For Nick, the trip represented far more than simply attending a course. Like many senior volunteers within karate, the journey was entirely self-funded — including flights, accommodation, course fees and general travel expenses — reflecting the level of personal commitment often required behind the scenes to help maintain and improve standards within the wider karate community.
Prior to travelling to Italy, Nick had already attained his Grade C Kata and Grade C Kumite referee qualifications during earlier SKIEF referee accreditation in Denmark, continuing a steady pathway of international referee development. Read more here.
As part of the event, Nick also officiated during the international competition as a Fukushin (corner judge), a role requiring Grade C accreditation in the relevant discipline. Progression to Shushin (centre referee) level requires Grade B qualification, representing a significant step forward in officiating responsibility and technical understanding.
Reflecting on the achievement, Kyōtō Chief Instructor Steve Ashby commented before the event:
“It is people like Nick who put in the time and effort, at their own expense, to make things better for all of us.”
Nick’s willingness to continue studying, travelling and placing himself in demanding examination environments reflects the spirit of continual improvement that sits at the heart of traditional karate practice.
Everyone at Kyōtō congratulates Nick on attaining his SKIEF Grade B Kata Referee qualification and wishes him continued success in his ongoing referee development journey.
