Today evening was concluded with the coaching and refereeing meetings as part of the EJU Get Together function in Venray, the Netherlands. Almost 40 coaches and 20 referees gathered to make the most ahead of the event.
As part of the coaching seminar, all vital elements of the rule book have been addressed. Coaches were able to ask questions and address their views. The Head of Organisation and Adaptive Judo Coach, Rudi VERHAGEN; Sport Director of the Virtus and Leader of Adaptive Judo of the British Judo Association, Kerry TANSEY and Adaptive Judo Coach Kata, Tycho VAN DER WERFF all ensured that coaches are facilitated ahead of the event tomorrow. Amongst many topics, safety, equality, and coaching rules were also deliberated.
Dutch referee, Jenny KOSTER is one of the lead referees for the weekend. She, herself have been involved with adaptive judo for more than 30 years. Koster also ran part the refereeing deliberations. Having the tournament on home soil is a reward much appreciated by her.
I started refereeing when I was 16 and at the beginning, I was hesitant on refereeing in adaptive judo but it only took one session and I was hooked. We worked so hard for having this event showcased in the Netherlands, I am so happy about it. Finally, these boys and girls are not shunted in the corner but out here accepted, it is fantastic. For the weekend, it is important that we ensure each level has accurate refereeing but more importantly, I want everyone to accept them and referee by heart.
Author: Szandra Szogedi