News 2020

Posted 16th July 2020
Sport England update on indoor karate

Dear Members,

Following a meeting with Sport England this morning we have now acquired agreement that indoor karate can resume from 25th July BUT with significant restrictions.

Full details and guidance will be forthcoming. Please bear with us and this will follow as soon as possible.

However, you are also advised to check with your facility provider on any requirements they may insist on. 

Best wishes, Steve, EKF President

Posted 9th July 2020
COVID Update

Dear Members, Colleagues and friends

As you may have seen the government are further easing the lockdown restrictions, which will allow people to return to Gyms and leisure centres in the coming weeks.

We are not sure (at this time)  what this will look like but we shall seek clarity in the coming days and provide that information as it becomes available.

Our understanding is that there will be different impacts on those that run their own private dojo/clubs, to those that hire their facilities. Clearly those that hire (which is the majority of clubs) will need to follow whatever regulations their facility provider imposes. Private owners will have guidance in the coming days. However, what is clear is that class sizes will be reduced significantly to ensure we have appropriate social distancing. We are led to believe that this could be as little as 25% of normal classes, but dependent on venue space

We would also caution members that some facilities (especially schools) might not allow return of classes at this time and you are advised to check rather than assume.

We also strongly advise that you speak to your insurance company for any further guidance or limitations they might impose or insist upon

Below are some of the measures you may need to consider and we would advise you to plan. It is by no means an exhaustive list, and will no doubt change as Government plans become clearer. 

1. Safe Entry and exit to the dojo....maintaining social distancing. That is clearly marked and orderly entry and exit.
2. Temperature check on entry (electronic devices are widely available through the internet). Possibly simple health check questionnaire on arrival.
3. Register of those attending, including spectators, with clear and up to date contact details (should there be an issue. contact and trace will be required....similar to pub arrangements)
4. People to arrive changed but ideally with jacket or similar over the top.... Unlikely any changing rooms to be available. There may also be a requirement to pre-book sessions. Clubs should give consideration as to whether a full gi is appropriate
5. Training in sports shoes.... no bare feet.
6. Gi, or training clothes to be cleaned between sessions.
7. Marked individual training spaces.... will be a challenge for our younger members.
8. All those entering and leaving to use sterile cleaning gel (clubs may need to provide)
9. No sharing of equipment
10. Cleaning of any areas between classes.
11. No ki-ai.... We know that shouting risks projecting droplets over a wider space. Face masks might need to worn, though we think unlikely.
12. Correct ventilation... open all windows where possible and as appropriate.
13. Contact less payments should be considered
14. No contact training at this time (tbc)
15. All Safe Guarding protocols to remain in place

In the meantime, keep safe and keep those around you safe, EKF Board

Posted 24th June 2020
COVID Update

Dear Members 

As most of you will be aware the government have further eased lockdown measures by reducing social distancing to one metre, as well as allowing the opening of bars, pubs, restaurants, and other facilities.

We have had a number of calls asking if that means our dojo/clubs can open. Unfortunately, the relaxation of regulations does not yet allow for indoor sport to resume, so indoor karate training is not allowed.  It's not only our sport but everything from badminton, to aerobics, to gymnastics, and so forth.

Whilst some venues that are used for training will open, they are doing so for social interactions/activities and really not for sport. 

We are aware that some venues are inviting coaches to attend COVID planning meetings, and it is inferred training will be allowed. However, EKF advice is to follow the government guidance. To not do so will likely risk not only your insurance, but also risk of fines.

When we do eventually get the green light to train, there are likely to be considerable changes to how we normally practice. The EKF will continue to acquire the best guidance and advice, but we fully anticipate the class sizes will be limited, and the none contact training to continue. There is hope that we may be allowed back into our clubs at the end of July, but this has not been confirmed

In the meantime, the rules do allow for us to train outside, in groups of no more than six, with no contact training (that is no sparring, or partner work whatsoever). As ever, we strongly advise you check with your insurance company for guidance on their specific requirements.

Stay Safe and keep those around you safe.

Steve Coupland, EKF President

Posted 16th June 2020
BLM Statement

The EKF strongly condemns discrimination of any kind and will strive to ensure that Karate in England is both diverse and inclusive. We are proud to be the representative body of such a diverse Federation. We are dedicated to promoting equality and valuing the diversity within the EKF and the members we serve.

We as a nation are facing testing times, as recent events have again highlighted that Racism and inequality continues to be an issue within our society. It has opened wounds and scars of many of our members that have had to suffer at the hands of the evil just because of the colour of their skin.

