Hearing the announcer call his name, CVHS SophomoreApollo Tan steps onto the mat. He masks his nerves with his focused expression. “Si-jak!” the referee yells, signaling that the match has begun.

Tan isn’t new to this, for this is neither his first nor his last competition. However, every time he competes, he is sure to apply his years of training, discipline, and determination into to every second of the match.

A fierce competitor in Taekwondo, Tan represents the United States at international tournaments. His path to success, though, has not been without challenges. He has faced tough losses and worked hard to find the balance between his intense training and the academic rigor. His progression through the ranks of Taekwondo is one that includes unwavering commitment, resilience, and passion for growth and self-betterment.

Tan’s journey in Taekwondo initially began when his friend invited him to a class. “I remember being nine and thinking it looked cool. I joined, not knowing it would become so serious,” Tan recalls. Little did he know that he would soon participate in his first competition – and lose. However, the loss did not deter him from the sport but rather fueled his competitive spirit to becoming the best he could be in the sport. “It was a wake-up call,” Tan said, “I realized I had a lot to learn if I wanted to be any good.”

This realization was the beginning of Tan’s dedication and commitment to Taekwondo. From then on, it became a part of his life, with all the sacrifices and long hours that came with it. Tan gained the  focus, discipline, and strength that have become defining factors in his life and his competitions.

No stranger to the podium, Tan recently won first place at the under-22 Pan American Championships, adding to his ever-growing list of achievements. Tan admits that “winning that competition was amazing, but also a relief.” Tan delves into how this victory coexisted with a period of self-doubt and setbacks in his life that many don’t know he faced. “I had been in a slump, and getting first place felt like I had finally regained my rhythm,” Tan states.

Tan credits his success to his disciplined training. He is a member of the Dongle USA, a national Taekwondo team. Using online platforms, Tan is able to train online with coaches and teammates across the country. His clear commitment to Taekwondo is especially evident through his balance of his rigorous training program with his responsibilities as a high school student at a school as rigorous as CVHS.

Throughout his journey, Apollo has learned to balance the pressure of Taekwondo with academics. “Carnegie is a rigorous school but they’ve supported me by giving me flexibility, like allowing me an off period,” Tan shares. This extra time is very beneficial to Tan as he is able to use it to manage his training schedule more effectively. In addition, Tan prioritizes being active in other school activities and maintaining a social life. He holds a membership in CVHS’ South-East East Asian Alliance Club, where he volunteers frequently at cultural events. In addition, he is in the CVHS robotics club and CVHS home run hitters club, all fueling his passions external to Taekwondo. During his social life, he frequently hangs out with his friends at the park where they play basketball together.

Tan’s discipline in Taekwondo also influences his character in other areas of life. Through Taekwondo, he learned discipline and accountability.. He states, ‘I’ve competed against people who may be physically stronger, but it’s the effort and mindset that make the difference.” Tan also works to share this knowledge with other people, particular younger students, sharing his strategies. He says that “it’s rewarding to help them. I remember being that kid, and it’s nice to be on the other side now.”

This November, Tan went to to Hong Kong for the World Championships with the goal of bringing home the medal. He won the silver medal alongside his Junior Male Team, a major accomplishment in his Taekwondo career. His ultimate goal in the sport is representing the USA in the senior division. He shares that he’s nervous, but ultimately feels ready. 

Ultimately, Tan’s journey in Taekwondo includes more than just physical medals and victories. He gained self-discovery and growth through his experience, something that he will carry with him throughout the rest of his life; both on and off the mat. 

“I am very proud of my accomplishments thus far in my career. A couple of years ago, I couldn’t even have dreamed for the chance to represent my country in the World Championships. I will always be grateful for the opportunities and support I have been given throughout my career,” Tan reflects.