Kick-boxing champion on coaching

Namibian kick-boxing champion Delano Muller (19), who has won numerous awards in the country, as well as abroad, says coaching allows him to leverage his skills, experience and passion.

Muller, who started coaching last year, says coaching allows him to make a positive impact on the lives of others. “It is a responsibility that I value immensely,” says Muller.

He says his dedication to coaching reflects his belief in the power of mentorship, guidance and support in fostering personal growth and achievement.

Muller, who started kick-boxing when he was seven, is a coach at the Namibia Martial Arts Academy based at Walvis Bay. He holds the title of Namibian Junior Sportsman of the year for 2016, 2017 and 2019.

Muller was also shortlisted in the top three for the Regional Annual Sports Awards for Southern Africa, held in Johannesburg, South Africa in 2016. He is the sub-Saharan title belt holder for three consecutive Desert Storm Championships, in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

The kick-boxing champion was the featherweight division title belt holder at the Battle of Atlanta World Championships in 2019, and the first Namibian to achieve this.

He was also the winner of the Namibia Community Inspiration Awards in 2021 and 2023, and was shortlisted for this award in 2022.

He says the main aim of Namibia Martial Arts Academy, which opened in 2015, is to foster a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals can develop their physical skills, mental discipline and personal character through the practice of martial arts.

“The academy is dedicated to promoting physical fitness, self-defence, confidence and a sense of community among its members, while instilling values such as respect, perseverance and self-improvement,” he says.

The duration of training at a martial arts academy can vary widely, depending on the individual’s goals, the specific martial art being studied and the academy’s curriculum, says Muller. says to Muller the primary difference between being a kick-boxer and training fighters lies in the roles and responsibilities associated with each position.

Ultimately, Muller’s aim as a sensei is to inspire and guide individuals, both on and off the mat, and to positively impact the lives of those who entrust him with their martial arts journey.