National Sports Convention for the Deaf in Auckland 1984

1984
  • Deaf Sports
  • TV/Media
Jane Dent reports on the National Sports Convention for the Deaf held in Auckland during Labour Weekend in 1984. The footage screened on the 6:30pm news on Saturday 20 October 1984.
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Jane Dent reports on the National Sports Convention for the Deaf held in Auckland during Labour Weekend in 1984. The minute-long footage screened on the 6:30pm news on Saturday 20 October 1984. There is footage of Deaf athletes competing in the sprint, long jump and shotput at the North Shore stadium. The Manawatu Deaf community gets into the spirit of the National Convention games with a massive GO GO MANAWATU sign. Norman Norris explains how Deaf people utilise their excellent visual skills to react more quickly to things around them, and how this is a benefit in sports.

The ‘Most Outstanding Sportsperson of the Games’ award (Colin Kay Cup) went to T.Parnell (Hawkes Bay). Auckland were the winners of the Aotearoa Turi shield.

NZSL story – Taonga source: John Mansell

Dressed to Represent at the NZ Deaf Sports Convention

John recalls how athletes travelling to Deaf Sports Conventions, such as the one in Christchurch in 1968, were required to dress formally, including wearing ties. Both athletes and supporters wore rosettes to show their club. These were removed during games but worn again afterward. On the final evening, swapping rosettes was a tradition. John still has a few at home.
NZSL story – Taonga source: Tony Walton

Where NZSL Thrives: The Power of Deaf Sport Gatherings

Tony Walton reflects on the importance of the NZ Deaf Games, once called the Sports Convention, held every Labour Weekend. It was more than just sport. It brought Deaf people together to socialise and sign in NZSL. Local delegates organised the event, while NZDSA awarded the Player of the Year and Aotearoa Turi Shield. A proposal to make the Games biennial was first rejected but later accepted. Looking back, Tony wishes it had stayed annual.
NZSL story – Taonga source: Shona McGhie

Wearing Two Hats: Shona on Leading NZ Deaf Sports

Shona McGhie shares her experience in the 1980s and 90s juggling two roles. She was both Secretary of the NZ Deaf Sports Association and Administrator of the NZ Deaf Games. As Administrator, she ensured the host city met all requirements to run the Sports Convention smoothly. She organised meetings, AGMs, and worked closely with delegates on teams, rules, and bylaws. Shona held the role for three years, helping keep Deaf sport in New Zealand running strong.
Taonga source:
Television New Zealand Archive
Reference number:
SignDNA – Deaf National Archive New Zealand, TVNZ05-01-SPO84
Note:
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