The Karate Federation of
Nigeria (KFN) has said that it had concluded plans to organise a Shitoryu refreshers course for athletes, coaches and umpires.
The course is scheduled to hold at the National Stadium, Lagos, between  June 7 and  8 this year.
Paschal Mac-Brawn, a member of the organising committee of the programme, told newsmen in Lagos that the course would be anchored by Sensel Wim Tewinkel from Canada.
“ We considered the financial implication of our technical officials attending such a course abroad; so, we decided to bring an expert from Canada.
“It is a privilege to have such a seasoned personality in our midst; we must take full advantage of that to upgrade coaching and officiating skills,” he said.
He said that the two-day course would be compulsory for athletes, officials and umpires.
Mac-Brawn noted that the World Karate Federation (WKF) recognised Shitoryu, Wadaoryu, Gojuryu and Shotokan as four major styles essential for the development of the knowledge athletes and officials.
“The idea is to ensure that our athletes and technical officials are not found wanting in any aspect of karate development.
“We want them to have a full knowledge of these styles.
“Now, we are starting with Shitoryu, and it will involve a lot of theory and practical. Examination will be conducted at the end of the course, ’’ he said.
According to him, letters have been sent to state associations and clubs, informing them about course.
He hoped that the course would improve the standard of the sport in the country.
“I am optimistic that our athletes will benefit from attending,’’ he said.
Mac-Brawn, however, said that participants would be responsible for their accommodation and feeding.

Basketball players in action during a national event in Port Harcourt, Rivers State recently.