The 58th International NKKO Summer Camp was successfully held at the Papendal Sports Centre in the Netherlands, bringing together more than 130 Kyokushin karate practitioners from across Europe.
Participants from the Netherlands, Poland, France, Spain and other European countries gathered for several days of intensive training, technical development and international exchange. The camp provided an opportunity for karateka of different ages and experience levels to challenge themselves, expand their knowledge and strengthen the values of discipline, respect and camaraderie that define Kyokushin Karate.
The training sessions were led by an experienced international team of instructors, including Shihan Antonio Piñero, 9th dan, from Spain; Shihan Fernando Pérez, 7th dan, from Spain; Shihan Jérôme de Timmerman, 5th dan, from France; and Sensei Krzysztof Kopciowski, 4th dan, from Poland.
They were joined by leading Dutch instructors headed by Shihan Paul Lorist, 6th dan; Shihan Aloys te Braake, 6th dan; Shihan Jeroen Zeegers, 5th dan; and Shihan Mike te Braake, 5th dan.
Throughout the camp, participants took part in specialised workshops and seminars focused on kihon, kata and kumite. The programme also included sparring sessions and competitive activities, allowing the karateka to apply their techniques in practice and gain valuable experience.
The evening programme offered opportunities for relaxation and team-building, helping participants from different countries form new friendships and strengthen the international Kyokushin community.
An important part of the summer camp was the grading examination. Several participants successfully earned new dan grades, including new shodans and nidans. Andre van Wezel was promoted to yondan, while Rien Brink and Dominic Monasso, both godan, were recognised as new shihans.
Congratulations to everyone who successfully completed the examination and reached a new milestone in their Kyokushin journey.
The organisers expressed their gratitude to all participants, instructors and volunteers for their dedication, enthusiasm and contribution to the success of the event. The 58th International NKKO Summer Camp was a true celebration of the spirit and values of Kyokushin Karate.
The next NKKO Summer Camp will take place from 9 to 12 July 2027.
Osu!
NKKO: Full in Contact – Strong in Life
Kyokushin Karate KWF, The Netherlands – NKKO