Karate has the power to break down barriers across communities and we remain deeply committed to removing all forms of discrimination from within Karate in England and Worldwide. We condemn wholeheartedly the murder of George Floyd at the hands of Minnesota Police and stand in full solidarity with the global #blacklivesmatter movement. We also stand in solidarity with all those who are unjustly treated because of their race or ethnicity and the EKF support the continued fight for justice and equality. We will strive to ensure that the EKF leads the way as we stand against racism with all our members.

The EKF Board

Posted 10th May 2020
VE Day 75th Anniversary

Today marks the 75th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe). This is a day to celebrate but also to look back and remember the sacrifices this generation made for peace. At a time of national crisis the nation pulled together and made the country a better place post-war. There are lessons in this for where we find ourselves today

Enjoy the day however you are choosing to mark this occasion and let us never forget that, ‘so much is owed by so many to so few’.

Posted 6th May 2020
Official EKF courses notice

Dear Members

The EKF is aware of the many excellent online training courses and sessions that are currently being offered to you and we hope they continue to be of benefit.

However, the EKF wish to make clear that during these difficult times, all Official EKF courses will be advertised on the EKF website and Social media platforms, and will be FREE of charge. It is EKF policy at this time to not profit from any of our activities in anyway, shape, or form.

EKF courses will not replace those that our member associations or clubs might be offering. We encourage members to continue 'attending' their club sessions which both support clubs, and offer specific training to match your individual needs.

Keep Safe
The EKF Board

Posted 23rd April 2020
EKF Dan Grade Application update

Please note our Dan Grade registration process is being upgraded at this time. We will advise when the process is complete.

Posted 5th April 2020
Passing of Harold Stephenson

The EKF has learned of the sad passing of Harold Stephenson.

We would like to extend our deepest condolences to Harold's family.

Harold will be best known for being one of our senior referees, but he was also a passionate martial artist.

He will be sadly missed, but not forgotten.

RIP Harold
The EKF 

Posted 5th April 2020
Sport England package of funding

Dear Members,

We hope that you are well and that you and your loved ones are keeping safe.

Sport England have announced a package of funding which local clubs can apply for in order to help them out financially throughout this pandemic. We urge you to look closely at the information provided on the below link which may prove to be an invaluable source of income for many.

https://www.sportengland.org/news/195-million-package-help-sport-and-physical-activity-through-coronavirus

With best wishes,
EKF Board

Posted 31st March 2020
A request from retired EKF Referee Harold Stephenson

The EKF have been informed that our Referee/Official who retired recently has a medical fight he isn’t going to win. He remains strong and determined... and in typical Harold fashion, he isn't giving up anytime soon.

The EKF joins with Harold at these difficult times and invite all members and colleagues and friends to show their support in Harold's request below. Harold has always been one of the EKF's greatest supporters..... now is a time when we can return that support.

Harold asks : On Friday 3rd April at 20:30 we all go out to our gardens with a torch and shine it up to the sky and take 2 minutes to remember those people who have lost their lives, and those fighting this terrible virus.

Please share this amongst Association, Clubs, Friends and Families. We would be most grateful for everyone’s support in this.

English Karate Federation
Board of Directors

Posted 24th March 2020
Joint Statement from the International Olympic Committee and the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee

International Olympic Committee Press Release

View this press release online

EKF Board

Posted 19th March 2020
Coronavirus Statement from the Board

Dear Members, Colleagues and Friends

As we are all aware the Coronovirus is impacting across all our communities, and all our lives. The situation is unprecedented in modern time, and poses immense challenges for everyone.

The EKF have had a number of enquiries around the crisis, seeking advice on what actions Association/club should be taking. In short, we can only advise you all to follow Government guidelines (Link below), and keep up to speed with what is an ever changing situation.

https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response

In addition, more advice is available on the NHS website....

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

The Government are making clear they require us all to avoid large gatherings, and are encouraging 'social distancing'. We believe it is clear that these measures will be imposed for some time and we urge all members to follow that advice

To this end, the EKF are cancelling all planned activities. including National and Regional squad sessions, until further notice. At this time we do not know when we might have some sense of 'normality' but we will keep members informed as matters unfold.

To further these aims, all events posted for May, June and July, will be removed from the EKF website calendar. We do not feel it is responsible for an NGB to be encouraging members to attend events at this time.

We also recognise that licencing is nigh on impossible, so we do not expect Associations to complete monthly returns until this crisis is over.

For those people that teach karate professionally, who may run full time dojo, we urge you to read the Chancellors message and initiative announced on 17/03/20, which contained various support available for small business. You may qualify for this help.

