Meet Eva McKechnie – a high-performing student-athlete balancing the demands of elite sport and academic excellence.

At 20 years old, Eva is currently studying Bsc Zoology full-time at the University of Sheffield, one of the UK’s leading Russell Group universities. A dedicated martial artist since the age of seven, she trains with both UOS Taekwondo (Sheffield) and Aspire Taekwondo (Barnsley), and is now preparing to take her 4th Dan Blackbelt later this year.

Eva is also a proud member of the University of Sheffield’s Elite Sports Performance Scheme (ESPS)—an achievement that places her among a select group of student athletes supported in reaching their full sporting potential. She follows in the footsteps of renowned ESPS alumni, including Olympic heptathlon gold medallist Jessica Ennis-Hill, and is carving out her own path on the international stage.

Since joining the GB Poomsae Squad in 2021, Eva has represented Great Britain at the German Open in Hamburg and secured a bronze medal in the U17 Female Team category at the British National Championships. Most recently, she qualified for the European Student Championships in Warsaw, marking another exciting chapter in her already impressive journey.

The British Taekwondo GB Poomsae Development Squad is a stepping stone for talented athletes aiming to represent their country at the highest level.

This squad brings together dedicated individuals from across the UK who show strong technical ability, performance potential, and a clear commitment to progression. Athletes train regularly with national coaches, focusing on precision, strength, and presentation—building the skills and mindset required for international competition.

Selection is based on consistent competition results, strong scoring in national ranking events, and the athlete’s attitude both on and off the mat.

Whether it’s the focus and finesse of poomsae or the intensity of full-contact sparring, our taekwondo athlete Eva is constantly pushing to be her best in every part of the sport. Here you’ll find all the key dates for upcoming competitions—both pattern and fighting—as well as monthly GB regional training camps, where she train’s alongside some of the country’s top talent.

It’s a packed schedule full of hard work, progress, and big moments. Follow along, show your support, and be part of her journey as she chases her goals one kick at a time.

2025 European Universities Combat Championships – 21st – 26th August, Warsaw, Poland:
Kukkiwon Individual Patterns Female
WTF -67kg Koryugi (Fighting) Female

2025 British National Poomsae Championships:
U30 Dan Female

2025 Croatian Open – 11th October, Zagreb, Croatia
U30 Dan Female

GB Regional Training Monthly – GB Taekwondo Centre, Manchester
More Events – TBC

More Events – TBC

Kukkiwon WTF 3 Dan

British Taekwondo GB Poomsae Squad
University of Sheffield ESPS Athlete

Qualification EUSA Student Games 2025

BUCS Taekwondo Championships 2024-25
Kukkiwon Individual Patterns Female
Bronze Medal

WTF -67kg Koryugi (Fighting) Female
Silver Medal

At CARYSIL, we recognise the immense dedication and sacrifice required to compete at an elite level—especially in sports where athletes often rely on self-funding to pursue their dreams. The financial demands of training, travel, equipment, and competition can place significant strain not only on the athlete but also on their families. That’s why our support goes beyond sponsorship—it’s about removing barriers.

By contributing to their journey, we help athletes access world-class coaching, state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge equipment, and the latest in performance technology. Our backing also enables them to travel nationally and internationally, competing against the best in their field without the added pressure of financial constraints.

At CARYSIL, we’re proud to play a part in helping extraordinary talent reach their full potential.

Stay connected with our Eva and follow her incredible journey as she trains, competes, and chases his dream of becoming the very best in her field.

Follow Eva on her social media channels, where you can keep up to date with her latest results, competition progress, behind-the-scenes moments, and milestones. Show your support, share in her success, and be part of Eva’s story by following, liking, and engaging with her online. Your encouragement means the world as she strives to perform at the very highest level.