OYDC Zambia - Sports Development Centre

OYDC ZAMBIA CELEBRATES MMA ZAMBIA'S INTERNATIONAL SUCCESS AS OYDC ATHLETES LEAD MEDAL HAUL

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Zambia has continued its impressive rise on the international stage after the national team returned home with an outstanding 16 medals from a team of 20 athletes, highlighting the growing strength of the sport in the country.

The achievements were celebrated during a special medal presentation ceremony held at OYDC Zambia, where athletes, coaches, officials, and stakeholders gathered to recognize the team's success.

Three OYDC-based athletes were among the standout performers, with Alex Bwalya winning a gold medal, Justine Mwene securing silver, and Zinaida Nanyinza claiming bronze. Their achievements further demonstrated the impact of OYDC Zambia's investment in providing quality training facilities and opportunities for young athletes.

Representing OYDC Zambia Acting Chief Executive Officer Benjamin Tembo, Richard Mulenga delivered remarks on behalf of the institution, congratulating the athletes and the MMA Federation for the historic achievement.

In the speech, OYDC Zambia expressed pride in the remarkable growth of Mixed Martial Arts and commended the federation for setting an example of successful sports development through dedication, planning, and hard work.

The institution reaffirmed its commitment to supporting MMA and other sports, emphasizing the transformative role sport plays in creating opportunities for young people and inspiring excellence.

Speaking during the ceremony, MMA Zambia President Henly Shoko expressed gratitude to OYDC Zambia for its continued support of the sport.

Shoko thanked OYDC Zambia for providing athletes with access to training facilities that have contributed significantly to their development. He also acknowledged OYDC's role in hosting previous MMA competitions, creating a platform for athletes to gain valuable experience and exposure.

"The support from OYDC Zambia has been instrumental in the growth of Mixed Martial Arts. The facilities and opportunities provided have helped our athletes prepare and compete at the highest level," said Shoko.

The MMA Zambia President also used the occasion to call on the private sector to partner with the federation and contribute to the continued growth of the sport.

He noted that companies can support MMA through club sponsorships, national team sponsorships, athlete development programs, and other initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for young people.

"We are seeing the influence and impact that MMA is making. This is the right time for the private sector to come on board and invest in the sport. Their support can help clubs, national teams, and athletes reach even greater heights while contributing to youth development and national pride," he said.

Meanwhile, MMA Zambia Head Coach Benjamin Bush expressed immense satisfaction with the progress shown by the athletes and the overall performance of the team.

Bush praised the dedication and commitment displayed throughout the competition, describing the medal haul as a reflection of the hard work being put in by athletes and coaches across the country.

"Winning 16 medals from a team of 20 athletes is a remarkable achievement. It shows that our athletes are developing well and are capable of competing successfully on the international stage. We are proud of what they have accomplished and excited about the future of the sport," said Bush.

Gold medalist Alex Bwalya also shared his excitement following his success, describing the achievement as one of the proudest moments of his sporting journey.

"It means a lot to me. This was only my second competition and to win a gold medal makes me very happy," said Bwalya.

The young athlete revealed that his sporting journey began in taekwondo before he later played football. However, he eventually found his passion in Mixed Martial Arts, a decision that has already begun yielding impressive results.

As MMA Zambia continues to grow in popularity and competitiveness, the latest international success serves as a testament to the dedication of athletes, coaches, federations, and partners such as OYDC Zambia, whose support continues to shape the future of the sport.

With 16 medals won and growing interest from athletes and supporters alike, Mixed Martial Arts is steadily establishing itself as one of Zambia's fastest-rising sports.

MMA Zambia

Future Stars in Action!

The OYDC Football Academy was in action over the weekend as our young players took part in an exciting practice match, showcasing their talent, teamwork, and growing confidence on the field.

At OYDC Football Academy, we are committed to developing young footballers by providing quality training, discipline, and opportunities to grow both on and off the pitch.

Bring your child to OYDC Football Academy and give them the chance to develop their skills, build friendships, and pursue their football dreams. Today's learner could be tomorrow's star!

📍 Join us today and be part of the journey to greatness.

Lusaka Youth Netball League in action at OYDC Zambia!

Young athletes continue to showcase their talent, teamwork, and passion for the game as the league progresses. The future of netball is bright!

Teulings Youth Sports Challenge Delivers Exciting Week 5 Action.

The Teulings Youth Sports Challenge League continued with thrilling encounters during Week 5, as young athletes competed in Handball, Taekwando, Beach Volleyball and Hockey.

The weekend's action produced several exciting results, with teams battling hard for valuable points in Handball’s Group A fixtures played on 30 May 2025.

OYDC HC opened the round with a narrow 12-11 victory over Lycee Francaise HC in one of the most entertaining matches of the day. Olympafrica HC followed with a convincing 7-2 win over Ridgeway HC, while OYDC A HC continued their impressive form with a 10-0 triumph over Mt Zion HC.

Mt Eugen HC and CTR HC shared the spoils in a closely contested 10-10 draw. OYDC A HC then secured another victory, edging Olympafrica HC 7-4 in a highly competitive encounter.

Kasisi Dynamite HC recorded a dominant 10-0 win over Kali Legacy, while Lycee Francaise HC also claimed a comfortable 10-0 victory against Kali Legacy. Ridgeway HC continued the trend of commanding performances with a 10-0 win over Mt Zion HC.

Triple B HC suffered a 10-0 defeat to Kasisi Dynamite HC before bouncing back to earn a hard-fought 10-10 draw against Mt Eugen HC. OYDC A HC rounded off another successful outing with a 10-0 win over CTR HC.

In the remaining fixtures, Ridgeway HC defeated Kali Legacy 10-0, while Olympafrica HC concluded the weekend with a 10-0 victory over Mt Zion HC.

The league continues to provide a valuable platform for youth development.

📸 Swipe through for some of the best moments from Week 5 of the Teulings Youth Sports Challenge.

Congratulations

Message to the athlete community from IOC President, Kirsty Coventry

JOIN THE OYDC FOOTBALL ACADEMY

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OYDC Football Academy is now enrolling young players eager to develop their skills, discipline, teamwork, and confidence both on and off the pitch.

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