Events
See below details of our Events from gradings, courses and competitions.
Orange - Brown Belt Kumite Progression Course
Led by Sensei Lisa Meagher (3rd Dan) this Orange - Brown Belt course builds on previous work on distance and timing, helping students apply these skills more effectively in kumite. The focus is on using feints to create reactions, improving counter-attacking, and making better decisions in live situations. Students will develop the ability to read opponents, act with better timing, and link footwork, technique and decision-making more effectively.
This course is designed to help students move from recognising opportunities to acting on them, reducing hesitation and improving overall effectiveness in kumite.
Registration closes Friday 15 May 6pm
USKFI OPEN National Championships
Following the success of the Open Shotokan Cup we are proud to invite you to the first USKFI National Open Championships
This event brings together karateka from across the country and is a superb opportunity to
Step onto the national stage and put your training to the test
Challenge yourself in a focused, safe and competitive environment
Represent your club in both individual and team events
Share the experience with friends family and the wider community
Whether you are aiming for the podium or looking to gain valuable experience this is an opportunity to grow compete and be part of the day. For USKFI members to register contact your USKFI instructor
Non USKFI clubs\instructors click to download and enter
Entries close 17th May. No registrations on the day
Queries? Email uskfi.admin@gmail.com
USKFI Seminar with Greg Hegarty
We are delighted to welcome Sensei Greg Hegarty to Dublin this September.
A highly accomplished competitor, Sensei Hegarty represented both the KUGB English and British teams, achieving success at national, European, and World level, including World and European team titles and multiple individual medals.
Since concluding his competitive career in 2017, he has continued to make a significant contribution to karate through teaching, coaching, and leadership, and now runs Solihull Karate Academy full-time. With decades of experience grounded in traditional karate and elite competition, Sensei Hegarty brings exceptional knowledge and insight to this USKFI seminar.
U.S.K.F.I. Refs & Judges Course
Are you ready to start refereeing or judging ? Or take your current expertise to the next level? The USKFI Referees and Judges Courses are FREE and open to all dan grades ahead 18 and over. These courses are designed to unravel the rules of competition officiating in a positive and welcoming environment through practical scenarios and guidance from our most senior referees. Whether you're a seasoned referee or have never donned a blazer, come along and improve your knowledge.
Register your interest in advance via email uskfirefs@gmail.com
USKFI Shotokan Cup OPEN 2026
Join us for the USKFI Open Shotokan Cup 2026 on Sunday, October 18th at Phibblestown Sports Centre, Dublin 15. This exciting day of competition will feature a wide range of categories, offering something for karateka of all ages and levels. The event will showcase Shotokan at its best — spirit, technique, and mutual respect. Whether competing or cheering from the sidelines , all are invited to be part of this vibrant and memorable day.
USKFI members can enter as usual by speaking with their club instructor.
Non USKFI members are welcome to take part, but please ensure you have a valid licence and suitable insurance, and that all entries must come through your club instructor.
Spectators: Adults – €5 Children – €3.
Registration details to follow:
Brown/Black Belt Course + Pre Dan
Grading in next 12 to 18 months?
This course is designed to refine your techniques, build confidence, and ensure you’re grading-ready. An essential step in your Dan grade journey.
Seminar and Dan grading with Sensei Frank Brennan
Registration and full details to follow…..
USKFI Squad Selection 2027 (Free)
Why try for the USKFI Squad?
Registration 9.10am
Class starts 9.30 sharp
Competing on the USKFI Squad is your opportunity to elevate your skills, challenge yourself, and represent Ireland at international competition!. As a squad member, you’ll have the chance to:
Compete Internationally: Represent Ireland in national, KUGB , European, and World Championships events!
All Expenses Paid: Travel, accommodation, and entry fees for international competitions are covered by USKFI.
Elite Training: Access specialised technical and tactical coaching, psychology, nutrition, and strength and conditioning sessions led by qualified coaches.
Unmatched Support: Benefit from personalised guidance and mentorship from our experienced coaching team to help you excel.
Start your journey! If you dont try you will never know?
Don’t miss this chance to push your limits, showcase your skills on the global stage, and be part of an exceptional journey!
Open to all brown and back belts aged 10 years and above. Please bring a passport photo on the day along with mitts, gumshields and water.
Please arrive by 9.10am to allow for registration
Registration is now closed
Seminar and Dan grading with Sensei Frank Brennan
USKFI are delighted to welcome Sensei Frank Brennan for a special seminar and Dan grading event.
The day includes senior training open to brown and black belts, providing valuable instruction and insight for those preparing to grade in the the next 12-18 months
Course times: 10.30-12pm and 12.30 - 1.45
Dan grading begins at 2.30pm
Registration is now closed …..
Brown/Black Belt Course + Pre Dan
The course is open to all brown and black belts, with a special emphasis on the grading syllabus. Sensei David Royle, 7th dan, will guide participants through the requirements for their next grading as well as providing fine tuning for those familiar with the syllabus. If you are thinking of dan grading within the next 18 months, or simply want to train and improve your karate, then register now
Registration now closed
Sensei Frank Brennan Course
We are delighted to welcome Sensei Frank Brennan (8th Dan) back to Dublin for our Spring course.
Sensei Brennan is internationally recognised for his expertise, offering a valuable opportunity for brown and black belt holders to develop and refine their karate.
Course times
10am - 11.30 and 12.15-1.45
Family discounts are available. Please bring your coursebook for signing.
Registration now closed….
USKFI Youth Championships
the USKFI Youth Championships is for USKFI members only and the perfect opportunity to gear up for competition season
Here’s why you should participate:
Showcase Your Skills: This is your chance to shine and demonstrate everything you’ve learned!
