Selected to compete against athletes from more than 60 countries, the Naudé twins are preparing for the biggest challenge of their young sporting careers.
Cape Town, South Africa (08 June 2026) – For as long as they can remember, Andrew and Matthew Naudé have done everything together.
The twin brothers, who are learners at Sunningdale Primary School, have trained side by side, competed side by side, and now they are preparing for the biggest challenge of their young sporting careers together.
The pair have been selected for the South African National Kickboxing Squad and will represent the country at the 2026 WAKO World Youth Kickboxing Championships in Jesolo, Italy, this September.
It is a remarkable achievement for two young athletes who have spent years balancing school, training and competition, steadily working their way through the ranks of the sport.
Now they have the chance to test themselves against some of the world’s best young kickboxers, with athletes from more than 60 countries expected to compete at the championships. While earning national selection is a dream come true, getting to Italy comes with a significant challenge.
Like many young athletes competing in amateur sports, Andrew and Matthew’s journey is entirely self-funded. The family is working to raise R87 500 per athlete, or R175 000 in total, to cover flights, accommodation, visas, transfers, competition fees, official South African kit and the equipment required for the event.
The first payments to the South African Kickboxing Association are due in June and July, making the fundraising effort particularly urgent.
Their story has already resonated with many people, not only because of their sporting achievements, but because of the determination and family support behind them.
As they continue preparing for September, the twins are hoping the wider community will join them on the journey and help turn a dream years in the making into reality.
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