Taekwon-Do International Taekwon-Do Federation www.tkd-itf.org
generation ISSUE 01 / OCTOBER 2013
H T 4 7 IIC
N E G R A A TIN
irEland International Umpires Course
central america Grand Master Javier Dack’s visit to Panama
africa Africa Development
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2 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
World and European Champion
INDEX*
7 18 13
Editor In Chief Master Clint Norman
Editor at Large
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David Karharais, dk@mag.com
Associate Editor Paco Ferrano Stephen Ryan Fabian Izquierdo
Contributing Writer Mr. Park Sung Hwa Javier Dacak Mr. Carl Smullen Grandmaster Pablo Trajtenberg Master Paul Weiler Ms. Joliette Tran Mr. Fabian Izquierdo Ms. Maja Kralovkova Master Pierre Laquerre Mr. Stephen Ryan
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38 International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 3
4 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
PRESIDENT*
Dear Taekwon-Do community: It is my pleasure to introduce this new digital version of the ITF magazine “Taekwon-Do Generation”. I want to thank Master Clint Norman for his contribution to this project as well as the communications committee composed of Stephen Ryan, Paco Ferrando and Fabian Izquierdo, in which the ITF has high expectations. I hope that you enjoy this edition and feel that it is a showcase for all of us. We need the support and contribution of all of you to make every issue a success. May you enjoy this new achievement of this wonderful team. My most sincere congratulations! Pablo Trajtenberg, President
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 5
With this dedication to our beloved Founder of Taekwon-Do, Gen. Choi Hong Hi, the members of the Board of the International Taekwon-Do Federation request that you consider the induction of Gen. Choi Hong Hi into the ITF Hall of Fame. We consider that the following tribute by Mr.Park Sung Hwa is excellent and details what we wish to convey about the life of a great man” 6 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
hall of fame g. choi*
A
s one of the closest associates of Gen. Choi Hong Hi and having learned this art from him during our imprisonment under the Japanese occupation, I might be deserving to write about his life. First of all, it must be said about the author, that he has given so much devotion to this art, that the man, his life and work are one. He has developed and brought the little known ancient genre up to date through the long years of assiduous , zealous application and firm resolution. If Taekwon-Do today has gained international status, it is because of the tireless efforts of one man - the father of modern Taekwon-Do. General Choi Hong Hi was born in the rugged and harsh area of Hwa dae, Myong Chun District in what is now North Korea. In his youth he was frail and quite sickly, a constant source of worry for his parents. Even at an early age, however, the future general showed a strong and independent spirit. At the age of twelve he was expelled from school for agitating against the Japanese authorities who were in control of Korea. This was the beginning of what would be a long association with the Kwang Ju Students’ Independence Movement. After his expulsion, young Choi’s father sent him to study calligraphy under one of the most famous teachers in Korea, Mr. Han Il Dong. Han, in addition to his skils as a calligrapher, was also a master of Taek Kyon , the ancient Korean art of foot fighting. The teacher, concerned over the frail condition of his new student, began
teaching him the rigorous exercises of Taek Kyon to help build up his body. In 1937, Choi was sent to Japan to further his education. Shortly before leaving, however, the youth had the misfortune to engage in a rather heated argument with a massive professional wrestler who promised to literally tear the youth limb from limb at their next encounter. This threat seemed to give a new impetus to young Choi’s training in the martial arts.” In Kyoto , Choi met a fellow Korean, Mr Kim, who was engaged in teaching the Japanese martial art, Karate. With two years of concentrated training, Choi attained the rank of first degree black belt. These techniques, together with Taek Kyon (foot techniques ) , were the forerunners of modern Taekwon-Do. There followed a period of both mental and physical training, preparatory school, high school, and finally the University in Tokyo. During this time, training and experimentation in his new fighting techniques were intensified until, with attainment of his second degree black belt, he began teaching at a YMCA in Tokyo , Japan.
Choi recounts a particular experience from this period of time: There was no lampost in the city that he didn’t strike or kick to see the copper wires ahead were vibrating in protest. I would imagine that these were the techniques I would use to defend myself against the wrestler, Mr. Hu , if he did attempt to carry out his promise to tear me limb from limb when I eventually returned to Korea. With the outbreak of World War 11, the author was forced to enlist in the Japanese army through no volition of
his own. While at his post at Pyongyang, North Korea , Choi was implicated as the planner of the Korean Independence Movement, known as the Pyongyang Student Soldiers’ Movement and interned at a Japanese prison during his eight month pre- trial examination. “While in prison, to alleviate the boredom and keep physically fit, Choi began practising this art in the solitude of his cell. In a short time, his cellmate and jailer became students of his. Eventually, the whole prison courtyard became one gigantic gymnasium. The liberation in August 1945 spared Choi from an imposed seven year prison sentence. Following his release, the exprisoner journeyed to Seoul where he organised a student soldiers’ party. In January of the following year, Choi was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the new Korean army, the “launching pad” for putting Taekwon-do into a new orbit.Soon after, he made commander in Kwang-Ju, where the young second lieutenant lit the torch of this art by teaching his entire company and was then promoted to first lieutenant and transferred to Tae Jon in charge of the Second Infantry Regiment. while at his at his new post, Choi began spreading the art not only to Korean soldiers but also to the Americans stationed there. This was the first introduction to Americans of what would eventually become known as Taekwon-Do. 1947 was a year of fast promotion. Choi was promoted to captain and then major. In 1948 he was posted to Seoul as the head of logistics and became Taekwon-Do instructor for the American Military Police School there. In late 1948, Choi became a lieutenant colonel.
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In 1949 Choi was promoted to full colonel and visited the United States for the first time, attending the Fort Riley Ground General School. While there, this art was introduced to the American public. In 1951, brigadier general. During this time he organised the Ground General School in Pusan as Assistant Commandant and Chief of the Academic Department. Choi was appointed as Chief of Staff of the First Corps in 1952 and was responsible for briefing General MacArthur during the latter’s visits to Kang Nung. At the time of the armistice, Choi was in command of the 5th. Infantry Division. “The year 1953 was an eventful one for the general in both his military career and in the progress of the new military art. he became the author of the first authoritative book on military intelligence in Korea. He organised and activated the crack 29th. Infantry Division at Cheju Island, which eventually became the spearhead of Taekwon-Do in the military, and established the Oh Do Kwan (Gym of My Way) where he succeeded not only in training the cadre instructors for the entire military but also developing the Taek Kyon and Karate techniques into a modern system of Taekwon-Do, with the help of Mr Nam Tae Hi, his righthand man in 1954. In the latter part of that year he commanded Chong Do Kwan (Gym of the Blue Wave), the largest civilian gym in Korea; Choi was also promoted to major general. Technically, 1955 signalled the beginning of Taekwon-Do as a formally recognised art in Korea. During that year, a special board was formed which included leading master instructors, historians and prominent leaders of society. A number of names for the new martial art were submitted. On the 11th of April the board , summoned by Gen. Choi, decided on the name of Taekwon-Do which had been submitted by him. This single unified name of Taekwon-Do replaced the different and confusing terms; Dang Soo , Gong soo , Taek Kyon, Kwon Bup , etc. “The members of the Naming Board were Mr. Yoo hwa Chung; Son Duk Sung, Director of Chong Do Gym; Maj. Gen. Choi Hong Hi, Commander of the 3rd. Military District; Gen. Le Hyung Kun, the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Mr. Cho Kyung Kyu, the Vice Speaker; Mr. Chung Dae Chun, senator; Mr. Han Chang won, President of Political Newspaper; Mr. Chang Kyung Rok; Mr. Hong Soon Ho; Mr. Ko Kwang Rae and Mr. Hyun Jong Myung. April 11th., 1955.” “CONTENTS of the session:” “Gen. Choi explains the meaning of “”Taekwon”” both literally and technically. Mr. Yoo says, “”I completely agree with the name of Taekwon submitted by Maj. Gen. Choi Hong Hi. I think, however, it would be utterly significent that we have the approval from the president, since giving a name to a martial art is so important. “All members unanimously agreed.” “During that year, the energetic general spread Taekwon-Do to universities and military posts throughout Korea. The third Military District Command in Tae Jon became one of the main centres for this new art.” “In 1959 Taekwon-Do spread beyond its national bound-
