Shotokan Connect is proud to announce the promotion of Sensei Ivan Birch and Ian Willis to 7th Dan. Please join us in celebrating their well-deserved achievement of Shichidan.
This prestigious Dan grade was awarded by the Executive and QA Committees of Shotokan Connect and marks a major step forward in the growth and confidence of the association. Congratulations to both of these inspirational, talented and respected karateka.
An established and senior instructor at Red Lion Karate Club in Eastbourne, Sensei Birch offers over 40 years of dedicated karate experience.
Between starting his karate journey in 1975, grading for his 6th Dan in 2014 and taking on the position of chairperson of Shotokan Connect, Sensei Ivan:
Having become a professional karate instructor in 1981, Sensei Willis offers over 40 years of dedicated karate experience.
As an established and senior instructor of the Northumberland Karate Academy (NKA) in Ashington, Sensei Ian:
Congratulations again to you both. This is an incredible achievement for you both personally and marks a major step forward in the evolution and continued expansion of Shotokan Connect.
