Inside Kiwi-Sport

This post provides background and context for the Premium video Inside Kiwisport, which looks at how Taekwon-Do was introduced into schools through the Kiwisport programme supported by Sport New Zealand. The initiative was designed to give school-aged children a fun, engaging introduction to Taekwon-Do while promoting active participation in sport.

Acting as the Kiwisport Coordinator, Master McPhail developed a programme that balanced the physical side of Taekwon-Do with its martial arts discipline, culture, and core values. The aim was not only to keep children active, but also to introduce them to the tenets and structure that make Taekwon-Do unique as a martial art.

The programme was initially adopted by a small number of schools, but interest grew rapidly. Today, over a thousand children take part each year, the programme has expanded into secondary schools, and several instructors are now able to teach Taekwon-Do full time as a direct result of its success.

Classes typically run for 45 minutes and give students a broad introduction to Taekwon-Do. Children learn basic Korean terminology and the core values, or tenets, of Taekwon-Do before moving on to technical skills, simple self-defence, and controlled punching and kicking pad work.

Instructor Lianna McCartney from Zeal Taekwon-Do Otahuhu shares her experience delivering the programme in schools, noting the strong engagement from students and the enthusiasm shown for each lesson. Feedback from schools, including comments featured in the Redoubt School newsletter, highlights how much the children enjoy the classes.

The programme has generated significant interest from both students and teachers who want to learn more about Taekwon-Do. Many participants go on to visit local clubs, try introductory lessons, and continue their training. For Taekwon-Do organisations and Sport New Zealand, Kiwisport has proven to be an effective and sustainable way to introduce martial arts into school sport.