Dalia Santiago Inspires Next Generation of Taekwondo Athletes in Catalonia
June 10, 2024
Paralympic taekwondo athlete Dalia Santiago, 28, shared her journey and passion for the sport with nearly 40 young athletes in Salt, Catalonia, as part of CaixaBank’s Empower Kids program. The session, held at Chun Kwon Salt gymnasium, aimed to introduce Paralympic sports to children while promoting inclusivity from an early age.
Why This Session Matters for Youth Sports in Catalonia
Dalia Santiago’s visit to Salt represents more than a taekwondo demonstration—it’s a continuation of a family legacy and a step toward normalizing disability in youth sports. Her father, Juan Antonio, a two-time European taekwondo champion and five-time world medalist, ran the Lee Young Ripoll gymnasium where Dalia began her training.
According to CaixaBank, the Empower Kids program has reached many children across Spain since its launch in 2022, with a focus on regions like Catalonia where grassroots sports infrastructure is well-developed. The initiative aligns with the International Paralympic Committee’s (IPC) goals to increase youth participation in adaptive sports.
From Student to Mentor: The Santiago Taekwondo Legacy
Dalia Santiago’s path mirrors her father’s in more ways than technique. Juan Antonio, a two-time European taekwondo champion and five-time world medalist, competed at the elite level. Dalia shared her passion for the sport with young athletes in Salt, where taekwondo clubs like Chun Kwon serve as hubs for training.
“It’s an honor to follow in his footsteps,” Santiago told reporters after the session. “Seeing my father’s dedication to the sport when I was young made me realize how powerful it can be—not just as competition, but as a tool for growth. Now, being able to share that with these kids fills me with pride.”
How Empower Kids is Changing Youth Sports in Catalonia
The Empower Kids program operates through a three-phase model:
- Awareness: Paralympic athletes demonstrate their sports and share personal stories.
- Hands-on: Children participate in adapted versions of the sports.
- Community: Local clubs receive training to incorporate adaptive programs.
In Salt, the session included:
- A 45-minute taekwondo demonstration
- Q&A where children asked about training routines and competition
- A “try it yourself” station with modified gear for younger participants
CaixaBank’s regional manager for Catalonia, Laura Martínez, emphasized the program’s local impact: “Salt has been a pioneer in adaptive sports, and we’re thrilled to build on that foundation. These sessions aren’t just about sport—they’re about creating environments where every child feels they belong.”
Catalonia’s Approach to Adaptive Youth Sports
Catalonia’s approach to adaptive sports stands out in Europe.
Key Questions About the Empower Kids Program
How can my child participate in Empower Kids?
Parents can register through local CaixaBank branches or the CaixaBank Foundation website. Sessions are free and open to children ages 6-14.
What adaptive sports are covered?
The program currently focuses on taekwondo, with plans to expand in the future.
How does this compare to similar programs in Europe?
While similar initiatives exist in the UK (Sport England’s Changing Lives) and Germany (Deutsche Behindertensportverband), Empower Kids stands out for its:
- Family involvement (parents often participate alongside children)
- Focus on rural communities
- Integration with existing sports clubs rather than standalone facilities
How You Can Get Involved
Whether you’re a parent, coach, or athlete, there are multiple ways to support adaptive sports in Catalonia:
- Volunteer at local Empower Kids sessions
- Donate adaptive equipment through Paralympic Sport Spain
- Advocate for adaptive sports in your community
Share your experiences or questions in the comments below—or tag @caixabank and @Paralympic to spread the word about adaptive sports initiatives.
