Traditional Karate ITKF Summer Master Camp 2026 – The Revival of a Historic Tradition
A New Beginning for the ITKF Summer Master Camp
For many months, Sensei Richard (Rick) Jorgensen (9th Dan) devoted himself to preparing and promoting the ITKF Summer Master Camp 2026. More than just another training event, the camp represented the long-awaited revival of the International Traditional Karate Federation (ITKF) Summer Master Camps. These camps have played a central role in the development of Traditional Karate for decades and have inspired generations of karateka worldwide. After several years without an international summer camp, the 2026 edition became a milestone not only for the participants but also for the entire Traditional Karate community.
Right: Sensei Richard (Rick) Jorgensen (Chairman of the ITKF), Left: Sensei Michael Bock (Secretary General of the ITKF)
A Tradition Dating Back to 1967
The history of the ITKF Summer Master Camp began in 1967 in San Diego, California, under the leadership of Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama, whose vision established one of the most respected international training traditions in Traditional Karate. From 1967 to 2026, the ITKF has celebrated 61 years of Summer Camp history, with the 2026 event marking the 51st camp to be held. Although the venues changed following the passing of Sensei Nishiyama, the philosophy, technical standards, and educational principles of his teaching have remained unchanged. After a hiatus from 2017 to 2025, the Summer Master Camp finally returned in 2026. Since 2008, the technical leadership has been entrusted to Sensei Richard Jorgensen (9th Dan), who continues to preserve and develop Sensei Nishiyama’s legacy.
Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama
Brock University Hosts the 2026 Summer Master Camp
The ITKF Summer Master Camp 2026 took place from July 8 to July 12, 2026, at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada, just a short distance from the world-famous Niagara Falls. Although several instructors and karateka from Pakistan and Uzbekistan were unfortunately unable to attend because of visa restrictions, the camp welcomed 28 highly motivated participants from Germany, Canada, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Japan, and KMFAP. Germany provided the largest delegation, with twelve participants. Despite the smaller number of attendees, the atmosphere proved ideal for intensive instruction and close interaction between students and instructors.
Intensive Traditional Karate Training
Training began each morning at 9:00 a.m. and continued until noon, with a short break in between. The morning sessions focused on self-defense principles, breathing methods, body dynamics, and the generation and control of power. Afternoon training lasted from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. and concentrated on blocking techniques, punching, striking, stance and stepping, body shifting, and transitions within kata. The curriculum reflected the comprehensive technical system that has become the hallmark of Traditional Karate within the ITKF.
Technical Program and Advanced Instruction
On July 9, the emphasis was placed on the creation, delivery, and control of power, the technical application of ITKF Shiai rules, and advanced body dynamics. During the afternoon, participants worked extensively on kicking techniques, blocking, timing, kata, and self-defense applications (Bunkai). By the third day, the demanding training schedule had begun to take its toll, and many karateka experienced the familiar leg fatigue associated with intensive Summer Master Camps. Sensei Nishiyama often reminded his students that the middle of the camp is traditionally the most difficult stage and that perseverance is rewarded during the remaining days.
The morning instruction on the third day covered fundamental techniques combined with timing exercises, transitional kumite, Sanbon Kumite, Jiyu Ippon Kumite, Enbu regulations, and Bunkai. During the afternoon, participants trained Ko-Go and Jiyu Ippon Kumite before continuing with Bassai Dai, instructed by Sensei Slobodan Milicevic (8th Dan), followed by Jion, which was taught by Sensei Michael Bock (8th Dan, ITKF). For Michael Bock, it was both an honor and a privilege to contribute as an instructor to the revival of the historic ITKF Summer Master Camp.
Medical Education and the Future of the ITKF
The evening program included a presentation by Dr. Bojan Jelic, who spoke about working with children and young people from a medical perspective and emphasized healthy long-term athletic development. Later that evening, the ITKF Board of Directors convened to discuss the future direction of the organization. The meeting focused on revitalizing the ITKF, reviewing previous organizational challenges, strengthening international educational programs, expanding cooperation with universities, and planning future international championships. Among the major events discussed were the 13th ITKF World Shiai, scheduled for November 9–15, 2027, in Prague, Czech Republic, and the planned 39th ITKF European Shiai, which is expected to take place in Berlin, Germany, in November 2028.
Referee Training and Dan Examinations
Training on July 11 focused primarily on referee education. The morning sessions covered Kata judging, Kitei, synchronized Kata, Bunkai, breathing methods, and Embusen. During the afternoon, participants continued their study of Tai Sabaki, Embusen, Kitei, and advanced Bunkai under the guidance of the senior instructors. On the final day of the camp, referee education continued with practical instruction on the responsibilities of Fukushin and Shushin during Ko-Go and Jiyu Kumite. The program concluded with model matches that allowed referees to apply the knowledge acquired throughout the week in realistic competition scenarios.
Photos: Training – Left: Willfried Achilles (8th Dan) with Michael Bock (8th Dan); Center and right: During the training sessions.
Following the completion of the technical program, Dan examinations and instructor license examinations were conducted. Two candidates successfully achieved Sho-Dan (1st Dan), one candidate was promoted to San-Dan (3rd Dan), and three candidates earned the rank of Yon-Dan (4th Dan).
A Successful Revival of the ITKF Summer Camp Tradition
The participants expressed their sincere appreciation for the dedication and leadership of Sensei Richard Jorgensen, whose commitment ensured not only an outstanding technical program but also excellent organization, accommodation, and hospitality. The successful return of the ITKF Summer Master Camp demonstrated that this unique tradition of international Traditional Karate training has entered a new chapter while remaining firmly rooted in the philosophy and teachings established by Sensei Hidetaka Nishiyama more than six decades ago.
As the camp came to a close, there was unanimous agreement among all participants that the revival had been a complete success and that they looked forward to returning the following year.
Save the Date
ITKF Summer Master Camp 2027 will take place from July 20 to July 26, 2027, at Brock University, Ontario, Canada.
Michael Bock
ITKF General Secretary