The GTF-Talk Archive.

From: Melissa Whalen <melw@more.net>

Date: Thu, 15 Aug 1996 08:08:30 -0500 (CDT)

Subject: Re:

 
 
 >        On the 25th August, I am entering in a NAS Tournament. That is a
 >National All-Styles Tournament. It is a non-contact tournament, that runs
 >throughout Australia, at most capital cities. I tend to do well in the kata
 >divisions, but I am not too good at the point sparring. I try, but I tend
 >to get frustrated too quickly, when decisions that I think are wrong, are
 >made against me. I won't go into it, but it is a problem I find that I
 >have. Does anyone else get the same way?
 
 I understand your frustration with point sparring.  I had many of the same
 attitude difficulties until someone suggested (can't remember who, probably
 Master Tompkins or Mr. Terry) thinking of point sparring as a show, put on a
 good show for the judges and the auidence.  
 
 In other words, be rather flashy with techniques (high double or triple
 kicks, spins, etc.), kiap everytime you think you make a point or even come
 close and work on how to move your opponent around so that the most judges
 see any contact.  
 
 I think the most important of all is to relax in the ring and have fun.  All
 your concentration and heavy think work should have been done in training
 and competition fighting should flow naturally.  Have you ever noticed the
 difference between watching or judging a fighter that is enjoying the match
 verses one who is out to *win* at all costs?  Which is easier for you to judge?
 
 Now, the real test is if I can practice what I preach in Scotland.  I know,
 we will not be doing point sparring there (thank goodness) but it sure is
 easier to give an opinion than to demonstrate one.
 
 Have a good day, all
 Melissa
 
 Melissa Whalen (melw@more.net)
 3rd Dan - Global Taekwon-Do Federation
 http://www.more.net/~melw/gtf
 
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 Blessed are the flexible for they shall not get bent out of shape.
 Les Pourciau
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