Mike Sensei at the World Championships

Last month saw Mike Sensei Travel up to the World Championships with Paul Sensei from Selby, not to take part, but as one of the small but growing group of JKS Qualified England Referees.

This is one of the reasons that we had invited Geoff Dixon Sensei to visit (as well as to develop the other club members, and to train under him) and we have been having ‘mat nights’ once a month, and Mike Sensei said that this preparation was invaluable

JKS England Team, Coaches and Officials, 2016 JKS World Championships

Before the competition started they took the opportunity to attend the pre competition seminar, and not only trained under the top instructors in the JKS, but also to train with some very talented karate-ka from around the world (in Mike Sensei’s case South Africa!).

Mike and Paul Sensei also took the opportunity to take refereeing qualifications before the competitions started. Congratulations to Mike Sensei on attaining his ‘D’ licence and Paul Sensei for attaining his ‘C’ licence.

There followed two days of incredible karate, with Mike Sensei literally having the best seat in the house! That is not to say that it was not hard work – anyone who has refereed will tell you that it takes constant and intense concentration to make sure that you do not miss anything.

Following the close of the competition there was the opportunity to unwind with friends old and new, before the drive home.

If you are interested in officiating at competitions please contact Geoff Dixon Sensei, JKS England Chief Referee at jksreferees@btinternet.com

visit www.haxbykarate.co.uk to find out more about our Club. For more information email info@haxbykarate.co.uk