Rockwall Black Belt Academy Shines on the World Stage in Argentina

When eleven students from Rockwall Black Belt Academy (RBBA) boarded a plane to Buenos Aires this fall, they carried more than uniforms and gear — they carried the hopes and pride of their community. Competing for Team USA at the 2025 World Taekwon-Do Championship, the group returned home not only with medals, but with memories, friendships, and lessons that will last a lifetime.

The Rockwall team represented a wide range of ages — from 10-year-old Hayden Anderson to 41-year-old Robert Powell, the school’s owner and head instructor. Together, they joined more than 20 countries at the global competition, an experience that was as challenging as it was rewarding.

By the end of the tournament, the Rockwall athletes had earned an impressive 3 gold medals, 3 silver medals, and 3 bronze medals in individual events. Additionally, three RBBA students were selected to compete as part of the Men’s USA Team, coached by Powell himself. That team went on to secure bronze medals in sparring and patterns, adding six more to the medal count and bringing the total to a remarkable 15 medals overall.

“The amount of work, dedication, and perseverance that these students showed in preparing for competition at this level was amazing to watch,” said Robert Powell, who founded Rockwall Black Belt Academy. “We’re incredibly proud of what they achieved, and we’re just as proud of how they represented Rockwall — with respect, humility, and determination.”

For many of the young competitors, the trip marked their first time traveling internationally. Competing in Argentina introduced them to new cultures, new friends, and new perspectives on what it means to test themselves against the best in the world.

“This was such a unique experience for our kids,” said Fadelle Powell of RBBA. “They trained hard for months, balancing school, family, and practice. To see them walk into the arena wearing ‘USA’ on their uniforms was an incredible moment — one we’ll never forget.”

The experience was equally meaningful for Robert Powell, a veteran competitor who has represented Team USA multiple times throughout his martial arts career. In Buenos Aires, he capped off his competitive journey with a gold medal in sparring, a fitting finale to decades of dedication and excellence.

This tournament also marked a personal milestone: it was the first time Powell competed on the world stage with his students, wife, and daughter watching from the stands. “To share that moment with my family and my students was something truly special,” Powell said. “It reminded me why I started teaching in the first place.”

Following the competition, Powell announced his retirement from international competition to focus fully on coaching. His mission now is to prepare the next generation of martial artists to excel — not just in tournaments, but in life.

The academy’s competitors — Hayden Anderson (10), Victor Summers (12) Michael Martin (15), Parker Watson (15), David Vega (16), Ella Gardner (13), Alex Taylor (20), Brandon Shook (29), Tyler Roybal (15), Ethan Dingman (21), and Robert Powell (41) — each played a part in the team’s success. Behind them stood an equally dedicated group of parents and supporters, whose encouragement, time, and commitment helped make the journey possible.

Looking ahead, RBBA already has its sights set on new challenges. The team is preparing for international tournaments in Italy (2026) and Spain (2027), continuing the legacy of excellence that has defined the academy for years.

“We tell our students that martial arts is about more than just winning medals,” Powell said. “It’s about character, perseverance, and the belief that through discipline and respect, you can accomplish anything.”

Rockwall Black Belt Academy’s achievements in Buenos Aires are a reflection not only of athletic skill but of the values the academy instills — hard work, community, and integrity. Their success reminds us all that even in a small Texas town, big dreams can take you around the world.