Niamh Buffini – 5th Dan
Grade: 5th Dan Kukkiwon
Role: Strength & Conditioning Coach / Player
Commenced Taekwondo: 1999
Taekwondo Interests: Biomechanical movement and understanding demands of the sport.
Bio: Niamh commenced training firstly at ITF Style Taekwondo, until an eventual switch to WTF & the Olympic Opportunities available. Niamh was a successful ITF fighter for many years, then turning to WTF around green belt level, was selected on the Irish National Team to attend the Junior World Championships. Niamh currently holds a 5th Dan Kukkiwon Blackbelt. At the time of her 4th Dan promotion Niamh became Irelands 1st Female Taekwondo Master, and youngest Taekwondo Master. Niamh is now Irelands only female 5th Dan, and the youngest 5th Dan in the country.
Niamh has also represented Club & Country at European Poomsae Championships. World Poomsae Championships, Universiade 2009 Belgrade, Universiade 2011 Shenzhen & World University Taekwondo Championships.
Niamh is a WTF Global Coach Licence Holder and ETU Coaches Licence Holder.
Niamh recieved a citation from Kukkiwon [Highest Taekwondo Authority] for her contribution to taekwondo whilst attending a Kukkiwon Seminar.
In a coaching capacity, niamh has attended European Chamionships & World Championships and has extensive experience at Elite level right down to grass roots development.
Career Highlights: Representing Ireland at the Junior Worlds Championships Kyorugi, Flag Bearer of the Irish Delegation at the 2011 Universiade in Shenzhen, Promotion to 5th Dan under Grandmaster Ky-Tu Dang
Other Sporting Interests: Intern at the National Athlete Development Agency, Coach at Bray Emmett’s GAA Club, Running, Boxing.
