TMA squad returns from the national championships

A full write-up of how our juniors, teens and adult competitors got on across two days of competition, with results, photos and a word from the coaching team.

Two days of competition, an early start and a lot of nerves — and the squad came home with plenty to be proud of. Here is how the weekend went.

How the weekend ran

Weigh-ins opened early on the Saturday, with the junior divisions running first and the adult categories following through the afternoon. Every TMA competitor made weight and every one of them stepped on the mat.

For several of our members this was a first national event. Whatever the result, walking out in front of a full hall and holding your composure is the hard part — and they all did it.

What the coaches said

The medals are great, but what stood out was how the younger ones supported each other between rounds. That is the club doing its job.

What comes next

Squad training resumes on its usual evening, and selection for the next event opens shortly. If you are thinking about competing:

• speak to your instructor after class about which division suits you;
• come along to a squad session and see what the training involves;
• no one is put forward for an event before they are ready.

Thanks to every parent who drove, queued and cheered across the two days — the club could not do these weekends without you.