LATEST NEWS

Latest updates from across the academy

2022 IN NUMBERS
By Admin
27 December 2022 3:10 pm
Some of the key numbers for the year, as we celebrate a successful 2022.
Some of the key numbers for the year, as we celebrate a successful 2022.

As 2022 draws to a close, we look back at what a tremendous year it’s been for everyone involved with the Academy.

This year, our members have had the opportunity to train in 456 hours of coached karate sessions across our Nailsea, Backwell, Long Ashton and Westbury-on-Trym dojos, with a handful of students training at all four venues! Our ranks have swollen to 196 licenced JKS England members, with more booked in to start in January.

You’ve strained every sinew to get better and your efforts have been rewarded. Collectively you’ve passed more belts in 2022 than any other year in our history, with 191 passes in total – including five dan grade passes. Sensei Steven Connell became only our second member ever to reach the rank of Yondan (4th Dan), after he was rewarded for his efforts in October. We’ve also had three members picked for the JKS England national squad. More than we’ve ever had selected for our federation’s squad before.

With COVID restrictions finally lifting, we were delighted to run three special seminars with senior JKS England instructors. Thank you to Senseis Steve Carless, Nick Heald and Matt Price for their expert tuition and to the incredible support from our members and guests. A massive 222 training spots were taken up across the three days.

This year has seen us return to karate tournaments for the first time since 2019. So for you all to pick up 19 medals was phenomenal! The Academy is now home to three JKS England National Champions, with golds across, kata, kumite and kickmaster. We’ve also picked up our first ever international medal, with a bronze at the Commonwealth Club Championships in September for Tim Griffiths. Tim also became the club’s first ever BKF British Champion in the +35 Male Kata event.

At every single training session we see Academy members reaching their own goals and overcoming their own hurdles. It’s been a delight to see everyone make so much progress and we look forward to supporting you towards your own individual goals as we step into 2023.

Thank you for your continued hard work and support.