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aries. The father of Taekwon-Do and nineteen of his top black belt holders toured the Far East. The tour was a major success, astounding all spectators with the excellence of the Taekwon-Do techniques. Many of these black belt holders such as Nam Tae Hi, President of the Asia Taekwon-Do federation; Colonel Ko Jae Chun, the 5th. Chief of Taekwon-Do instructors in Vietnam; Brigadier Gen. Woo Jong Lim; Mr. Han Cha Kyo, the Head Instructor in Singapore and Mr. Cha Soo Young, presently an international instructor in Washington D.C., eventually went on to spread the art around the world. In this year Choi was elevated to two illustrious posts; President of his newly formed Korea Taekwon-Do Association and deputy commander of the 2nd. Army in Tae Gu. As announced in Dong-A Newspaper ; President, Gen. Choi Hong Hi; Vice Presidents, Mr. No Byung Jik, Mr. Yun Kae Byung; Secretary General, Mr Hwang Ki; Standing Directors, Mr. Hyun Jong Myung, Mr. Lee Nam Suk, Mr. Lee Jong woo, Mr. Ko Jae Chun and Mr. Lee Young Suk; Directors, Mr. Um Un Kyu, Mr. Chong Chang Young, Mr. Bae Young Ki and Mr. Nam Tae Hi; Auditors, Mr. Kim Soon Bae and Mr. Cho Byoung Shi. The Korean Ambassador to Vietnam, General Choi Duk Shin, was instrumental in
helping to promote Taekwon-Do in this nation locked in a death struggle with the communists. That same year General Choi Hong Hi published his first Korean text on Taekwon-Do, which became the model for the 1965 edition. “During that year the General attended the Modern Weapons Familiarisation Course in Texas followed by a visit to Jhoon Rhee’s Karate club in San Antonio, where the General convinced the students to use the name Taekwon-Do instead of Karate. Thus Jhoon Rhee is known as the first Taekwon-Do instructor in America. This marked the beginning of Taekwon-Do in the United states of America. Choi returned to Korea as the Director of Intelligence of the Korean Army. Later that same year he assumed command of the Combat Armed Command with direction of the infantry, artillery, armoured, signal and aviation schools. “The years 1961 through 1962 were years of maturing for both Choi’s military career and Taekwon-Do, with the command of the largest training centres in Korea and the newly assigned command of the 6th. Army Corps. Taekwon-Do spread like wildfire, not only to the Korean civilian and military population but also to U.S. soldiers of the 7th. Infantry Division,
which was under his operational control. Through his students, Taekwon-Do was even introduced to the greatest military academy in the world, West Point. “In 1962 Choi was appointed Ambassador to Malaysia,where, as a dedicated missionary of Taekwon -Do, the art was spread. In 1963 the Taekwon-Do Association of Malaysia was formed and attained national acceptance when the art was demonstrated at the Merdeka Stadium at the request of the Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rhaman. “In June of 1963, two important milestones were reached ; the famous demonstration at the United Nations building in New York, and the introduction of Taekwon-Do to the Armed Forces of Vietnam under Major Nam Tae Hi. In February of the following year a Taekwon-Do Association was formed in Singapore and the groundwork was laid for forming Associations in the outer reaches of Brunei.” “In 1965 Ambassador Choi, retired two star general, was appointed by the Government of the Republic of Korea to lead a goodwill mission to West Germany, Italy, Turkey, United Arab Republic, Malaysia and Singapore. This trip is significant in that the Ambassador, for the first time in Korean history declared Taekwon-Do as the national martial art of Korea. This was the basis not only for establishing Taekwon-Do Associations in these countries but also the formation of the International Taekwon-Do Federation as it is known today. In 1966 the dream of the sickly young student of calligraphy, who rose to ambassador and the association president of the most respected martial art in the world, came true. On 22nd. of March the International Taekwon-do Federation was formed with associations in Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, West Germany. the United States, Turkey. Italy, the United Arab republic and Korea.” “In 1967 the father of Taekwon-Do received the First Class Distinguished Service Medal from the government of Vietnam and he helped to form the Korea-Vietnam Taekwon-Do Foundation, presided over by Gen. Tran Van Dong. That same year the Hong Kong TaekwonDo Association was formed. In August Choi visited the All American TaekwonDo tournament held in Chicago, Illinois,
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 9
where he discussed expansion, unification and the policy of the United States Taekwon-Do Association with the leading instructors. This visit led to the formal establishment of the U.S. Taekwon-Do Association in washington D.C. on November 26th., 1967. During this visit Choi also met with Robert Walson, fourth degree black belt and one of the foremost American authorities on Taekwon-Do, to lay the groundwork for a new edition of a book on Taekwon-Do.” “In late 1967 Choi invited Master Oyama to the ITF Headquarters in Soeul to continue the discussion they had had earlier at Hakone, Japan, whereby Master Ozama would eventually change his techniques to that of Taekwon-Do.” “In that same year the President of the ITF selected five instructors from the Armed Forces for Taiwan, at the request of Generalissimo Chiang Kai-Shek. This request was channelled through general Chung Il Kwon, then the Prime Minister of South Korea.” “In 1968 Choi visited France, as the chief delegate of the Korean Government, to attend the Consul International Sports Military Symposium held in Paris. Taekwon-Do was a major topic on the agenda. Delegates from 32 countries witnessed demonstrations of Taekwon-Do by a team of experts. That same year the United Kingdom Taekwon-do Association was formed and Choi visited Spain, the Netherlands, Canada, Belgium and India with the hope of spreading Taekwon-Do.” “When Choi returned to Korea he was presented with the first Sports Research Award from the Republic of Korea for his dedicated work on behalf of the Korean martial art.” “In 1969 Choi toured Southeast Asia to personally investigate the preparations of each country for the First Asian TaekwonDo Tournament that was held in September in Hong Kong. Immediately after the tournament, Choi undertook a worldwide tour of twenty-nine countries to visit instructors and gather photographs for the first edition of his previous book, “”TaekwonDo”” (copyright 1972)” “In August 1970 Choi left on a tour of twenty countries throughout Southeast Asia, Canada, Europe and the Middle East. Choi, of course, held seminars for internatinal instructors every place he went and helped spread and weld the International Taekwon-Do federation into a cohesive force.“ “In March 1971 Choi attended the Second Asian taekwon-do Tournament, held in Stadium Negara in Malaysia , which was opened with the declaration of Tun Abdul Rhajak , the Prime Minister, and closed with the presence of their Majesties.” “During these travels, Choi has been especially interested in promoting Taekwon-Do among the youth of the world. The President of the International Taekwon-Do Federation has been instrumental in introducing the art to numerous universities in Europe, America, the Middle East and the Far east.” “Also in 1972, Choi was asked by Gen. Kim Jong Hyun, head of the Army Martial Art Department, to select qualified instructors for the Republic of Iran Armed Forces.”
