19/06/2026
Shotokan Connect is pleased to host the upcoming Performance and Referees & Judges Course, bringing together both Competitors and Officials in a shared development environment.
Performance and Competition coaching sessions, providing valuable pre-competition preparation ahead of the Shōtōkan Connect Championship in October.
Running alongside, is the Referees & Judges Continuous Development Course, which will cover the structure and operation of a Karate tournament, including the roles of Referees, Judges, Trainee Officials, Stewards, Recorders, Announcers, Timekeepers, and Coaches.
Participation is encouraged for all members, supporting better understanding, between competitors and officials, and promoting consistent standards across the organisation. This course also offers a clear pathway into officiating and tournament management, strengthening the overall quality and professionalism of Shotokan Connect events.
Sunday 5th July, Sports and Health Complex, University of Brighton, 9.30-3.30pm. Book here: https://s.scka.co.uk/fnmHph
16/06/2026
Well done to everyone from Red Lion SKC ( ) and Senshi Karate Shotokan Connect clubs that attended the FSK UK Cup competition ( ) at the weekend. We came away with some very impressive results and formed some good relationships along the way.
See our blog post for details:
https://www.redlionskc.co.uk/news-1/red-lion-skc-attends-fsk-uk-cup-competition-14th-june-2026/
15/06/2026
Join us for our All grades course at Ponteland Leisure centre, hosted by Sensei John Parnell (7th Dan) and Sensei Ian Harman (6th Dan)
Sensei John Parnell has trained in Shotokan karate since the 1980s, studying throughout the UK and internationally under many of the art’s most respected instructors. Renowned for his technical expertise and analytical teaching style, he combines traditional principles with precision and clarity, particularly in his highly regarded kata instruction. He continues to inspire students at Red Lion Shotokan in Eastbourne through his dedication to authentic karate and lifelong learning.
Sensei Ian Harman is the Chief Instructor of Kyoshin Karate in South Wales. Drawing on his background as a teacher, he is known for delivering detailed and insightful explanations of karate techniques. A former member of both the English and Great Britain karate squads, Ian brings a wealth of competitive and instructional experience to his teaching.
The training will be followed by a senior dan grading. Best of luck to everyone currently preparing to grade
Register here: https://s.scka.co.uk/HC4xf6
08/06/2026
Well done to Chris Jenner and Edward Donald who both passed their 1st Dan Grading on Saturday.
Red Lion Students pass 1st Dan Black Belt Grading
Congratulations for Chris Jenner and Edward Donald who passed their 1st Dan Grading at the Shotokan Connect All grades course this weekend (Saturday 6th June 2026), evaluated by Sensei Ian Harman (6th Dan), Sensei Val Dale (6th Dan) and Sensei Sam Birch (6th Dan).