Sunday, 1st of March

The Union's Central Olympic Club run by Dafydd Sanders hosted the first
development day for the Northern Region in 2009. Over 40 players and
officials from the Welcome Bay, Auckland, Onehunga, and the Central
Olympic clubs participated in the big day. Union President Master Matt
Ransom and Treasurer Michelle Maurice were also on hand to help out with
the running of the event and to met and greet members and parents.
Oceania Taekwondo referee Mike Burk looked after the court and gave
plenty of advice and support to the aspiring young judges and referees
who were encouraged to officiate.

The first matches began at 10.30am, with the last match taking place at
2.30pm, so it was an easy day for most allowing for travel time home.
The competition was focused on technique and having a go, rather than
the points scored or the wins. A set of electronic scoring pads (Adidas)
was used for 6 matches. These were kindly brought up for the day by
Garry Carpenter. The use of the electronic pads highlighted the need for
a change of technique when kicking the chest-protector. This certainly
gave coaches and athletes a heads-up advantage in their preparation for
the upcoming New Zealand Open.

There are 3 more development day events being planned to be held
throughout the year. The events will try to map according to the school
term year (one each school term).

It was a great day, with 3 more to come this year. Our thanks to the
Central Olympic Club for organising the event,to the Welcome Bay club
for bring the mats and electronic body protectors, and also a big thanks
to the volunteers from the Auckland and Onehunga clubs in helping with
the running of this successful day.