10 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
“The world tour of 1972 was quite retrospective in that Choi had an opportunity to introduce Taekwon-Do to those heads of state of Bolivia , Dominica, Haiti and Guatemala respectively.” “In this year, Choi moved the headquarters of the International Taekwon-Do Federation , with the unanimous consent of member countries, to Toronto, Canada, envisaging the spread of this art eventually to the countries of eastern Europe, according to the milestone he set up years before.” “During the months of November and December 1973 , general Choi and a specially selected ITF demonstration team, consisting of Kong Young Il ,Park Jong soo, Rhee Ki Ha, Park Sun Jae and Choi Chang Keun, all 7th degree black belts, toured Europe, the Middle East , Africa and the Far East. A total of 23 countries were visited and new ITF branches established in 5 of these countries. The tour was an overwhelming success with a total of more than 100,000 people watching the demonstrations. At each stop General Choi and the demonstration team were received by ranking representatives of the local governments.” “1974 was indeed an exhuberant and memorable year for Choi, because the founder of Taekwon-Do was not only able to proudly present the superiority of techniques as well as the competition rules of this art, but also to bring his dream into reality by holding the first World Taekwon-Do Championship in Montreal.” “November and December of this same year, he led the 4th. International Taekwon-Do demonstration team , consisting of 10 of the world’s top instructors, to Jamaica, Costa Rica, Colombia, Venezuela and Surinam.” “In 1975, Taekwon-Do alone had the privilege to demonstrate at the Sydney opera house for the first time since its opening. General Choi visited Greece and Sweden to conduct seminars later in the year.” In the middle of 1976 he toured Iran, Malaysia, Indonesia and Europe to inspect Taekwon-Do activities, giving seminars at the same time. November of the same year, Choi went to Holland to declare the opening of the First European Taekwon-Do Championship held in Amsterdam.” “September 1977 the founder of Taekwon-Do visited Malaysia, New Zealand and Australia following the Tokyo meeting in which he publicly denounced the South Korean President, Park Jung Hee, who had been using Taekwon-Do for political ends. Later that year he visited Sweden and Denmark to aid the formation of their national associations of Taekwon-Do.” “In May, 1987, Genral Choi toured Malaysia , apkistan, Kenya and South Africa accompanied by Rhee Ki Ha. In this year he led the 5th. International Taekwon-do Demonstration Team consisting of Choi Chang Keun, Rhee Ki Ha, Park Jung Tae and Leong Wai Meng to Sweden, Poland, Hungary and Yugoslavia.” “In June ,1979, the All Europe Taekwon-Do Federation was formed in Oslo, Norway. After this historic event general Choi toured Sweden, Denmark, West Germany, France and
Greenland accompanied by Khang su Jong and Rhee Ki Ha. In November of that year he led the 6th. International Taekwon-Do Demonstration Team consisting of Kim Jong Chan, Choi Chang Keun, Rhee Ki Ha, Park Jung Tae, Lee Jong Moon, Chung Kwang Duk, Kim Suk Jun and Michael Cormack to Argentina.”
encylopaedia, the culmination of his life long research.”
“The year 1980 was indeed an unforgettable one for the father of Taekwon-Do, both for himself and the future of his art. he and 15 of his students, including his son, Choi Jung Hwa, made a monumental trip to the Democratic People’s Republic. of Korea.”
1987 in Athens Greece for the 5th. 1988 in Budapest, Hungary 6th. 1990 in Montreal, Canada 7th. 1992 in Pyongyang, DPR Korea 8th. 1994 in Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia 9th. 1997 in St Petersburg, Russia 10th. 1999 in Buenos Aires, Argentina 11th. 2001 in Rimini, Italy 12th.
“This was the first time Taekwon-Do was introduced to the people of North Korea, Choi’s birthplace.”
Gen. Choi conducted numerous seminars during his lifetime as he wished all the practitioners to have the same techniques. He was “President” of the ITF throughout his lifetime and spent the majority of his time travelling the world to give advice and help with all aspects of TKD. Even when he was critically ill in 2002, having had surgery on his stomach, he conducted a seminar in the USA and some of it in a wheelchair. There is no doubt about the courage, spirit and dedication of the man known as Gen. Choi Hong Hi, father and Founder of this great martial art of Taekwon-Do. Sadly he died on June 15th. 2002.
“In November of this same year the first All Europe TaekwonDo Championship was held in London with 18 countries participating.” “In January, 1981, Gen. Choi made a visit to Queensland, Australia, accompanied by Choi Chang Keun, to declare open the first Pacific Area Taekwon-Do Championship. At this time he helped to form the South Pacific Taekwon-Do federation as well as the Australia Taekwon-Do Federation.” “In June of the same year Choi led the 8th. International Taekwon-Do Demonstration Team to Tokyo, Japan. In October , he conducted a seminar for the founding members of Taekwon-Do in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, and in November he proudly presented the unified Taekwon-Do demonstration team consisting of North and South Korean instructors to the historic meeting of North and Overseas Korea Christian Leaders held in Vienna, Austria.”
“In October,1984 Choi declared open the 4th.World Taekwondo Championships, held in Glasgow, Great Britain.” Needless to say there followed Wold Championships at regular intervals :
If anyone deserves to be the first person inducted into the ITF Hall of Fame then we believe that a better candidate will not be found.
“In January of 1982 the President of the International Taekwon-Do Federation formed the North America Taekwon-Do Federation in Toronto, Canada.” “In this year Choi was finally able to realise his long anticipated dream (since 1967) when a Taekwon-Do gym opened for the first time in Japan. It was indeed a very busy year for the President in that he visited Puerto Rico in July accompanied by Master Park Jung Tae, to conduct seminars.” “During the months of October and November he toured Greenland, the United Kingdom, west Germany, Austria, Denmark, Poland, Hungary, Yugoslavia, Czechoslovakia and Finland accompanied by Master Han Sam soo and Park Jung Tae to promote Taekwon-Do. He also attended the first Intercontinental Taekwon-do Championships held in Quebec, Canada in November and the second All Europe Taekwon-Do Championships held in December in Naples, Italy. “ “In January,1983, Choi made a visit to Colorado, USA accompanied by Master Lee Suk Hi, the President of the North America Taekwon-Do federation, to grade Charles E. Sereff, the President of the US Taekwon-Do Federation, for 7th. degree.” “During the months of March, April and May he toured Santa Barbara , California, Europe and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea to conduct last minute preparation of the
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 11
Unlikely Star of the ITF World Cup
He explained that only months earlier Niketa was wheelchair bound, unable to walk or even stand. What transpired over the months leading up to the World Cup would (and should) make a great movie. She was going to the World Cup no matter what. And she ended up winning it!
nikita wells* After the Gold Medal was put around her neck, New Zealand Coach Mr Steve Pellow was invited to explain to the entire arena what a remarkable story had just taken place.
Niketa Wells is a remarkable girl. In 2011 Niketa was struck down with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), now more commonly known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). By the end of 2011 she was unable to walk, confined to a wheelchair and in constant pain. New Zealand’s leading pain specialist told her to forget about using her feet ever again. Niketa is a 1st gup at Paul M Papakura, former student of Mr Phil Dunn at Waiuku, and before that with Dan Jackson at Paul M Waiau Pa. She competed for New Zealand in Australia just prior to being struck down with RSD, and had done well at many Regional and National events. It was through her incredible mental toughness and perseverance, that she was able
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and also down on her knees. This would be quite painful at times and also must have taken a lot of courage. This is how she also attended our National Camp in March this year. Our weekend sessions were done at my home with no spectators. Even Niketa’s Mum or Dad were sent off to the local cafe for an hour while we trained. This is the Niketa wanted it and worked well. From talking to her parents I was interested (and dismayed) to note that her specialists had not explored aspects of nutrition. So from early on I had Niketa start taking supplements including coconut, fish oil and vitamin D. The training sessions were very casual, and Niketa would chat away about her week or what was happening in her life. Although casual, there we many times in the hour where she would be in great pain and have to push hard to achieve the goals I set her. In the first few sessions in particular she would be crying, and she showed incredible courage. I recall on the first session with Niketa she was still on two crutches - but at least out of her wheelchair.
Niketa was in a bad way by the end of 2011. I recall seeing her and her Mum at a shopping centre just before Christmas and I could see the immense stress and worry in her Mum’s eyes. Niketa was in her wheel chair – still perky and happy. I vowed then to try and do more to help.
We began by trying to stand in a parallel ready stance. My plan was to do some basic punching, however I quickly realised Niketa could not stand on her own, let alone perform movements. I changed the plan and helped her up onto our trampoline, and stood holding her hands and slowly bounced - well more like just let the tramp move us up and down gently. I remember being amazed at how much I was having to support her weight - I didn’t realise how much she relied on her crutches. Every now and then I would let her go to see if she could support her own weight. She would drop to her knees in pain.
We started private sessions early 2012 and it was great to see she had seen some improvement from December. She had even managed to attend some holiday training sessions on her crutches. Because the pain was now mainly in her lower limbs, she could actually do much of the session, including patterns by using her crutches
At that point we would spar on our knees for fun then try again. After around 20 minutes on the tramp we moved back to the grass and tried standing again, using a chair behind her to sit on when she couldn’t continue. We managed some punches and even some walking stances on that first day.
to beat the condition, return to training, and ultimately take Gold at the ITF World Cup in Brighton. By the time you read this, she would have tested for her 1st degree black belt.
