the road to nationals was not without obstacles. 'It was a major struggle to balance training for nationals while studying for exams at the same time. I just put my head down and dealt with it. Did what I needed to do.'
When asked what he would say to his future self before stepping into the cage in Dubai, he said: 'You are gonna 'Fight to the Death' no matter what happens.'
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Another team member, Logan Brown, spoke about the personal growth he's experienced through training at QuanWessels. 'I am a lot more confident and comfortable walking around, knowing I can defend myself. I am very excited to compete for South Africa, and to see how I compare to other athletes in other countries.'
Even athletes not on the national team, like Stefan van Rooyen, are making the journey to Abu Dhabi to support their teammates. 'Before a big fight, I stay calm by listening to music, doing some light stretching, and visualising the match in my head.' As for his inspiration in the sport, he named UFC star Paddy Pimblett. 'He's fearless, entertaining, and always brings energy to the cage.'
For Tiano Marko Massimo Frau, another standout competitor, the opportunity means everything. 'I feel really good. It is really a huge and a great opportunity for me to show the world that, as a South African, we can compete at the highest levels. Never give up, through any struggle, keep training and you will persevere.'
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While the achievement is historic, the athletes now face a new challenge: Raising funds to cover the costs of travel, accommodation, and gear. 'We're calling on businesses, sponsors, and supporters to help get our kids to the world championships,' said Wessels. 'These children are making South Africa proud. They just need a little help to get there.'
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