Yesterday, Sunday 3rd July 2022, Sensei Chris and I were honoured to receive our 5th Dan grades from Terry Pottage Sensei, 9th Dan, a World respected Shukokai Karate practitioner, referee and friend.
We have both practiced Karate for many years, dad 22 and myself 27. Over these years we have had highs and lows, but the highs have definitely outweighed the lows. Moving to form our own Association in 2018 was the best thing we ever did and we have always worked towards a better future for our students, and believe we have had great success. We thank all of our students who have continued to put their faith in us as teachers; we are grateful for your loyalty and support.
From the early years in the dojo, (not knowing what the future holds), running hills each week in the lead up to World Championships, training tirelessly for the next goals, to having the responsibility for students who we train to represent themselves and us, be it in competition, in class, at school or in every day life where they show they have the correct Discipline Respect Ethos, Ambition and Motivation.
This past weekend our students won gold, yes gold, in the English National Championships, something we had dreamt about for them, but it became a reality, twice, which we thank them whole heartly for, their trust in us and motivation to win for SKA England was felt, and our hearts were warm.
It is a great privilege and responsibility to have received this grade and we will, as Sensei Terry said, ‘continue to fly the flag for Shukokai in England’. We’re very grateful, thank you Sensei.
Oss
Katie and Chris Simpson