As it is likely most clubs will close down for the duration of this crisis, we would suggest that you try to maintain contact with your club members (observing all safe guarding protocols) by social media and other platforms. For some people, who may live alone, and might be in isolation, this contact can be invaluable. By maintaining these 'relationships' it should prove easier to pick up on things once we are able to return to normality.

In closing, the Board fully appreciate that these are dark and strange times for everyone, not only in England but around the world. There are no easy solutions, no easy answers, and no quick fixes. What we do know is that as Martial Artist we are incredibly resilient and if we remain calm and strong, we will endure.

Our thoughts are with all those currently affected and we wish them well.

Stay safe, keep those around you safe.

Steve Coupland
EKF President

Posted 16th March 2020
Coronavirus update

As I am sure you are all aware, the coronavirus issue is impacting across all our daily lives with the situation developing daily.

The EKF has been monitoring the situation, and acting in accordance with Government advice and guidelines. However, the Board feel that we need to further consider the health and wellbeing of our members, and their families.

As you know, the European Karate Championships have been cancelled, along with a host of International Karate Championships.

As such the EKF is taking the following action with immediate effect:

The Commonwealth Karate Championships scheduled for September in Birmingham, will now be postponed until 2021.  We have been in discussion with the CKF executive, and whilst we expect the worse of the crisis to be over, we are aware that nations will be reluctant to commit to any events overseas whilst there are still so many unknown factors.

The English Nationals will also be postponed. At this time it is our intention is to hold them in September but this will be very much dependent on how this crisis unfolds.

The National Squad session and referee/coaches course scheduled for April is CANCELLED.  We will continue to monitor the situation and advise on future sessions accordingly.

We apologise for any inconvenience, but I am sure you can all appreciate the gravity of the situation and the very unusual circumstances.

To individual associations and clubs, we ask you to follow Government advice/guidelines, which can change daily, taking all measures that are needed.

On behalf of the Board may I thank you for your co-operation and understanding.

Kind Regards
Steve Coupland, EKF President

Posted 10th March 2020
Passing of Sensei Bob Poynton

It is with regret that the EKF informs you of the sad passing of one of England’s and Britain’s finest karateka, Sensei Bob Poynton of the KUGB. We extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends and loved ones.

Posted 8th March 2020
International Women's day 2020.

International Women's day 2020 is all about creating an equal world.

We can all actively choose to challenge stereotypes, fight bias, broaden perceptions, improve situations and celebrate women's achievement.

The Karate world has been a platform of growth for Women and the equality message.

The EKF has a commitment to continue to develop as an organisation that promotes Equality throughout.

Posted 27th February 2020
Results of  Kyu Grades 2020.

Please click here to view: https://www.sportdata.org/karate/set-online/popup_main.php?popup_action=results&vernr=5062&active_menu=calendar

Posted 6th February 2020
Time to Talk Day

Time to Talk Day brings the nation together to get talking and break the silence around mental health problems – 6th February 2020.

Around 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem this year, yet the shame and silence can be as bad as the mental health problem itself. The EKF are encouraging its members to start talking about mental health so as a wider community we can break down stereotypes, improve relationships, aid recovery and take the stigma out of something that affects us all.

Talking about mental health can feel awkward, but it doesn't have to. This year the #timetotalk campaign are using the popular game 'Would you rather?' to help break the ice and get the conversation flowing.

Choosing to talk can make a real difference to someone’s life. But sometimes these conversations can bring up some difficult things that people may not have spoken about before. This might mean that they need some support.

Below you’ll find a list of organisations that can help you, or someone else, to find support:

Mind Infoline
Telephone: 0300 123 3393
www.mind.org.uk/help/advice_lines

Samaritans
Telephone: 116 123 – 24 hours a day, free to call

Posted 5th February 2020
Region Coach interviews update

Dear Regional Coach applicants,

Please be advised that there have been a number of interviews held for the Regional positions. However, we are working on finalising dates and times for the remaining candidates. 

Each candidate will be contacted over the next week or so with proposed dates and times for interview. 

Please do bare with us as we finalise this process and we thank you for your patience and understanding with what has been an influx of talented coach applications.

Posted 3rd February 2020
Did you know it's LGBT+ History Month?

LGBT History Month spans throughout February to celebrate the progress made by LGBT+ people in securing equal rights and fighting against discrimination, as well as to acknowledge the progress still to be made.

The English Karate Federation is dedicated to promoting equality and embracing the diversity within our Associations.

Here we have England Squad member Sophie Santillo giving us an insight into her journey both inside and outside of Karate.

Posted 27th January 2020
Sensei Eddie Daniels

The EKF would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Sensei Eddie Daniels after his recent passing

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