I.T.F. Netherlands

From the Dutch Taekwon-Do Association to I.T.F. Netherlands

The organization's history in the Netherlands began in 1966 with the founding of the Dutch Taekwon-Do Association. In 1987, the I.T.F. interest group was established, which, according to the official organizational history, was recognized by the world federation as an organization in the Netherlands.

On January 17, 1992, I.T.F. Netherlands was established as a fully-fledged organization and National Governing Body for ITF Taekwon-Do in the Netherlands. James Tjin-A-Ton and Kiet Tjon-A-Pauw are named as founders on the official website.

In 2012, the boards of the Dutch Taekwon-Do Association and I.T.F. Netherlands decided to work together again. The Dutch Taekwon-Do Association was absorbed into I.T.F. Netherlands, an important step in the further development of the sport in the Netherlands.

Courses, competitions and support

I.T.F. Netherlands organizes and supports courses for teachers, instructors and sports leaders. The offerings include courses for assistant, assisting and independent ITF Taekwon-Do sports leaders, as well as referee courses and international instructor and jury training.

For competitive sport, the federation organizes national events, Master Series, Dutch Championships and support for a national team competing in European and worldwide ITF tournaments. Committees, coaches, referees and volunteers work together to contribute to the quality of these activities.

The federation also implements policies promoting a safe sporting climate and fair play. The official website lists an anti-doping regulation from ITF Netherlands.

Affiliated schools and athletes

Schools, associations, and clubs can request information and have an introductory conversation with representatives of I.T.F. Netherlands. After affiliating, they gain access to the federation's structure, membership administration, committees, training courses, and competition activities.

The official benefits of affiliation include, among other things, voting rights for schools during the General Members' Meeting, participation in committees, access to national and international training courses, support with events, and a network of ITF instructors and clubs.

Sport, character and participation

I.T.F. Netherlands views Taekwon-Do as a sport, martial art, way of life and tool for social development. The federation wants people of all ages and skill levels to be able to train responsibly.

For children, the emphasis is on motor development, perseverance, self-control, teamwork and self-confidence. Youth programs, Kids Development and sports for everyone reflect this broad view of Taekwon-Do.

Through training programs, coach development and a focus on a safe sporting environment, I.T.F. Netherlands is working toward sustainable quality among its affiliated schools and a sporting environment where enjoyment and development go hand in hand.