The American Taekwondo Association in South Africa (ATA SA) is facing a knock-out punch from Martial Arts South Africa (Masa) following “multiple” allegations that “children were physically reprimanded, grabbed by their uniforms, and forced to continue training despite injuries”.
Masa has advised schools and parents to cut ties with the organisation also known as Vanguard Martial Arts, led by Rohan Verwey.
ATA SA may now be operating illegally in the country after Verwey resigned from the sport’s governing body amid an investigation into non-compliance with safeguarding regulations and threats of bullying and harassment.
“This means Mr Verwey and any instructors affiliated with ATA SA and Vanguard Martial Arts may not conduct martial arts classes, workshops, or events under Masa’s jurisdiction. All schools, teachers, and parents are strongly advised not to permit Mr Verwey or any Vanguard Martial Arts instructors to work with children until this matter is fully resolved,” the Masa executive team said.
“ATA SA and Vanguard Martial Arts remain ineligible to participate in any Masa-sanctioned provincial, national, or international martial arts events.”
There are 14 ATA clubs in the country, with two in Free State, three in Johannesburg, three in Tshwane, two in Ekurhuleni, one in Limpopo and three in Mpumalanga.
The first complaint was lodged in October, Masa told the Sunday Times. “The allegations are that Mr Verwey aggressively shouted at students, causing emotional distress. Children were physically reprimanded, grabbed by their uniforms, and forced to continue training despite injuries. Students were warned they would never be allowed to train again if they left ATA SA.
“Another former female student had Mr Verwey arrive at her place of residence to intimidate her after she inquired about opening her own studio. Parents were threatened with legal action if they questioned ATA SA’s conduct.
“Teenage assistants were left in charge of training without qualified instructors. Young students were abandoned at tournaments without adult supervision. Parents were forced to buy overpriced gear exclusively from ATA SA with no alternatives. Only financially privileged students who could afford international tournaments were awarded South African colours, sidelining talented but less affluent athletes,” Masa said.
On February 11, Masa announced ATA SA’s suspension and warned schools and other organisations.
Three days later ATA SA attempted to resign from Masa.
“Masa rejects ATA SA’s resignation attempt, reaffirming that the safeguarding investigation will continue despite their withdrawal. The investigation is still open. The matter has been escalated to Sascoc (South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee) for further review and enforcement.
“While isolated safeguarding issues have occurred before, ATA SA’s case is one of the most serious safeguarding investigations in Masa’s history. This case underscores the need for stronger safeguarding awareness and enforcement across all sports,” Masa said.
Verwey, who became the youngest 4th degree black belt in South Africa at the age of 16, and earned his 6th degree black belt in 2021, declined to comment. “We have been advised not to comment until Sascoc has completed its investigation,” he said.
On February 13, ATA SA issued a statement informing the public of its resignation from Masa. “Effective immediately, Masa holds no authority over ATA SA,” it said.
“ATA SA will continue operating independently to serve our members without Masa’s involvement. ATA SA remains committed to the highest standards of martial arts development in South Africa and will continue to grow, promote, and support our instructors, students, and athletes.”
A parent told Sunday Times: “Most of the parents are afraid that if they talk openly, their kids will suffer the brunt of his anger.”
Sascoc spokesperson Jessica Choga said: “We confirm that Masa is a recognised member of Sascoc. However, we would urge you that on any matters related to ATA, it should be directed to Masa, as they would be best positioned to respond about their member.”
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