22nd November, 2023.
Tierney's Taekwondo Academy in Appin had a stellar performance at the Australian National Taekwondo Championships in Perth. The team clinched multiple medals, with Hayley Nonenmacher (13) and Damien Cakovski (38) crowned national champions in the Kyorugi (sparring) category. Acid Orfali (12), Carly Orfali (35), and Ava Cakovska (11) came in second in their divisions, while Heath Dawson (11) placed third and Christian White (14) fifth, both in Kyorugi. The event held more than athletic accomplishments. Amy Tierney, the academy's owner, was one of three finalists for Coach of the Year among 1,000 nominees. "For a little club, it's a pretty good feat," Ms. Tierney remarked. Her team also received a nomination for best studio, marking the second time for the academy. The championships had a poignant undertone as they were dedicated to Joshua Pike, an academy member who recently passed away. "The whole weekend was a success," Ms. Tierney said. "They gave it everything they had." The team looks forward to another competition in December and trials for the Taekwondo World Championships next year.