National Squad Weekend: Perth, 
24-26th October 2025
The Importance of Kata Repetition:
The repetition of kata is fundamental in your Karate training because it develops both the body and the mind.
Through consistent training - muscle memory is formed, allowing movements to become instinctive and precise even under pressure. Repetition also promotes the refinement of technique, ensuring that each motion is executed with efficiency and accuracy.
Physically, kata strengthens the body through conditioning, improves body mechanics, and enhances symmetry and coordination, leading to balanced and fluid movement.
🏯 Kyoto Representation at National Squad Training
Kyoto Shotokan Karate Dojo was represented at the SKIF-GB National Squad Training in Perth, with invited squad members travelling from our Bristol (BS11) classes to take part in this high-level development weekend.
Instructor Steve Ashby accompanied Kyoto squad members who had been invited to attend:
- Sharon Joseph
- Phoenix Shelper
- Matthew Sun - this training also marked the first national squad course for Matthew following his recent selection.
Notably, the Kyoto representatives included younger athletes, with squad members aged 14, 16, and 18 taking part in the national squad training—reflecting the structured pathway within SKIF-GB for juniors progressing into higher-level competition - this highlights the opportunities available for committed younger students to develop within the SKIF-GB structure and gain experience at national level.
Their selection reflects the continued development of Kyoto students within the SKIF-GB squad structure and the opportunities available for committed students to progress to national level.
🥋 Training & Development
Across the weekend, students trained under senior SKIF-GB instructors including:
- Pasqualino Mura (7th Dan) – National Coach
- Kevin Clark (7th Dan) – National Kata Coach
- Steve Lamb – Perth Instructor
- Susumu Asano – Senior Instructor
The training covered both kata and kumite across junior and adult groups, with sessions led by different instructors to provide a broad range of technical input. The weekend concluded with a squad fitness session led by Sensei Pasqualino Mura.
🌍 Beyond the Dojo
Alongside the training, the weekend also provided an opportunity for squad members to build friendships and team spirit, with a group meal and activities for the juniors including Laser Quest.
🧠 Pathway to National Level
Participation in events such as this reflects the structured pathway within SKIF-GB, where students can progress from regular dojo training through to regional and national squad development.
At Kyoto, we are proud to support this pathway, with students training alongside others from across the country as they continue to develop their karate.