World Championships loom for young kickboxer Wade

Wade Sciberras has been ­invited to represent Aus­tralia at the World Kickboxing Championships next month.

Wade with his trainer and father Steve. (Matt Sullivan)

Emu Plains kickboxer Wade Sciberras has been ­invited to represent Aus­tralia at the WKF Amateur World Kickboxing Championships in the Czech ­Republic next month.

The 19-year-old is trained by his father Steve, a former world champion himself, and is undefeated in both kickboxing and boxing.

“The Oceania president of the world kickboxing federation has noticed Wade and said he’s an up-and-coming superstar of the sport,” Steve said.

Wade with his trainer and father Steve. (Matt Sullivan)

“I’ve been in the sport for a long time so he’s grown up with it. He was a baby sitting and watching me hold pads for people, it’s in his blood.”

Wade competes in the 56kg division in both kickboxing and boxing and said he couldn’t pick a favourite.

“It keeps your focus. It’s a way to live your life, it gives you a diet, tells you how to think, I just like the commitment and dedication to it,” Wade said.

Wade Sciberras of Emu Plains is going to the WKF Amateur World Kickboxing Championships. (Matt Sullivan)

“And it feels good to be undefeated, I’m proud of my performance but there are always things that I’m going to be able to work on.”

The father-and-son team are seeking sponsorship to help Wade get to Europe for the championships.

“It was exciting to get picked for Australia, pretty scary as well,” Wade said.

Wade needs a sponsor to help him get to Prague next month. (Matt Sullivan)

“I mean win, lose, or draw, I’m just going to enjoy the experience, and that’s what kickboxing can give you and what I’m looking forward to in the future.

“I’d like to be champion one day, and hopefully turn professional.”

SPONSOR WADE

■ Each fighter must get a sponsor for travelling and accommodation expenses

■ To help Wade get to Prague phone [phone]