By the second session I had come up with a bit of a routine, and recorded how many of each exercise she could do, or the time it took. My challenge for her was to double the number of each exercise every week, so she would have to practice at home. For example, on session two we did: • Sitting stance punches - 3 • Walking stance - stand in a walking stance for 10 seconds on each side • Walking alone - 10 steps unaided • Front snap kick - 2 kicks each leg (this was almost impossible at this stage). By our third session, Niketa had successfully met my challenge to double the number of techniques she performed the previous week. Over the next few months we continued to work on walking stances, front kicks and normal walking. We would start and end each session with “trampoline sparring”. A highlight of the session for both of us. It seems strange to think back to these sessions now as I write this in November 2012. It was only a dream then that she would fully recover and end up in a tournament and grading again. Niketa’s Mum and Dad are obviously pretty happy and relieved, as they went through a tremendous amount of pain along with her.I have been honoured to teach many people over the years, and helping Niketa was one of my most rewarding instructing experiences. Niketa’s recovery is a combination of things which came together at the right time, most importantly her incredible attitude. She shows such courage throughout while maintaining a positive outlook. Something we can all learn from! See Master McPhail’s Video Diary of Niketa’s recovery at: paulmtkd.blogspot.co.nz
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central america* GM Javier Dacak, ITF- Vice president - Asuntos Centro y Sudamérica
The visit of the Grand Master Javier Dacak to Panama.
F
ollowing the legacy of our father of Taekwon-Do, Gen. Choi Hong Hi, who has given his entire life to the promotion and dissemination of this wonderful art in every country in the world; our organization has taken the lead to follow those wishes. Such motivation for all of us in this organization was a push to program support and assistance to groups of practitioners wandering and scattered in many countries of the world of this style.
Of note is the effort made by the ITF through your technical department to conduct training seminars for this region, as in the case of Central America so peculiar in its geography, which makes easy access to various countries of these latitudes, and still has supported countries like Costa Rica, Jamaica, Dominican Republic, and especially with the visit of the Grand Master Javier Dacak to Panama. As an example we note that the inclusion of Panama to our organization materialized in recent months.
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COSTA RICA Jamaica Dominican Republic Panama
This is the first time in the history of this country, that it began the practice of Taekwon-Do ITF. Our organization wants that through the nomination of Jamaica to host the forthcoming 5th Open World Cup, to achieve a massive call for practitioners in the region and a fantastically strong growth of the practice of Taekwon-Do ITF, organized and institutionalized for final launch of our martial art and sport in all Central American countries.
Our organization wants that through the nomination of Jamaica to host the forthcoming 5th Open World Cup, to achieve a massive call for practitioners in the region and a fantastically strong growth of the practice of Taekwon-Do ITF. As for the growth project it is interesting to note the work of the leader in Panama, Mr. Franz Rodriguez, who began teaching in the country through educational teaching centers (schools), well known in that country, nucleates more than 16 private schools and state, pointing to the massive expansion of the practice through these institutions. Also recognizing the important people to social function ITF Taekwon-Do has in society through similar benefits for children and youth in these institutions, practitioners expressed by parents of GM Javier Dacak during the recent seminar issued in that country.
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IUC
IRELAND* Report by Carl Smullen
International Umpires Course
T
Limerick - 30th June & 1st July
he Irish Taekwon-Do Association hosted an
get the chance to compete, and that the team competition
International Umpires Course in Limerick on the
would not finish after one team had won three bouts. The
weekend of the 30th of June & 1st of July. The event
consequences of this new system were discussed with the
was the largest Umpires course ever run by the ITF
experienced umpires, coaches and competitors in attendance
with over 180 participants from 18 countries in attendance. This
given a chance to offer their opinion. This change to the
was an historic IUC as it was the first time that the updated ITF
rules in particular is bound to make an exciting impact at the
rules, which will be introduced from January 2013, were presented.
next world championships to be held in Benidorm in 2013.
The Umpire course began on Saturday afternoon with Master
The final day of the IUC began on Sunday morning at 9am in
Kenneth Wheatley, ITA President welcoming the attendees
the University Arena; the ITA volunteers had worked tirelessly to
from around the world as well as welcoming and introducing
set up 5 competition areas, including areas for special technique
Grandmaster Bos 9th Dan member of the ITF Technical
and power testing. The impressive arena looked almost ready to
Committee and Director of the ITF, as well as all members of the
host a major championships and all those in attendance were
ITF tournament and umpire committees. The opening address
extremely impressed. The agenda for Day 2 began with the
was delivered by Mr Brendan Dowling, the President of the Irish
new system for umpiring patterns. This represents of the major
Martial Arts Commission, and the National governing body for
changes to the rules with each competitor beginning with 10
martial arts in Ireland. Mr Dowling spoke of the importance
points at the beginning of the match and accruing ½ point &
of working in a spirit
full point deductions
of cooperation within
for any errors that
martial arts as well
occur
as the positive role
the
performance,
that IMAC has played
the
competitor
in the development
with
of martial arts in
remaining score after
Ireland. Mr Dowling
the
also
will be the winner.
praised
the
throughout
the
highest
performance
ITA for their work in
promoting
Taekwon-Do
and
After a short break, the umpire committee
their contribution to
moved
IMAC over the past
updated rules for pre-
number
arranged sparring, one
of
years.
on
to
the
of the changes being One of the highlights of the first day was the introduction
that only one acrobatic sequence per competitor will now
of the new team sparring procedures. The ITF delegates
be allowed per performance. Master Katz also explained that
explained that one of the reasons for the change was to ensure
only 1 successful blow should be performed at the end of the
each competitor who travels to a major championship would
routine and all other techniques should be defended against
16 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
The event was the largest Umpires course ever run by the ITF with over 180 participants from 18 countries in attendance. This was an historic IUC as it was the first time that the updated ITF rules, which will be introduced from January 2013, were presented. or dodged in line with the Taekwon-
sparring match under the guiding eye of
position for a group photo and with that
Do principle of ‘One Blow, One victory’
Master Sandy Dunbar, Master Vones and
the IUC had come to an end. A big thank
Mr Ottesen, while Master Katz displayed
you must be given to the organising
The IUC broke for lunch following the
video clips of various interactions that
committee, the local committee and the
prearranged section and resumed with
could occur within a sparring match and
volunteers who put in a huge amount of
the umpiring procedures for sparring
asked the participants to decide what
work in the months prior to the event
being presented by Mr Kurt Ottesen. After
action should be taken in each situation.
as well as over the weekend to make
presenting the rules and procedures for
This proved a very useful method for
the International Umpires Course such a
running a sparring ring council, the ITF
helping the umpires to sharpen their
success, gratitude must also be expressed
Delegates asked some of the current
skills and make the correct decision.
to the event sponsors Top Pro Sports,
competitors in attendance to demonstrate
Acist Skillnet and Clare Spring water.
the level of contact which is acceptable
The IUC finished at 7:30pm with a
in competition as well as what would be
closing address by Grandmaster Bos.
deemed heavy contact. One of the more
GM Bos thanked the Irish Taekwon-Do
notable changes to the sparring rules
Association for their warm hospitality
is that one point may now be deducted
and once again congratulated the
for grabbing or holding, the Umpire
association on running an excellent
Committee spent some time explaining
event. Grandmaster Bos said he looked
the circumstances in which a minus point
forward to returning to Ireland for a
would be given. Again the participants
future event to be held at the superb
had an opportunity to get some practical
facilities of the University of Limerick
experience as part of a jury council for a
campus. All 180 participants then took
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 17
The success of our National Teams over these past two years has shown all in ITF just how united we truly are, with great success in all Team disciplines, with representation from every group with no exceptions.
