By LIAM TWOMEY
ATHLETES from HanMu Taekwondo centre in East Keilor are preparing for the experience of a lifetime.
The centre recently qualified 10 competitors to compete at the National Championships next month.
What makes the achievement even more impressive is that HanMu Taekwondo has only been open for 18 months.
Head coach Diego Chiriff said it was great to see his athletes perform so well after a short time in the sport.
“We started this school about 18 months ago and since then we have had kids join us from the local area,” he said.
“Some of them are national champions already.
“This year is a big year now. We have got 10 competing for nationals which is fantastic.
“We have been gifted with some kids that have got natural ability and they are getting a lot of support from parents which is basically what you need.”
Chiriff also has a wealth of knowledge as an instructor after previously representing Australia at the World Championships.
Although rapt with the outstanding results so far, he said the enjoyment of his students was more important than any medals.
“To me results are one thing but what I aim for is to have kids who become leaders,” he said.
“That is how I look at it. I’ve always asked, what’s your goal and what do you want out of this?
“I’m glad that they don’t all say I want a gold medal because it is not all about that. It is about the experience of being there.
“It is really something getting up in front of thousands of people and performing and doing what you need to do and taking that on board.”
The National Championships kick off of 13 September at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre.
