Strive Taekwondo Athletes take on Zagreb: A bold step forward
From Bucharest to Zagreb: Building momentum
Fresh off tactical showcase and lessons at the Dracula Open in Bucharest, Strive Taekwondo’s juniors and a cadet were back on the road — this time heading west to Croatia for the 29th Zagreb Croatia Open on 15 November 2025. The WT G1 tournament drew hundreds of cadets and juniors from across Europe, offering a true test at elite level. For Strive, it was another chance to challenge ourselves and to deepen the bonds forged through travel, competition, and shared ambition. This time, we proudly joined forces with Iron Taekwondo League, a great Maltese club, strengthening our national presence on the international stage.
Representing Strive in Zagreb
Nathan Degiorgio (-59, Juniors): Nathan tested the waters in his new weight category — and it paid off. He won his first fight against Poland 2-1, then barely lost his second against Croatia 2-0, showing that his perseverance and fighting style are evolving into something special. He displayed smart assertive strategy, better timing and distance control, as well as the confident drive to find his own style under pressure.
Luke Chircop (-63, Juniors): Luke carried momentum from Bucharest with a composed, mature approach. He won his opening fight against Great Britain 2-1 and narrowly dropped the second against Croatia 2-0, all while keeping a calm, focused attitude that speaks to his consistency and growth — a testament to his adaptability and thirst for victory carried from the Dracula Open.
Kendra Magro (-51, Cadets): Competing at G1 level for the very first time, Kendra faced understandable anxiety and fear — and met them with intrepid courage. She stepped onto the mat and faced her German opponent head-on. It was a proud moment for the club, showing her willingness to learn and the potential she has to develop.
A tournament of scale
Hosted at the “Sutinska vrela” Sports Hall in Zagreb, the event ran across eight courts with up to 400 cadets and juniors competing. The best-of-three rounds format demanded both endurance and adaptability, and video replay should have ensured a fair, high-standard field of play. Side note: the event used KPNP Gen 2; scoring proved inconsistent and unpredictable especially at this level, so our athletes had to adapt quickly and exhibit patience to register points.
Strive’s highlights in Zagreb
Evolving styles: Nathan’s first win and narrow second bout showed his strategy and identity are coming together in -59kg.
Composure under pressure: Luke’s calm, consistent performance in -63kg reflected the momentum and perseverance he’s carried from Bucharest.
Courage at debut: Kendra’s fearless step into G1 competition marked an important milestone and a foundation to build on.
Partnership power: Joining Iron Taekwondo League amplified support, shared insights, and unified Maltese voices in the stands.
Community spirit: From early weigh-ins to late-night cheering and social outings, Strive together with Iron Taekwondo League embodied unity, camaraderie and fun.
Contenders, not just participants: We are no longer simply showing up — we are winning, moving ahead in rounds, and challenging for medals.
Looking ahead
With Bucharest and Zagreb behind us, Strive Taekwondo is already focused on the next challenge. These back-to-back outings proved our juniors and cadets can rise to high-pressure moments and learn fast. The experience — from dawn random weigh-ins to navigating the intensity of eight simultaneous courts — will power our preparations for 2026.
In Zagreb, Nathan, Luke, and Kendra didn’t just compete — they grew. As the memories and milestones come home, one thing is clear: Strive’s journey abroad is only just beginning.
