Luca Valdesi, current World & European Kata Champion was invited to conduct a Kata seminar.  Hosted by NLSK Chief Instructor John De Bono (EKF Board Director) this was Luca’s first visit to England and he seemed as excited to be here, as everyone was to actually meet him in person.

The day started off with anticipation as to what the maestro might have in store, as the first few students started to file into the sports hall. Before things got underway Luca was bombarded with requests for signed photo’s and snapshots.  Eventually the course did get underway and on time.

The first session was geared for 4th Kyu and below but as it turned out some higher grades that had arrived early, were invited to join in.  Much to their delight! Luca concentrated firstly on the basics, he then moved on to the Katas Heian Shodan and Nidan.  He rounded the training off with a series of bunkai applications for both these katas.

There was a break for a much needed lunch and time for a few more autograph signings.  Many clubs and associations had turned up to support the event and it was a joy to see so many young and talented athletes benefiting from this unique experience.  There were lots of familiar faces in the crowd and some were awaiting the outcome of the World Junior selections process.  This was in order to see if they will be lucky enough to represent their countries in Morocco this coming November.

The afternoon session commenced at 1pm and by which time the hall was almost full to capacity.  The warm up got underway, it seemed to be no ordinary set of exercises, every muscle in the body was worked systematically, and it seemed like a science almost.  This wasn’t just going to be any old training session.  Luca chose to work on Unsu, a much-performed competition Kata.  The buzz in the atmosphere was electric. Everyone was punching in synchronisation, with power and precision.  He broke down the kata into sections, and then students were encouraged to work in pairs to practice the bunkai applications.  Just by using simple techniques, they could achieve maximum impact.

Although at least half the students didn’t practice Shotokan, there were no complaints, with everyone eager to learn whatever was shown to them.

After five hours of teaching and training hard himself, Luca rewarded the students with his own performance of Unsu.  True to form he did not disappoint.  As if he was competing at the World Championships, he wowed his audience.  For most this was the first opportunity to see this charismatic figure doing what only he does best.  We were all mesmerised by his speed, power and accuracy.  How he made everything he did look effortless and so perfect. He finished to a standing ovation. What more could anyone want, the day was a success.

Since the seminar we have been inundated with positive feedback and on a final note I would like to share these sentiments.

From  parents:

“Just a line to let you know that the course was an inspiration for Jack and he is already adapting his training as a result.  It was a great opportunity and we both thank you for your vision and efforts to present us with Luca. I know it took alot of time and effort but for us it was immense, again many thanks.”

“Both my children really enjoyed Sunday, Alex even said he'd wished that he could have done the course before the kata selections as it would have helped.  Since then he’s been practising that kata and he doesn't usually do Shotokan”. 

From a student:

“Just emailing to say a big thank you for the course last weekend! Luca is amazing and I found him very inspiring.  I am glad that I did the two sessions to have longer training with him.  I really really enjoyed the course so just wanted to say thanks.”

From a Chief Instructor

“A quick note to thank you for all your work in securing the services of Luca Valdesi. Fifteen of my students attended on Sunday and the feedback has been excellent. The course undoubtedly helped British competitive Kata take a small step in the right direction and it must have been gratifying for you to see so many of Britain's top Kata competitors in attendance. Once again a massive thank you and well done!”

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