International Referring: Master Sophia Haynes

Congratulations to Master Sophia Haynes, who continues to develop her International Referring experience.

Master Sophia was selected to referee at the Gangwon-Chuncheon 2024 World Taekwondo Demonstration & Breaking Championships.

International referees were selected from around the world (UK, Finland, Iran, Egypt, Turkey, Mexico, Brazil, Russia, USA, South Korea, China, Chinese Taipei, Australia and New Zealand) to participate in this event. The athletes showed amazing technical skills and here are some breaking pictures taken by the organising committee.

Sophia wishes to extend her thanks for the support she has received. "I am thankful for the support from

-my MNA:Taekwondo New Zealand

-my MO: Taekwondo Union New Zealand

-my club: Victoria University Taekwondo

in my journey as an international referee.

I am enjoying this opportunity to learn, develop and grow. Thank you World Taekwondo for this opportunity to officiate as a referee for the Gangwon-Chuncheon 2024 World Taekwondo Demonstration & Breaking Championships. Many thanks to Chuncheon Leisure Taekwondo Organizing Committee for all the logistics. Next stop is Daegu for the Poomsae international referee refresher course ."

http://m.worldtaekwondo.org/competition/view.html...

This is perfect timing as WT has just released an update to the Poomsae rules.

International Refereeing Course

Master Sophia took part recently in the 53rd international Poomsae referee refresher course held in Daegu, South Korea (8-12th July). The course took place over 4 days of instructions under the expert tutelage of Dr Jun C Yoon (WT Poomsae referee chairman) and Professor 곽택용 (WT Poomsae Instructor). The fifth day consisted of three examinations (written, scoring and practical) and the closing ceremony.

Master Sophia is in great company as her classmates consist of experienced referees and seminar participants from around the world, ranging from Iran, Egypt, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, India, China, Russia, Mongolia, USA, Purto Rico, Mauritius, Canada, Brazil, Australia and New Zealand. The participants also consisted of Poomsae world champions (and coach), together with Korean grandmasters. Definitely a great place to upskill in a supportive environment.

Many thanks to WT education department senior director Dr JungSeok Yoo for organizing the Referee education program and Keimyung University for hosting the seminar at their beautiful campus.

Master Sophia will share the updated rules and regulations at the Poomsae referee training 9-12 noon on Friday 16 August, hosted by Budo South. Please email gms@newzealandtaekwondo.co.nz to register your attendance.