KNZ organises Demonstration and Introductory Training

An approach from Monique Smith, sports co-ordinator at Kaikoura High School, to provide a demonstration of the game prompted KNZ Chairman, Rob Smith to create a day of it. Two teams from the Canterbury Club departed Christchurch on a rain threatening Sunday morning and travelled the 2-ish hours north to Kaikoura. The day cleared into a glorious spring day – a clear blue sky, wispy clouds and the last few dollops of snow perched on the coastal peaks.

Getting used to the korf height - Long Shot training in progress.

With such a great vista and the sun shining, the outdoor tapes were pulled from the vehicles and the posts dragged outside. An indoor sized court was set up on the lush playing fields of Kaikoura High School, and promptly a couple of demonstration games were played.

Monique had arranged a number of interested participants to view the games, and learn what the sport had to offer. To assist in understanding what was happening, Rob explained the game as it progressed, pointing out both the fundamental skills, and the strategy being applied.

Substitutions

After a discussion session at the break, the teams started using revolving substitutes. Slowly subbing those watching into the game, permitted the new players to try out some skills and become used to moving as a part of the team, using good game play. At the end of the game, everyone watching had spent some time on the pitch and had been 'buddied' with an experienced player to show them the ropes.

Rob Smith, KNZ Chairman, demonstrating Penalty Shots to a group of Kaikoura newcomers

Rob and Ewout van Bruchem continued with the discussion and describing strategy while the team members took a well-earned water break. The hot sun was taking its toll!

Basic Training

While playing games gives the feel to the game, not knowing the best ways to shoot or attack showed in frustration for the newcomers. Everyone was grouped for some basic training. With a background of Netball or Basketball, many 'old habits' needed to be developed so that they could be applied to Korfball.

Rob worked the newcomers through the best method to execute penalty shots, running in shots, long shots, and the V shot. Once they had mastered these fundamental Korfball plays, it was time to eat.

On the way to get the rebound. The teams closing in on the free ball

Replay

A wonderful lunch, including a barbeque provided by the Kaikoura Hosts, was followed by a longish game made up of a significant number of the Kaikoura newcomers. With the advantage of the, admittedly limited, training these new players blended into the game better and started to attack, shoot and defend with reason.

Monique passed a comment about the change in their game play, "They are playing in a more reserved way now – there's not as much rushing around going on now".

A good sign, obviously even the rudimentary skills were enough to get the brain thinking.

Too Short

Before everyone knew it, the day had come to a close. With a return trip still to complete, the Christchurch contingent returned to their vehicles to start travelling. Satisfied that they had successfully shown off the sport, there was already talk as to when to return to introduce another group to the sport. Plans to have a tournament day with these people were also floated.

Comments from the new players proved that they certainly enjoyed the experience of Korfball. Many were talking about introducing friends and partners to the game, with the plan to set up a small tournament.

Gary Boot and Ewout van Bruchem competing for the high ball. Who says height doesn't help!

For anyone wanting to find out more about Korfball in Kaikoura, send a quick email message to and someone will get back to you as soon as possible. If you need an urgent response, make sure you give us a telephone number so we can get back to you.