SCOTLAND* Youth Development and National Team Training in Scotland
T
here has been a significant change in the National Team over the last few years in Scotland. One of the first things the ITFS administration did way back in 2010 was develop a five year plan for coaching in order to raise standards of our competitors competing at the major international competitions in all of the Quadrathlon events. The coaching structure, implemented was to be headed overall National Team or Performance Director, whose job it is to set out the goals for the team for the period and monitor the teams’ performance, through liaison with the coaching staff. The coaching positions available were: 1) Senior Sparring Coach plus assistant(s) 2) Senior Pattern Coach plus assistant(s) 3) Power and Special Technique Coach 4) Fitness and Conditioning Coach 5) Youth Development Coach plus Assistant(s) These positions were all advertised and all candidates for the positions were interviewed and asked how much time they were willing to put into the position and how they expected to achieve the goals set to them. The rationale was that if every coach involved had a specific role to play according to their strengths, then it was felt that we could have better focused instruction and spread the coaching responsibilities and time commitment over several shoulders.
18 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
The effect of committed coaches was apparent straight away. The performance and team spirit during sessions was clear and the bond between coaches and competitors started to grow significantly. A major boost for morale was Head Sparring Coach, Mr Robin Blair VI Degree being successful in getting a full time location for the National Team Training. This boost was energised more with the local Sports Council donating £5000 worth of equipment to support our Scotland National Team. With this money tatamis were purchased along with training equipment. The squad now meets every week on a Sunday morning and afternoon under the guidance of Mr Blair VI degree; Mr David Condie IV degree and Mr Michael Leask II degree where the members have access to a gym and swimming pool as well as a fully matted training hall. Never before has Scotland had such professional facilities to assist our competitors.
ITF SCOTLAND BOARD ITF / AETF TOURNAMENT ORGANISATION COMMITTEE
NATIONAL TEAM DIRECTOR
NATIONAL TEAM COACHING STRUCTURE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT COACH (S)
CONDITIONING COACH
ADMINISTRATION AND TEAM LOGISTICS
HEAD TEAM PATTERNS / Pre-Arranged Sparring COACH
HEAD TEAM SPARRING COACH
ASSISTANT SPAR COACH 1 ASSISTANT PATT COACH 1
ASSISTANT SPAR COACH 2
HEAD TEAM POWER / SPEC TECH COACH ASSISTANT if Required
ASSISTANT PATT COACH 2
Regional Training in the north has been also been implemented at Master Wallace’s Academy in Aberdeen, to help with competitor travel costs and this is under the guidance of Master Wallace VII degree, Mr Jamie Campins VI deg and Senior Pattern Coach Mr Mark Boydell V degree. The training is open for 13 year olds, 6th kup and above one of the main milestone achievements of the year was that we finally got the ITFS Youth Development Programme underway. This training runs weekly at the ITFS centre before the main squad training session. This training is for 6-12 year olds and has been a fantastic success with 30-40 attending each week down south and 20-25 in Aberdeen when these sessions are run. The youth system is heavily promoting movement, speed kicking drills and ring work. All this is done in a child friendly manner and secure environment with individuals being monitored weekly for improvement. All squad members, youth and senior get an identity in their squad T-Shirt of which they are very proud. It is all the little things that bond a squad and weekly training and team T-Shirts has promoted a great sense of belonging.
also wish to be considered for the team sparring and so their will have to travel down to the sparring centre the following day. Through this intensive training we are now developing very committed competitors and this spirit is now starting to show with better results. Our senior development squad every week is a busy place to be. Our squad is growing in numbers and we are now attending as many official ITF and open events to gain experience for our competitors. In 2012 we took our members to Holland, Sweden, Slovenia, Wales, Ireland, England as well as national events to develop our competitors. At the recent European Championships in Slovenia we took over 50 competitors, this is a massive increase in numbers and we look forward to strengthening the squad for 2013. Our youth development system has already graduating students into the full squad. ITF Scotland is also gearing up to have more qualified umpires travelling with the team and we hope to have more attendees at the ITF IUC’s this year. After the World Cup results from our schools, Scotland came back on a high and all the coaches and competitors can’t wait for 2013. Our five year plan is on track. Master Hutton VII, Team Director added: “It is with a definite sense of pride that I look back over the last two years at the incredible progress made on all fronts within ITF Scotland. This progress is undoubtedly due to the depth of feeling within every group that makes up ITF Scotland, to see us come together with one goal, to see Taekwon-do flourish again. To ensure every Instructor & student no matter their previous affiliation, have the opportunity to enjoy the incredible benefits ITF affiliation affords, whether they wish to become International Instructors, Umpires or competitors, ITF Scotland now ensures all have these opportunities. The success of our National Teams over these past two years has shown all in ITF just how united we truly are, with great success in all Team disciplines, with representation from every group with no exceptions. This of course is down to the incredible job of our two head coaches, Mr Robin Blair VI (Sparring) & Mr Mark Boydell V (Pattern) ably assisted by Mr David Condie IV & Mr Michael Leask II. Together these coaches have harnessed the two most important aspects of all Team events , namely, great work ethic combined with a real sense of pride, an understanding of the honour & privilege all competitors should feel when representing their country. 2013 promises to be an incredible year, with the two most prestigious events in the ITF calendar a short plane trip from home, have no doubt the teams from ITF Scotland will be prepared as never before to continue our progress & challenge for medals on all fronts.”
When it is time for team pattern training, the training is started 14-16 weeks prior to the intended championships. The training is held at a different venue further north under the guidance of Mr Mark Boydell V degree. These sessions are 5- 7 hours long each Saturday. Most of the members competing in team pattern
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 19
IIC
ARGENTINA* During the 9th and 10th of June was held in ARGENTINA, Buenos Aires Province (Caseros, Cedem No. 1) the 74th IIC. For the first time and because of the high number of participants, two IIC were held at the same time in three huge halls each of 1200 m2, working simultaneously, one IIC dedicated to 1st, 2nd and 3rd Degree, and the other to 4th to 8th Degree, with a total of 30 hours of Course. 660 participants, 38 Masters, guests from Spain, Italy, Costa Rica, Colombia, Brazil, Paraguay, Chile, Uruguay, made this IIC the largest in number of participants in the history of the ITF, they fully enjoyed the Course and the camaraderie. The Technical Committee continuously received displays of affection throughout the whole event which created a pleasant atmosphere at all times. On Saturday the banquet took place, the guests tested the good Argentinean meat and also enjoyed the Tango music from Argentina with a famous couple of dancers hired for the event. We only have words of gratitude for all the Argentine Masters and their students for the support received, and for all who helped to make this possible and to GM Bos and GM Lan, for their effort and quality of teaching. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
20 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
Report by GM Pablo Trajtenberg
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 21
22 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
Importantly, the interest that exists to convey our experiences of the early days of learning compared to the current, created an excitement in assessing the origins of our art.
seminar
chile* Dear Board Members:
It is a pleasure to address you on the occasion of my trip to Chile to report on activities there. I started the seminar on Friday, in modules of 4 hours, likewise, Saturday and Sunday in double shifts. -(January, 11th, 12th and 13th). The seminar was based primarily on protocol and everything related to traditional and conventional practice. Importantly, the interest that exists to convey our experiences of the early days of learning compared to the current, created an excitement in assessing the origins of our art. I placed value on the mystique of a strong class with emphasis given to the protocol between practitioners and instructor, proclaiming at all times the principles and objectives of ITF Taekwon-Do to our society. The amount of practitioners taking part was almost one hundred, with over 30 black belts, several instructors, both from Santiago and other cities. I found a good technical level and specially educated practitioners, which made it easier and more enjoyable to teach. It was a rewarding experience where I have put my best knowledge after the union of the groups in Chile, giving assurance that the ITF is always there to teach and collaborate on any differences with the fairness of the case and ensure best Taekwon -Do for each Chilean that integrates our organization. Yours in Taekwon-Do. Grand Master Javier Dacak
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 23
Development of the ITF on the African Continent SINCE JUNE 2008* By Master Paul Weiler.
