What is a Technical Drill?

Technical Drill routines are a performance of the traditional military-like style of marching of compulsory drills and set march plans.  A technical drill team comprises 7-10 marchers and performs a set Review and Inspection routine and a set March Plan routine comprising different types of drills and numbers of movements depending on the age grade performing. Technical Drill is precision in timing and spacing in movements, and the execution and correctness of the drills. 

Marching is competitive - how is the technical drill judged?

Judging is an awarding system and the Technical Drill is judged from six judging positions.  Technical Judge A judges at the Review and Inspection and judges position in rank and files, Technical Judge B judges the upper body, hand grips arm-swings, Technical C Judge judges footwork, Technical D Judge judges spacing and covering in formations and the Compliance Judge judges the leading marcher at each movement has any part of the correct foot on the disc. Technical Judge E, a new position, judges all aspects in between movements during the march plan .  The Technical A Judge stands to judge before stepping amongst the marchers for a close inspection and to take caliper measurements.  Technical B,C,D and E Judges are seated at the rear of the field and judge during the set march plan routine.  The Compliance Judge is a standing position on an elevated platform.  

What is a Display March?

The Display phase is designed for teams to perform with 7-14 marchers.  It is a routine of rhythmic movements to enhance the performance and is performed to the teams own choice of music. The Display should project the overall degree of excellence of the ‘picture' being presented, combined with the ‘look’ of the brilliance and versatility of the Team.  Artistic and gimmicky type movements are permissible provided that, dignity and modesty is maintained and marchers are not put at risk. A Display should have visual value and spectator appeal. Movements must correlate to the music and should demonstrate variety and versatility. Accessories, such as hoops, ribbons, flags, rifles and the like may be used, but the accessory must enhance the overall presentation.  For the Display, Teams may add to, change or remove items from their uniform, for example change gloves and skirts to a different colour, ensuring any change is befitting the dignity of the sport.

This sounds fun, how is it judged?

The Display March is judged from two judging positions, one is seated and another elevated on the front boundary where they are able to view the display for entertainment value with the same overall view as seen by the public.

I am interested in joining a team, who do I contact?

The best person to speak to is our secretary Glenys, who can direct you to the most appropriate coach. Or you can take a look at our teams page and contact directly.

I am interested in starting a team, how do I do this?

To coach a team, the first thing to do is contact our secretary who will put you in touch with our coaching coordinator. From there they will guide you on the Rules of Participation, how to gain your "Coaching Level 1" certificate, and other requirements such as police vetting and permission to coach and fundraise.

You will also need personel such as a Treasurer, Manager and a Chaperone (they look after the uniforms and ensure the safety of the team during the competitions and travel away). It is best to have somone you already know and trust, but we can also help you appoint someone. 

Of course you will need a team. You may already have some marchers, we can also help you recruit with the support of the promotions sub comittee.

I would really like to judge, how can I sign up?

Judging is a great way to give to the sport without the time commitment of practices. It requires knowledge of the rules, a high level of professionalism and good communication skills. Our District Chief Judge is the right person to contact, they can support you with training toward your journey of being a qualified judge - this involves a manual, use of videos, meetings and shadowing at contests.

Is there anything else that I can do to get involved?

Absolutley!!

We are always looking for volunteers to support the association. This can be from adding up the scores on judges sheets, to marshalling the teams onto the field, to laying out the field before contests start, to looking after the trophies. There is always something to do and we are grateful for any time people can give. The best person to talk to is our secretary.

What's the time committment expected?

Well that really depends on how you decide to participate. Marching is a competitive sport, and as teams work towards the big contests more time is required to practice the routines. That is up to the coach but it's important you are aware of this. The two big contests for Otago are South Island Champs in December, and Nationals in March. 

Judging requires a level of availability and committment. Some areas can organise contests around judges availability but this isn't always possible. There are usually meetings with the local panel, the judges around the country who share positions, and meetings with coaches. There are also yearly workshops. These meetings are opportunities to discuss all aspects and facets about the sport with equally enthusiastic people, so can be a great way to socailise as well as get down to business!!

Other voluntary positions may mean one meeting a month, attendance at local contests, and paperwork.