Maka’s Taekwondo makes history at SD State Championships

Maka’s Taekwondo made history last Saturday, March 29, as it hosted its 34th annual South Dakota State Taekwondo Championships. The event, held in Tea, saw an unprecedented 40 students from Maka’s Taekwondo competing, while more than 50 students and family members volunteered to help make the day a success.

The competition proved to be a standout moment for the school, with many students securing top placements. In total, competitors participated in 72 events, earned 23 first-place medals, 24 second-place finishes, and 15 third-place wins. 

A highlight of the tournament was Elizabeth Stange’s victory in the colored belt Grand Champion Poomsae event. This prestigious event, which showcases a competitor’s mastery of strikes, blocks, and technical precision, saw all first-place winners from the colored belt division compete for the title of “best of the best.” Stange outperformed 19 other competitors to claim the championship.

Founded in 1978 in a Sioux Falls garage, Maka’s Taekwondo has been a staple in the Tea community for nearly 20 years. The school has proudly hosted the South Dakota State Taekwondo Tournament since 1987, continuing a tradition of excellence in martial arts training and competition.

Looking ahead, Maka’s Taekwondo is gearing up for the Midwest Taekwondo Championships on November 15. This open tournament, which will feature Olympic-style sparring, individual Poomsae, and Team Poomsae events, will take place at Tea Area High School and is open to the public.

Maka’s Taekwondo Competitors at SD State Championships include Abby Stange, Alena Fouche, Alma Alidon, Asher Gellert, Bobby Kooiman, Braxton Kelley, Dan Kelley, Daxton Miller, Dustin Ballman, Elizabeth Stange, Ezra Duarte, Faith Otis, Gabe Otis, Gage Bickett, James Mogle, Jax Borchard, Jesse Godber, Jodi Kelley, Josie Stange, Josieann Schaeffer, Junah Parsons, Kylie Wennblom, Leo Watson, Lily Kuiken, Lincoln Gellert, Lumen Johnson, MeiElla Rieland, Micah Schunke, Nash Marczak, Oliver Nettleton, Paige Arp, Priya Duarte, Simon Watson, Skye Otis, Steve Mogle, Thomas Mogle, Trinley Urban, Valter Lafasni, William Rieland, and Zo Zebroski.

Pictured at right: Elizabeth Stange — colored belt Grand Champion Poomsae