Ethiopia: Ethiopian International Taekwon-Do Association = EITA • ITF National Association member since 2008 with now more than 5000 members in 50 clubs (former Ung Chang group). EITA is the biggest TKD Association in Ethiopia (even much bigger than WTF). • Government recognition since 2012. • EITA Board Member Mr. Tamrat Feyessa is the President of Ethiopian International TKD Federation, which is an umbrella organization for TKD and is also recognized by the Government. Activities: • 10 ITF seminars in Addis Ababa plus two IIC’s and two Umpire Courses. • Organization of two African Taekwon-Do Cups ITF in 2011 and 2012 respectively with more than 400 competitors. • Support of club member Kenya by sending a international instructor to Nairobi. • For the first time in ITF history Ethiopia will participate at the World Champs in Spain with 14 people!experience, previous injury, surface used, progressions, volume, recovery, and frequency to name a few.
ITF Seminar in Addis Ababa 2011 with more than 500 participants.
Kenya: Kenya International Taekwon-Do Association = KITA • ITF Club member since 2009 (former WTF) with nearly 200 members in 7 Clubs. • Regional recognition with some connections to the Government.
24 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
2nd African TKD-CUP ITF 2012 with more than 400 competitors.
Activities: • 6 ITF seminars in Nairobi. • participation at the two African Taekwon-Do Cups ITF in 2012 and 2013 in Addis Ababa.
Algeria:Algerian Union I.T.F. Association • ITF club member since 2005. • one ITF seminar in 2012. Activities: • Preparation for the participation at the World Champs in Spain. Perspective: After 5 years of intensive work we can see the result of the development in Africa so far. But this is only the beginning. It is planed for 2014 to conduct a Kid’s course and an IUC in Ethiopia and further seminars in Uganda, South Africa, Zambia (Zimbabwe and Angola) and Mozambique. I would like to take the opportunity to thank sabum Niklas Enander from Sweden for his wonderful work in Uganda.
Seminar participants in Nairobi 2010 with donated ITF doboks,
I also would like to express my thankfulness for the donations (money, doboks, safety equipment etc.) of the ITF members and member federations.
South Africa:Taekwon-Do Association South Africa = TASA • ITF Club Member since 2011 (former Ung Chang group) with 3 clubs. • Connections to other ITF and GTF groups. Activities: • One ITF black belt seminar in September 2013. • Meeting with representatives of SA ITF. • Support of members in Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Morocco: Union Marrocaine de Taekwon-Do ITF • ITF Club member since 2012. • Two ITF seminars. Activities: • Preparation for the participation at the World Champs in Spain. Uganda:Sharing TKD Club Uganda • ITF Club member since August 2013 (former WTF) with 2 clubs. • 4 ITF seminars with black belt promotion tests. Activities: • Preparation for the participation at the World Champs in Spain.
Map for orientation
Mozambique:Assocacao de Taekwon-Do de Provincia de Maputo • ITF Club member (pending) since 2013 (former GTF and Ung Chang group) with 5 clubs. • Two ITF seminars in 2013 (April and September). Activities: • 1st Inter African Cup in Maputo on September 14th, 2013 • Meeting with the Minister of Sport to present the ITF donation material (safety equipment) • Preparation for the participation at the World Champs in Spain
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 25
The Tenets of Taekwon-Do: An Intrinsic Part of Me* Joliette Trân, (B. Sc., M.Sc.) ITF Black Belt, 6th degree
…the success or failure of Taekwon-Do training depends largely on how one observes and implements the tenets of Taekwon-do which should serve as a guide for all serious students of the art” - General Choi.
T
aekwon-Do is an art of self-defence and also a way of life. Indeed, there is an emphasis in Taekwon-Do on learning how to use scientifically the body for self-defence. There is also one on promoting and developing a sense of morality, and instilling an ideal of noble moral character. (Condensed Encyclopedia of Taekwon-Do by General Choi Hong Hi, 1999, p.15). This is why Taekwon-Do is a martial art, as opposed to a sport. The ultimate goal of Taekwon-Do, as defined and conceptualized by General Choi Hong Hi, is to build a better world - a world where freedom, justice, peace and humanity prevail. General Choi Hong Hi, the Father of Taekwon-Do, always considered that good behavior and moral standards were just as important as physical training in the making of a martial artist and the building of a better world. In his last publication, entitled Moral Guide Book (2000), he wrote: “…the only way one can truly achieve the status as a man of Taekwon-Do is to go beyond the technical aspect and establish a lifestyle based on a solid code of morality” (p.9). But what exactly is this way of life? What is this code of morality? To answer these questions, one needs to refer to the tenets of Taekwon-Do, which provide a simple and straightforward guide to good behaviour and moral development. These tenets are so important that General Choi wrote: “…the success or failure of Taekwon-Do training depends largely on how one observes and implements the tenets of Taekwon-do which should serve
26 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
as a guide for all serious students of the art” (Condensed Encyclopedia of Taekwon-Do by General Choi Hong Hi, 1999, p.13). The essence of the moral culture of Taekwon-Do is summarized in the five tenets of Taekwon-Do: “Courtesy”, “Integrity”, “Perseverance”, “Self-Control”, and “Indomitable Spirit”. These words have been part of my life for more than 30 years. I have been reciting them at the beginning of each Taekwon-Do class ever since I began to practise Taekwon-Do. I have also heard my late father speak about the tenets of Taekwon-Do many times over those years. My father was someone who lived by these values. All his actions and decisions were guided by them. The Taekwon-Do philosophy and my Vietnamese cultural upbringing are so closely intertwined that I cannot differentiate between the two. However, I know they shaped my identity and have come to be an intrinsic part of myself. Ten years ago, I met my husband. As a philosopher, he asked me what guided me in life. I spontaneously answered “I am trying to build a more peaceful world through courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and courage”. This made me realize that I was an adult who had decided to live by these principles because I could find in them clear and simple guidance to achieve my goals, to be happier, and to have more satisfying relationships with others.
Applying the Tenets of Taekwon-Do In choosing to apply the tenets of Taekwon-Do in my life, I also chose to raise my children in accordance with these values, and to be an instructor who helps students get better in the application of the tenets through the practise of Taekwon-Do. It is important for our children to learn to persevere. When my six year-old daughter tells me that she is not able to tie a knot or that she struggles when reading a new word, I remind her to try again even if it is difficult. I guide her through these experiences one step at a time, giving her a chance to experience success along the way so she can overcome difficulties in a progressive manner. I try to educate her the same way I learned and progressed in Taekwon-Do. I am fortunate to have ongoing discussions with Dr. Janel Gauthier, a psychologist and a professor of psychology, who worked with my father on the teaching of the Do for more than 20 years and who was already working closely with him on this topic when I was still a young teenager. Thanks to him, I am more skilled at explaining to my students what perseverance is about and at helping them to develop perseverance. When I teach them Taekwon-Do, I help them to develop perseverance not only through words of encouragement. I also
use feedback to let them identify what is correct or not in their techniques and I show them how to do it better. I also help them set concrete, realistic, and progressive goals so that they can gradually and steadily improve their techniques. As a Taekwon-Do Instructor, I need to find the most appropriate teaching methods to help my students make progress in achieving their goals, to build their selfconfidence, and to keep them motivated. Sometimes, I review with them the way they go about reaching their goals. I want them to become aware of the strategies they use to overcome difficulties and keep trying in Taekwon-Do and other domains of their life. They then realize that they overcome difficulties through continuous hard work, or asking help, or trying another way, or being more flexible in the objective, or focusing on progress rather than failure, or any combination thereof. Another tenet that I improved significantly through my Taekwon-Do training is indomitable spirit. Some practitioners need to practise controlling their high energy and controlling the power of their techniques. As for me, I practised controlling my own fears. For many years, I did not like sparring, being afraid to get hurt. I became tired of receiving so many punches in the face. So I decided to do something about it. I wanted my opponent to respect me. With perseverance, I practised techniques and developed
attitudes that suited my personality. I became very good at using yopcha jirugi to stop my opponent and I gained a great deal of self-confidence. But the problem with sparring is that it is never over. I still get hurt. At times, it is my body that is in pain, and at other times, it is my pride. Because I did not want to give up, these experiences contributed to developing my indomitable spirit. I find it quite useful to have indomitable spirit in my everyday life. I consider that I am courageous when I act in accordance with my values and beliefs at the risk of not succeeding, losing an interesting position, losing money, disappointing a person, or being rejected. Luckily, I do not need to face 300 soldiers and my life is not endangered. However, I am confronted daily with my own uncertainties and doubts: going back to school even if I have a comfortable job, ending a relationship that does not satisfy me, communicating a negative evaluation to a student, giving up a secure and well-paying job to open my Taekwon-Do school, expressing a divergent opinion at a parents’ meeting at school or calling a human resources director to offer my services. When my father was held against his will in Vietnam in 1994-1997, I left my home town to study occupational therapy in Montreal. I felt uneasy about leaving
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 27
I am trying to build a more peaceful world through courtesy, integrity, perseverance, selfcontrol and courage”
28 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
my mother during this difficult period of our lives. However, I had to pursue my studies if I were to achieve financial stability in the future. Furthermore, I was given the opportunity of studying in the field of my dreams. With regular communication and visits, this separation made us both realize that we were strong enough to take care of ourselves. Like everyone else, there are circumstances that I cannot control in life. For example, I cannot choose who I will compete against in a Taekwon-Do championship. However, through training, I can exercise control over the way I think about it (cognitive control), the way I feel about it (emotional control), and the way I deal with it (behavioral control). I cannot be successful all the time, but I can do my best all the time. Focusing on doing my best all the time helps me to do better not only when I practise Taekwon-Do, but also when I do other things in my life. My motivation to learn and teach the Do Teaching and promoting the tenets of Taekwon-Do amounts to teaching and promoting the Do in Taekwon-Do. I had the privilege of working alongside my father and Dr. Gauthier on developing the Do program during the second half of 2000. Both of them had strong moral values and highly ambitious goals. Developing the Do program with them has helped me in my teaching. However, it is still difficult for me to teach the Do because I do not have as much experience in teaching the tenets of TaekwonDo as I have in teaching the techniques of Taekwon-Do (e.g., saju jirugi). However, I wholeheartedly embrace this challenge for several reasons. First, teaching the tenets of Taekwon-Do helps to enhance the effectiveness of Taekwon-Do training and it helps students to improve their techniques more efficiently. Second, Taekwon-Do students are eager to learn about the Do because it applies well at school, at work and at home. It also adds to the positive benefits of practising a physical activity. Third, it is my way of helping to build a better and more peaceful world.
