#11: Successful Training Camp Sees Local Clubs Unite And Train With U.K. Coach Steven Turner

Valuable lessons were learned by the end of an MTA training camp that had U.K. coach Steven Turner deliver six training sessions in four days.

Turner, best known for his work with Aaron Cook (and other renowned athletes) led the camp, which took place at the Iron Taekwondo League gym. In attendance were all three local clubs and eight young British athletes. And they were more than happy to mix it up with the Maltese.

In camp, Turner focused on many technical elements of the modern game which included the physical execution of basic skills (stance, footwork, movement, basic kicking) with a ‘basics done well’ approach.

The scope? To create a solid foundation from which complex skills can be built.

Photo credit: Aeryn Louise

Come Friday, athletes engaged in ‘initial actions with the front leg’ and explored ‘transitioning into second actions’.

After a well-needed social event, athletes then returned and addressed their ‘control of distance’, the ‘ownership of space’, and ‘clashing’ in bi-daily sessions that lasted over two hours each.

Photo credit: Aeryn Louise

Each session came with a series of physical challenges, some of which tested the fighting spirit and will of the athletes.

Every session had a period full-sparring. A chance to put athletes’ newfound skills into practice.

Photo credit: Aeryn Louise

MTA President Anna Vassallo shared a few words about the camp.

“Steven’s breakdown of the ‘why’ behind athletes’ playing style couldn’t have been clearer,” she said. “Athletes as young as seven were able to follow, understand, and later, put theory into practice.”

“I was also struck by the manner and attitudes of the athletes. Nothing short of professional. They didn’t just work well together. They pushed each other, supported each other and laughed together.”

“This is what sport is about. And no sport does it better than Taekwondo.”

Photo credit: Aeryn Louise

The camp recorded the highest attendance of all MTA camps, welcoming athletes as young as seven and as old as thirty-three years. Friends and family were also part of the contingent. And together they rallied in support of the athletes.

Malta has enjoyed a period of relative success as far as foreign competition goes. It is the will of the MTA to continue down this path.

On behalf of all Maltese members, the Association thanks Steven Turner for his knowledge, experience, and his time. It also extends its thanks to the British athletes who attended the camp. All of them were able to contribute and share their own experiences.