T-UK Umpire Course

On Sunday 24 March, Taekwon-Do UK held the first Umpire Course of the year at the Trident Academy at Sale Rugby Club.  The course was run by Master Ian Ridley VII, Mr Jonathan Emm V and Mr Alan Smith V, some of our most experienced and respected Umpires, and saw students from all over the North West, as well as a few who travelled up from Stratford, in attendance.

From T-UK, we had Miss Emma Ridley and Mr Anton Chung present.

The morning session was quite an involved and long session involving a presentation on all aspects of the tournament square, highlighting all roles and responsibilities and covered class D to Class A umpires duties.

In the afternoon, those attending had a chance to practice their skills at judging pattern and sparring and also for seniors like Emma, a chance to have a go at the role of the referee, which is really complicated when you first try.

Procedures for breaking were also covered. This course is not only useful for officials but also a very good indication of what is being looked for in terms of competitors.

Both Emma and Anton did very well and seemed to enjoy the day. We look forward to seeing them helping out on a ring at the next T-UK Championships