Confidence: You are probably better than you think! If you have never competed before now is the time to try in a fun and safe environment
Team Spirit: Cheer on your friends and enjoy the camaraderie that makes our sport unique.
Family and Friends: We encourage you to invite your family and friends to come and support you! There’s nothing like hearing familiar faces cheering from the crowd!
Registration details to follow
U.S.K.F.I. Refs & Judges Course
Are you ready to start refereeing or judging ? Or take your current expertise to the next level? The USKFI Referees and Judges Courses are FREE and open to all dan grades ahead 18 and over. These courses are designed to unravel the rules of competition officiating in a positive and welcoming environment through practical scenarios and guidance from our most senior referees. Whether you're a seasoned referee or have never donned a blazer, come along and improve your knowledge.
Register your interest in advance via email uskfirefs@gmail.com
USKFI Dan Grade preparation course
Designed and delivered by Sensei Jennifer Prendergast (6th Dan), this course supports brown and black belts preparing for Dan gradings by focusing on the areas that most impact performance.
Training will focus on efficient use of energy and breathing, refined timing in kata and kumite, and effective distance, ensuring every technique is delivered with purpose and no wasted energy.
What to expect:
• Structured kihon combinations with focus on breathing and energy efficiency
• Grading specific special combinations
• Kata training to develop rhythm, flow, and momentum
• One for One kumite drills to challenge habitual distance
• Grade appropriate kumite with emphasis on timing, distance, and energy transfer
Dont forget to bring your coursebook. Regular attendance at USKFI courses is ba prerequisite for Dan gradings.
Registration now closed
Orange - Brown Belt Introduction to Kumite Course
Our popular Introduction to Kumite course for orange to brown belts is back!
Led by our Squad Coach Sensei David Royle 7th dan, you will learn timing and distance, defensive strategies, effective counter attacks, how to close distance and much more!
By the end of the class, you will have gained practical tools to improve your kumite, whether you are new to kumite or looking to take your skills to the next level.
Registrations are now closed….
Brown/Black Belt Course
Join us for our first USKFI event of the year, led by Sensei Michael Sherlock (7th Dan). This course will focus on kata and kumite for senior grades.
The course provides an excellent opportunity to train under an experienced instructor, revisit key principles, and approach the year ahead with renewed focus and purpose. A valuable chance to shake off the cobwebs, reconnect with your training, and set a strong foundation for the year ahead.
Registrations now closed ….
USKFI Brown/Black Belt Course
The final brown and black belt course of the year with Sensei David Royle for Brown and Black will be a focused technical session and is one not to be missed.
This course will improve understanding and execution of jiyu ippon and kaeshi ippon kumite by focusing on speed, timing and distance. Students will develop tactics to close distance using multiple angles.
Participants will also refine kata execution through improving dynamic hip rotation, leg speed and efficiency as well as whole-body coordination.
Don’t forget regular attendance at USKFI courses is a pre-requisite when applying to take Dan gradings!
Registrations now closed……
USKFI Squad Selection 2026 (Free)
Why try for the USKFI Squad?
Registration 9.10am
Class starts 9.30 sharp
Competing on the USKFI Squad is your opportunity to elevate your skills, challenge yourself, and represent Ireland at international competition!. As a squad member, you’ll have the chance to:
Compete Internationally: Represent Ireland in national, KUGB , European, and World Championships events!
All Expenses Paid: Travel, accommodation, and entry fees for international competitions are covered by USKFI.
Elite Training: Access specialised technical and tactical coaching, psychology, nutrition, and strength and conditioning sessions led by qualified coaches.
Unmatched Support: Benefit from personalised guidance and mentorship from our experienced coaching team to help you excel.
Start your journey! If you dont try you will never know?
Don’t miss this chance to push your limits, showcase your skills on the global stage, and be part of an exceptional journey!
Open to all brown and back belts aged 10 years and above. Please bring a passport photo on the day along with mitts, gumshields and water.
Please arrive by 9.10am to allow for registration
Registration is now closed
Seminar and Dan grading with Sensei Frank Brennan
We’re delighted to welcome Sensei Frank Brennan back to Ireland for the USKFI Seminar and Dan Grading at Corduff Sports Centre, Dublin. This is a fantastic opportunity for all USKFI members to train under one of the most respected karate instructors in the world.
Attendance is strongly recommended for all Brown and Black belts. For those selected to grade dont forget the full grading syllabus is always available on our website here
First class 10.45-12pm
Break
Second class 12.15-1.30pm
Dan grading starts at 2.30pm
Registration is now closed…………
Brown/Black Belt Course + Pre Dan
Grading in next 12 to 18 months?
This course is designed to refine your techniques, build confidence, and ensure you’re grading-ready. An essential step in your Dan grade journey.
Registration now closed ….
USKFI Shotokan Cup OPEN 2025
Join us for the USKFI Open Shotokan Cup 2025 on Sunday, October 19th at Phibblestown Sports Centre, Dublin 15. This exciting day of competition will feature a wide range of categories, offering something for karateka of all ages and levels. The event will showcase Shotokan at its best — spirit, technique, and mutual respect. Whether competing or cheering from the sidelines , all are invited to be part of this vibrant and memorable day.
USKFI members can enter as usual by speaking with their club instructor.
Non USKFI members are welcome to take part, but please ensure you have a valid licence and suitable insurance, and that all entries must come through your club instructor.
Spectators: Adults – €5 Children – €3.
Please note:
Further information is also available here on categories etc here.
Entries can only be made on the official entry form available here and sent via your by instructors only.
The final date for entries is the 12th October.
If you have any questions, your instructor can get in touch via the email uskfi.admin@gmail.com
