10/12/2011: State Team Presentation Dinner
Over 80 Team members and family members, along with a few guests, attended the 2011 State Team Dinner in the function room of the Halfway Hotel. This year more of the ladies dressed up for the occcassion, making it a special night. Even some of the guys made the extra effort, certainly a change from the all white outfits usually worn.
As per previously, photos and video from tournaments throughout the year played on the big screen throughout the night, bringing back memories of the year. It was a most successful season, with 10 National Championships won at either GKR or NAS National Tournaments, along with many minor places. However, the most pleasing aspect was that around 75% of team members competing at these tournaments came home with a medal for either individual and/or team events. New training techniques had been introduced throughout the year and certainly made a difference, both in tournament and general training.
The highlight of the evening was the annual awards. First up, there was a presentation made to Holco Meats, accepted by Drew Andrew, who have supplied the meat for the BBQs during the year. Next was a special award to Fred Harford, the Flexsall Award, for all his Sports Trainer work during the year. There was a change in focus for the main awards, going away from the "results" based basis of the past. The new "Coach's Award" was given to team members under the following basis:
The South Australian State Team Coach’s Award
is earned by Karate-ka
who have shown outstanding dedication and commitment,
not only in Tournament participation, but in all facets of training.
Congratulations to the 2011 recipicants: Ian Rollings, Nik McDonald, Steve Tyler, Mary Bambacus, Kathryn Brink and Zoe Tyler.
Daniel Tregenza then presented appreciation awards and gifts to State Team Coach, Sensei Jeremy Thompson and Assistant Coach Sensei Shane Bennett. Ray Spiteri then spoke on behalf of parents, extending their thanks for the time and committment oput in by the Coaches. It was a highly successful evening which showed once again how well the "Team" aspect is embraced by all members, Congratulation to everyone on a great year in 2011, going from strength to strength. Look forward to seeing you all there again, with some exciting new plans already in place for 2012, which will take the team to new heights.