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 29
the kids program* The Taekwon-Do Children’s Development Program (Kids Program), ITF’s official program, aims to contribute to building a more peaceful world through an approved system of teaching Taekwon-Do to various categories of children. It serves as a guide for lesson planning and provides resources to achieve the educational objectives of instructors. It is a flexible tool that allows and requires the participation of all instructors around the world to improve content and adapt it to the particular circumstances of each country. And speaking of tools, the Kids Program is close to launching the first stage of the new dedicated website, which seeks greater interaction with students, parents and teachers of children, as well as introducing new resources commensurate with the potential of new technologies and means of communication between all members of the ITF. Used in South America, Europe and soon in Central America, North America and Africa, the Kids Program grows, as do our children and our Taekwon-Do ITF.
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International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 31
PLYOMETRICS*
By Maja Kralovcova, CEP, CSCS, B.Kin
Plyometrics are considered to be one of the major tools for developing athletic power and speed and is currently one of the most time-efficient training methods available for the healthy athlete. Performing plyometric movements has possibly the greatest transfer to sport application. Plyometric movements are practiced at a high velocity to improve the performance of activities requiring speed, such as in taekwondo. Plyometric techniques can be executed for the entire body and should mimic specific movements used in competition. This type of training that is specific or similar to the activity to be performed is trusted to be optimal. This method is best explained as exercises that train the fast-twitch muscle fibers along with the nerves and reflexes that activate them. These exercises include a variety of hopping, jumping, and bounding in various planes of movement (up/ down, left/right, and forward/backward). They can be done with minimum equipment at a surface of choice.
Ideally, plyometric movements would get organized into a suitable program. Prior to implementing a plyometric program, there are several aspects that need to be taken into consideration: age, body weight, strength, sport requirements, experience, previous injury, surface used, progressions, volume, recovery, and frequency to name a few.
32 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
Plyometric movements are practiced at a high velocity to improve the performance of activities requiring speed and they can be executed for the entire body and should mimic specific movements used in competition.
Like other forms of training, plyometrics should usually be only performed two or three times a week. Training has to occur in a non-fatigued state; therefore, these exercises need to be practiced before or at the beginning of sport specific training sessions. Start with low intensity exercises and use a progression of movements before attempting more complex movements. It is recommended to start with only one or two exercises in a training session and then add more to the routine as needed.
The main struggle with creating a plyometric program tends to be the indication of the correct level of intensity. Intensity depends primarily on the specific exercises performed but the height that the athlete jumps up to or down from is a very effective predictor of plyometric intensity as well. The higher up/ down from the jump is, the higher is the intensity. Generally, any single leg plyometric movements are going to be more intense than the same exercise performed on both legs.
Sufficient rest between sets is necessary in order to avoid turning it into endurance training. As a general rule, rest five to ten times more than it takes you to perform the set of plyometrics. Use a range of repetitions such as sets of one, three, five, and ten repetitions in order to train explosiveness as well as power endurance across a continuum.
If improving variables such as speed, jumping ability, and agility is your goal, then plyometrics will likely be your most important tool. Maximizing plyometric program effectiveness and preventing injuries will depend on the sound progression of exercise intensity. If you are not experienced or confident about any aspects of plyometric training it is advisable to seek an advice from a certified professional (i.e. strength and conditioning coach) with experience in your concrete sport.
The training volume of any given training session is typically measured by the number of foot contacts. Beginners often perform approximately 80 to 100 foot ground contacts per session. However, half of that amount may be appropriate, particularly for children, older adults, or those who are untrained.
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 33
Self
defense* AUTODEFENSE
Master Pierre Laquerre, black belt 8th degree wrote a book in 2005 on self defence: J’apprends l’autodéfense. A new edition appeared in 2012.
The goal in self defence is to avoid the confrontation by prevention, communication and mind preparation with on the base, simple and effective techniques.
After many seminars in Canada, Master Laquerre decided to include in a book the program on self defence to give to all people who have an interest on this subject; from beginners or practitioners with all ready some abilities, or those wish to just to add more material to their techniques. The goal in self defence is to avoid the confrontation by prevention, communication and mind preparation with on the base, simple and effective techniques. It is not necessary to wait for the physical attack to react. It is possible to react when we have a bad feeling in about a situation. But be careful before you react physically, just some words, body position, and self-confidence can change a situation to your advantage.
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In Taekwon-do, we have all the tools to help us with good training to react in a self defence situation. General Choi Hong hi gave us much information in the Encyclopedia to build our defence. All techniques are a logical application of the pattern, fundamental movements, and sparring.
If we look actually, it is not easy to do that, because we work in pattern to find a way to win in tournament. The most important point is now, beauty and clear movement, we forget a little bit the purpose with imaginary opponents. For example: if we use saju jirugi (four directions punch) to understand the application of the movements. We use the mass for the punch and block, we learn the rotation of the attacking tool and the trajectory of the low block.
These techniques will be effective only if the student uses the training with realism and based on real life situations. (With a good mind preparation) We will use three main ways to release in a situation: 1st: attack on a vital spot 2nd: action to break the arm or wrist 3rd: logical action to release with a counter attack All the time we will use the philosophy of taekwon-do to avoid the fight: 1st:: explain your wish to be involved in the situation 2nd: use all ability to avoid the fight 3rd: use only the strength necessary to release But if you have no choice and you must use the self defence techniques, don’t forget to add all parts of the theory of power in your defence. During your training, keep in memory these three things: Practice when the action is coming to you, second when the action is already on you and third when the opponent gives an action to your body by pushing or pulling. Don’t forget to review the vitals spots, and the attacking tools. Our reaction will be based on the striking motion but we can use also grabbing motions, sweeping motions, as well as pulling or pushing the opponent, can all be tools to help us to build our self defence. We can practice at the beginning, four direction punch (saju jirugi) to understand how to use speed by rotation of the attacking tool, how to perform low block and use the mass to add power. The reaction force will help us also to release on grabbing and perform a counter attack quickly. How we can use the movements that come from the patterns for self defence?
