2015 saw record numbers of Oceania coaches and referees undertake OTU coach and referee accreditation courses.
The 2015 Australian Open saw record numbers of countries and athletes participating in this important G2 event. 2015 also saw the first Oceania Club championships, providing regional clubs with the opportunity to compete at the international level. Papua New Guinea hosted the Pacific Games in 2015, one of the most successful games in history. Again, record numbers of athletes and countries entered.
The OTU has been led since 2005 by Mr. Phil Coles.
Phil retired from the presidency in 2015 and John Kotsifas took over, having, since 2005, been secretary general. Phil remains honorary president. The OTU extends their eternal gratitude to him.
No Oceania athletes qualified for Rio 2016 via the Grand Prix, but eight athletes will, via the Oceania regional qualification event.
In 2016 the following events are scheduled:
February 27 – Oceania Olympic qualification event in Papua New Guinea / June 18-19 (TBC) -The Oceania WTF Presidents Cup. The OTU is currently finalizing the host nation. / July 15-17 – Australian Open (G2) in Canberra, Australia. / October 1-2 – 7th Oceania hampionships in Fiji. / TBC – 2nd Oceania Open Club Championships. Date and host country to be confirmed.
In 2016 the OTU education programs for coaches, referees, judges and officials will expand.
The OTU will negotiate for poomsae and para- taekwondo’s inclusion in the 2019 Pacific Games.
Discussions will be held with the WTF ensure more Oceania participation in Tokyo 2020.
The 2016 Oceania championships will see record numbers . Colored belts will also participate for the first time.
The OTU will finalize with the WTF an Oceania IR course and refresher in October.
John Kotsifas
President, Oceania Taekwondo Union
