If you hold the grade of Godan or higher and can commit to refereeing at BKA Taikai next year you should apply to be sponsored at the EKF referees seminar in Brussels (Travel and subsistence will be covered by the BKA. The seminar and accommodation is free to delegates). Places are limited so please let me know if you want to be considered.

Your journey to international referee status will start with membership of the Black numbers group where you will be given instruction by high level Japanese referees (Hachidans) who will observe your performance and give feedback on how to improve.

After 2 or 3 seminars you may be advanced to the red group and could then be eligible for selection as a referee at the EKC or WKC.

Kendo Bucho