Next, we practice with a partner to release from a wrist grab. The opponent grabs your wrist or forearm and pulls you; you use your mass and follow the action. Use the same action as for the low block and in the same time you move forward, you block the forearm of the opponent and you pull your hand (the hand grabbed by the opponent) with the reaction force of your hip, in fast motion you will punch to the face of your opponent with the fist now free of grabbing. Pictures show very well this first technique. The more the technique is advanced, the more options you will have. The defence will be different if my opponent grabs my wrist and he wants to hit me with the other hand, my first reaction will be different. Take time to look at the picture and begin to enjoy to practice your patterns with application of self defence. Enjoy your training
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 35
africa
development* South Africa
Mozambique
T
ASA = Taekwon-Do Federation South Africa under the leadership of Sabum Bert Gey van Pittius (5th degree) is working very hard to promote TKD ITF in this country. Recently a large number of clubs has broken away from Ung Chang group and has shown interest during a meeting to become our member. A decision will be taken very soon at the General Assembly of this group. Sabum van Pittius is also ready to help and support the work of Master Weiler and to teach in Mozambique and/or Zambia. The next seminar in South Africa will be scheduled for March 2014. Master Weiler with Sabum Bert Gey van Pittius at the 1st ITF seminar in Pretoria Mozambique – a new ITF member! During the second visit in Mozambique this year Master Weiler was delighted to realize that:
36 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
Ethiopia
By Master Paul Weiler ITF Senior Vice-President
Assocacao de Taekwon-Do ITF de Provincia de Maputo is now registered at the government and has all the required papers ready so send to the ITF • The Minister of Youth and Sport, Mr. Fernando Sumbana, has a big interest in the development of Taekwon-Do ITF, especially in the Kid’s program. He was very much impressed about the ITF program and the donation material (safety equipment of TOP TEN). Mst. Weiler presents a part of the safety equipment to the Minister. • The Minister and his team have kept their promise from the day before and visited the 1st Inter African Cup at Maria Ana Mogas school on September 14th, 2013. Competitors and spectators at the 1st Inter African Cup • Some clubs from Ung Chang group and from GTF joined already the new ITF Federation under the leadership of Joel dos Santos and more will come.
Ethiopia – the largest ITF Organization in Africa on the fast lane! EITA = Ethiopian International Taekwon-Do Association is growing very fast (now more than 5000 members in 50 clubs and another 7 instructors has been promoted to 4th degree). Meanwhile EITA is much bigger than WTF or any other TKD Federation in Ethiopia and new projects are already under progress. For the end of July 2014 it is scheduled to organize a Kid’s course, an International Umpire Course, a technical seminar and the 3rd African Cup TKD ITF. At the moment the federation is in the intensive preparation for the participation at the World Champs in Spain. The flights and the hotel are booked and the visas are issued already. For the first time in history Ethiopia ITF will be able to participate at World Champs! Let us welcome them!
• Mr. John Ngulube from Zambia, who participated at the technical seminar, is very interested in becoming a member and requested already a seminar for Zambia. The next step of the new federation is to be recognized in six provinces. After that the nationwide recognition can be requested and the chances are good especially with the help of the Minister of Youth and Sports. At the and of the technical seminar 7 members have been promoted to 1st degree and 6 members to 2nd degree.
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 37
ITF Communications & Marketing Committee Report* T he ITF Communications and Marketing Committee consists of three (3) members:
Mr. Stephen Ryan from Ireland as Chairman (sryan@taekwondo.ie), Mr. Paco Ferrando from Spain as Coordinator (pakitetferrando@gmail.com) and Mr. Fabian Izquierdo from Argentina as Publicity Expert (fabianiz03@gmail.com)
The committee will work to promote ITF initiatives and activities. We will endeavour to ensure our work will be specific, concise and objective and be consistent with ITF quality policies and the spirit of ITF Taekwon-Do. The ITF communications committee will work to ensure that the reputation, image and perception of the ITF is maintained at an exemplary level, therefore best serving the needs and interests of its members as well as increasing the possibility of attracting new members and sponsors to ITF. We ask for the support of each NA and AA to commit to sending us articles, photos and news from each ITF regions around the world. The communications committee has started several new projects already. Here is a summary of some of our work so far and future plans.
38 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
Websites
The communications committee will work in coordination with the webmasters to ensure the ITF website is up to date, consistent in the quality of its content and one of the main tools for communicating with ITF members throughout the world as well as the general public, possible future members and sponsors. As well as the main ITF website the committee will oversee the new website for the ITF Kids Programme and the website for approved ITF equipment and merchandise. Key to ensuring that all of these services are up to date is the cooperation and support of all ITF members. We need your ideas, news and articles.
ITF social media pages will be as follows: • Photos from ITF events will be published • Links to news items on ITF website to drive traffic to website • Bulletins from various ITF committees: Anti-doping news, Tournament rules updates and announcements etc. • Bulletins from the office of the President • Bulletins from the ITF board & ITF office for general members • Campaigns to promote official ITF events • Links to interviews with ITF Masters and Grandmasters • Information on joining ITF • Photo competitions for ITF members – e.g. best side kick picture, best teaching picture, family picture, best coaching picture, best kids in action photo etc • Educational information about the ITF and Taekwon-Do • Professional images and adverts to promote ITF Taekwon-Do Again we ask for the support of national association reporters and continental federation reporters in order to aid our in our work and on receiving reports on ITF events around the world for the website and social media pages.
ITF Magazine
Future Plans for social Media include establishing Google+, Picasa and YouTube channels.
The communications committee will have responsibility for the ITF online magazine “Taekwon-Do Generation” which will be released through the ITF website. We have just completed the latest edition for you to enjoy and work has already begun on the next issue. Again this is a key tool in promoting the ITF and we welcome ideas for articles for future editions as well as contributors who would like to submit articles, interviews, and news on projects in your region or country for consideration for inclusion in the magazine. We will also work on making all back issues of the magazine available for download on the website.
Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Picasa Web albums, Youtube) A new and important dimension for the ITF in communicating has been the use of social media. We have already established an official ITF Facebook (www.facebook.com/ InternationalTKDFederation) and Twitter Page (www.twitter. com/ITFofficialpage). These social media pages will be used as a tool to promote the ITF as a quality brand, to drive more traffic to the ITF website, to give instant updates on ITF events and target the younger generation of ITF members throughout the world. Some of the main activities associated with the official
International Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org • 39
YouTube We will soon launch an official You Tube channel for the ITF. This channel will need assistance from some people outside of the committee who are regular attendees at ITF events and willing to share high quality video recordings. The channel can be used as a promotional and marketing tool for the ITF in several ways including: • Video clips from ITF continental and world championships • Exclusive videos from championships finals • Interviews with ITF Masters and Grandmasters • Press conferences with ITF technical committee members, ITF board members etc. • Promotional clips from IICs – short clips to promote the IICs, to promote the quality of our technical team, short snippets of technical information to entice members to register on IICs • Promotional videos to market the ITF • Videos from ITF Umpire Committee regarding rules e.g. tutorials on centre refereeing etc. We are already working on promotional material that will be released through the YouTube channel in the coming months. We will be conducting interviews at the ITF World Championships with ITF officials, Grand Masters, Masters, Coaches, Umpires and competitors that will be published on the official You Tube channel. In addition to this we will be publishing video of matches and highlights from the World Championships.
40 • Intenational Taekwon-Do Federation • www.tkd-itf.org
Picasa photo albums There are many people around the world who have a collection of quality photos from ITF events and important activities from our history. We propose to use Picasa web albums as a way to archive photos of ITF activities and keep a collection of current ITF events up to date. Again we would need assistance from ITF members around the world who would be willing to contribute their photos. Only high quality photos and photos of ITF activities and events to be used such as: • Pictures from ITF events around the world • Historical photos from important ITF events in the past • Photo archive of major ITF activities Conclusion We look forward to receiving the feedback, support and any additional ideas from all ITF members. The support and cooperation of ITF members is key to our work and to achieving our goals. We look forward to working to promote the ITF.
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