Welcome to Shotokan Connect
We are a group of dedicated practitioners of Shotokan Karate, many with senior grades and decades of experience of training, competing and teaching karate. We are an inclusive organisation that will not only support our karate development, but by working with and never against other associations and karateka, facilitate the sharing of knowledge, skills and experience for the benefit of others. We are building a safe, exciting and progressive place to train and compete, develop life skills, and grow as a group and as individuals. We will train, learn and develop together with our members and with the wider karate community.
Shotokan Connect
The kanji in the Shotokan Connect logo says ‘rei’ - a word you will associate with bowing.
But let’s dive in further. The symbol on the left depicts an alter overflowing with offerings. The symbol on the right is somebody kneeling - this is more obvious in the original and more complex kanji 禮.
Essentially, it is showing respect, gratitude and etiquette, fundamental principles to our association and, of course, the broader Shotokan community. You can find out more about our values here: shotokanconnect.com/about-us/mission-values/
#shotokan #karate #rei #respect
1 week ago | [YT] | 2
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Shotokan Connect
A great turnout and brilliant results from Shotokan Connect members for "The Legend" Shotokan Shobu Ippon annual competition in Guildford run by SKDUN!
Children's Individual Kata U11 - 1st Bella Baker (Kata : Enpi)
Boys Kumite 12-13yrs - Black and Brown belts Und. 5ft - 2nd Taylor Hurst
Boys Kumite 12-13yrs - Black and Brown belts 5ft - 5'5'ft - 1st Leo Baker
Individual 16 to 20 yrs - Over 2nd Dan Kata - 1st Hannah Parnell (Kata : Gojushiho Dai)
Honourable mentions to Hugo Baker and Sensei Blyth Baker for getting on the mat and delivering outstanding performances. The team was ably supported by Senseis David Hurst and John Parnell.
#karate #karatecompetition
1 week ago | [YT] | 2
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Shotokan Connect
Congratulations to Sam Hayden of Kyoshin Shotokan Karate Club on passing her Shodan on Saturday. Osu #grading #shodan #blackbelt
1 week ago | [YT] | 3
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Shotokan Connect
Thank you to everybody who came to our All Grades Course on Saturday at the University of Brighton. Thank you Senseis Sam Birch and Frank Jennings for enjoyable and insightful sessions.
#shotokanconnect #shotokan #karate
2 weeks ago | [YT] | 1
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Shotokan Connect
English Karate Federation have extended an invite to all Shotokan Connect members to attend the EKF Development Day on Sunday 22nd March 2026.
A full day designed to help athletes develop their skills and confidence in competition environments.
Open Competition Kata & Kumite Training
A fantastic opportunity for athletes to develop their competition kata and kumite skills with experienced coaches who have helped produce some of the top athletes in England.
⏱ Training Times
🥋 Kata: 11:00am – 1:00pm
🥊 Kumite: 1:30pm – 3:30pm
💷 Cost
• £15 for one session
• £20 for both sessions
www.englishkaratefederation.com/
2 weeks ago | [YT] | 1
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Shotokan Connect
Pictured are some of the Shotokan Connect members who attended the special karate seminar held in honour of Sensei Robert Rhodes’ 80th birthday. He was joined by guest instructors Senseis Nick Heald and Matt Price at the Abbey School, Faversham, Kent. Thank you for a brilliant day and a very happy birthday.
2 weeks ago | [YT] | 1
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Shotokan Connect
Have you booked your place at the Shotokan Connect All Grades Course and Senior Dan Grading on Saturday 21st March?
Train with Sensei Sam Birch and Sensei Frank Jennings, covering aspects of Kata, Bunkai and Bo.
Book your place now: shotokanconnect.wildapricot.org/event-6200441
3 weeks ago | [YT] | 3
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Shotokan Connect
Shotokan Connect referees and judges assisted at the FSK UK Karate Cup in London on the 8th March. Thank you for a brilliant day. #karate #shotokankarate #shotokanconnect
3 weeks ago | [YT] | 1
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Shotokan Connect
Train with Sensei Sam Birch (6th Dan) and Sensei Frank Jennings (4th Dan) at our All Grades course at the University of Brighton on March 21st, focussing on kata, bunkai and bo.
Sensei Sam Birch teaches at Red Lion Karate Club in Eastbourne and has a fearsome reputation in both kumite and kata competitions at regional and national level.
Sensei Frank Jennings is the founder of Senshi Karate club in Greenwich and he is also one of the qualified judges you might see at our National Championships.
Sessions are split evenly, giving everyone the opportunity to train with both instructors and cover all elements, whether you attend one session or both.
Book your place shotokanconnect.wildapricot.org/event-6200441
4 weeks ago (edited) | [YT] | 0
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Shotokan Connect
Upcoming Event Announcement
All Grades Course and Senior Dan Grading.
Saturday 21st March, 10am-5pm.
Sport And Health Complex, University of Brighton, Falmer, BN1 9PH.
Train with two outstanding instructors in this special event led by Sensei Sam Birch and Sensei Frank Jennings, focusing on kata, bunkai, and bo.
Sessions are split evenly, giving everyone the opportunity to train with both instructors, whether you attend one session or both.
Bo staffs will be provided, though students are welcome to bring their own.
The training will be followed by a senior dan grading. Best of luck to everyone currently preparing to grade!
Timings of the day:
10:00 - 11:30: All Grades: Kata, Bunkai & Bo
11:30 - 13:00: Brown & Black Belts: Kata, Bunkai & Bo
13:30 - 17:00: Dan Gradings
Book here s.scka.co.uk/PsATgy
1 month ago | [YT] | 1
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