Development for Wushu in Papua New Guinea has received a significant boost following an international training course for Wushu coaches in Jiangyin City, China. Hosted by the Chinese Wushu Association and sanctioned by the International Wushu Federation (IWUF), the course ran from 27th June to 3rd July 2024 and covered training in both Sanda (combat sparring) and Taolu (forms/patterns). Coaches from various countries, including China, attended the seminar, where former and current Sanda World Champions shared their expertise. Andrew Molen, Development Officer for the Kung Fu Wushu Association of Papua New Guinea (KFWA PNG), represented PNG at the course. “It was a great experience. I learned a lot, especially about throwing and wrestling techniques, which are key components in Sanda” “This adds to our knowledge and skills base to train our athletes,” Molen said. The course covered topics such as strength and conditioning, anti-doping, athlete mindset management, sports science, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TMA). Practical sessions included light sparring, shadow boxing, strikes, throws, and wrestling. Participants also underwent written and practical exams. Meanwhile, Geoff Hui, President of KFWA PNG, emphasized the importance of the course for the sport's continuous development. He thanked IWUF, the Oceania Kung Fu Wushu Federation, and the Chinese Wushu Association for the invitation and for ensuring PNG's participation. “Our main focus now is on Sanda, and this course will greatly boost our current programme in PNG,” said Hui. KFWA PNG is currently running a Development Squad program in Port Moresby, which began in April. Despite a late start due to a lack of support from the country's sporting authorities, the program is progressing well with 12 athletes. The program is led by Molen in preparation for future international events. “It takes time to instil proper techniques, fitness, and technical knowledge in an athlete. That’s why we have this development program,” Molen said. Hui stated that KFWA PNG will continue participating in international training programs to build the capacity of its athletes and officials. He also appealed to corporate organizations and the government to partner with KFWA PNG to develop Wushu as both a sport and a way of life. “Wushu promotes peace, discipline, good health, and well-being for all ages. For those who wish to compete, there are opportunities to travel nationally and internationally to represent their province or country,” Hui said. He noted that Sanda athletes can transition to other professional combat sports such as MMA, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, or Boxing and that Sanda has its own professional circuit. Hui emphasized that Wushu, especially Sanda, is open to athletes from other combat styles who wish to have another opportunity to compete.