Caylin Majiedt is an aspiring kickboxer who represented her country at the World Kickboxing Championships, she is also a full-time matric learner who has managed to juggle her responsibilities to each discipline perfectly.
At first glance, it’s hard to imagine a school student balancing the demands of academics with the intense training schedule of an international kickboxer. But for Caylin Majiedt, a rising star in the world of kickboxing, these two worlds are not only compatible – they’re the driving forces behind her remarkable achievements.
Caylin’s kickboxing journey is one that blends passion, perseverance and a little bit of serendipity. Initially, she wanted to pursue boxing, but a conversation with her father’s friend steered her towards kickboxing instead. With the full support of her father, Donovan, Caylin joined Lengau Martial Arts Academy under the guidance of Sensei Brendan Davis. What started as a new challenge quickly turned into a defining passion. “I initially wanted to do only boxing, but my dad and Uncle Pieter encouraged me to try kickboxing. My father supported me, and the rest is history.”
One of Caylin’s defining moments came when she represented the Free State at the national championships and claimed the SA under 70kg full contact title. “It was both unbelievable and unreal,” she says. “It felt like a dream, but it also made me realise that nothing is impossible if you believe in yourself and give your best.” This victory set the stage for her most significant achievement to date – the World Junior Kickboxing Championships.
Representing South Africa at the World Championships was a milestone that Caylin will never forget. “It was an honour representing my country,” she recalls. “Wearing the national colours on the international stage was an unforgettable experience. Knowing that I wasn’t just competing for myself, but for the whole nation, was humbling.”
In the end, her hard work paid off when she won a bronze medal, ranking third in the world in her weight division. It was a proud moment for Caylin, not just for the medal but for the realisation that her dedication had brought her to the pinnacle of her sport. “The most challenging part of the competition is the pressure to perform,” she admits. “There’s a high expectation from supporters, especially my local club and coach. It’s intense, but it’s also what pushes me to keep going.”
Kickboxing is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one, and Caylin understands this better than most. Training five times a week, for at least 2 hours per session, she’s constantly pushing her body to its limits while also maintaining a sharp mental focus. “Kickboxing is one of the toughest sports, both mentally and physically,” she says. “The preparation is intense, and the mental part is equally as important as the physical training. I visualise my fight, imagine my opponent, and mentally prepare for every possible scenario.”
Despite the intense physical demands, Caylin has learned to embrace the challenges. Injuries, including a broken nose and various bruises, are part of the sport, but she views them as learning experiences. “Injuries are unavoidable, but they teach you resilience,” she says. “You always learn something from them, whether it’s about technique, conditioning, or perseverance.”
Support plays a crucial role in Caylin’s success. Her father, who shares her passion for combat sports, has been her constant companion and strongest supporter. “He’s been there for every training session, every tournament, and every fight,” she says. “He’s always in my corner, literally and figuratively. I don’t think I’d be where I am without his help and encouragement.”
While Caylin’s success in the ring is remarkable, it’s her ability to balance her kickboxing career with her schoolwork that truly sets her apart. “Balancing school and kickboxing is challenging, but I’ve learned to manage my time effectively,” she says. “Kickboxing has taught me discipline, and I make sure I finish all my school assignments and study before I go to training.”
But balancing academics with training comes with its sacrifices. “I’ve had to cancel plans with friends and family countless times,” she admits. “Most weekends are spent training or doing schoolwork, but I make time for my few close friends. It’s about prioritising what’s important.”
The sacrifices extend to times when big competitions coincide with school exams. When the Junior World Championships overlapped with her Matric Prelim exams, Caylin’s school made special arrangements, allowing her to focus fully on the competition. “I’m grateful for the support from my school,” she says. “They allowed me to write the exams after I returned, which gave me the chance to perform at my best in the competition.”
Despite her success, Caylin remains focused on her education and future career. Next year, she plans to study either Occupational Therapy or Veterinary Science, fields that are both time-consuming and challenging. However, she’s not ready to leave kickboxing behind. “A professional career in kickboxing may not be possible right now due to my studies, but I’ll continue to compete at the level I am now,” she says. “I’ve learned how to balance both, and I’ll keep doing that for as long as I can.”
While Caylin is focused on her academic goals, she’s also looking to the future of her kickboxing career. “One day, I want to become a professional kickboxing champion,” she says. “I’d also like to try MMA, although my dad is not too keen on the idea. He thinks it’s too risky, especially for my face! But I’d love to give it a try,” she laughed.
Even when her competitive days come to an end, Caylin hopes to stay involved in kickboxing, whether as a coach or mentor to upcoming fighters. “Kickboxing has given me so much,” she reflects. “I want to give back to the sport, whether it’s through coaching or mentorship. I want to help the next generation achieve what I’ve been able to achieve.”
For young athletes hoping to follow in Caylin’s footsteps, she has some practical advice. “Time management is key,” she says. “You need to prioritise what’s important for your future. Find a routine that allows you to balance school and training without letting one take over the other. It’s all about creating a fixed schedule and sticking to it.”
Caylin Majiedt’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved with dedication, hard work, and a clear sense of purpose. From the intense training sessions to the pressure-filled moments on the world stage, she has proven that success isn’t just about talent – it’s about resilience, discipline, and the willingness to keep pushing forward, no matter the challenge. Whether in the classroom or the ring, Caylin is a true champion, and her story is only just beginning.
Right now, she is preparing for the African Kickboxing Championships taking place in Johannesburg from 9 to 12 December.
Text: Warren Hawkins, Photos: Gino Harmse
