In our last Committee meeting of 2024, we discussed the significance of the the last and next year. We’ve had some of the most popular courses of recent times alongside clubs coming and going.
Congratulations to Michael Howson on establishing a permanent dojo in Milton Keynes and at the other end of the spectrum Dave Hill retired after many years of service to Aikido and the UKA for which were extremely thankful. The UKA do offer financial support anyone establishing a new club.
We should also congratulate Gordon on 60 years in aikido which was recognised with a fabulous course and evening event uniting newer and established aikidoka.
We hosted Winter School with Shirakawa Sensei (1.3M views on YouTube, if you find yourself with spare time read the comments) and an amazing Summer School with Katsurada Sensei from Hombu dojo. Across both these events our instructors shared aikido with over 300 students. All this helped us see a 10% growth in direct membership compared to this time last year.
2025 is lined up to be big year as the UKA celebrates 40 years since being established with events to be announced. We’ve just invested a four-figure sum in social media advertisements for our clubs. Winter school will led by our very own Shidoin & Shihan plus provisionally requesting Hino Sensei to return for Summer School.
We’re also pleased to announce Shirakawa Sensei has agreed to return to the UKA and teach our Winter Course in 2026.
There’s lots happening, none of which would be possible without the passion and support of committee members giving up their spare time to help the UKA succeed and grow. A huge thank you to all those who gave that extra effort to help organise and run the association. It’s worth noting we’re always looking for extra help so if you’d like to get involved, no matter what you’re grade then please get in touch.
Finally, none of this would be possible without the membership we’re blessed with supporting each other and national events. We’re looking forward to seeing you all in 2025!
Regards,
Mark
On behalf of the UKA Executive Committee
