On February 12–16, 2026, Shihan Radek Ambroziak, The Country Representative & The Branch Chief of Poland, had the great honor of visiting Italy. Being invited by Shihan Samuele Casto, Shihan Radek led a Kyokushin Karate training seminar in memory of Shihan Nicoletti Tommaso – the pioneer who opened the first-ever Kyokushin Karate dojo in Italy. It was an incredibly important event, filled with the spirit of true budo.
From the very first moments, the karatekas experienced a great atmosphere and an incredibly warm welcome from all the students of the Italian Kyokushin organization. Openness, respect, and fighting spirit created exceptional conditions for learning and improving together.
The training sessions were held in three exceptional locations: Dojo Collepasso led by Shihan Roberto Greco, Dojo Sannicola led by Shihan Luciano Centonze, and the Italian So-Kyokushin Honbu Dojo Shihan Samuele Casto in Parabita. Each of these dojos has its own unique energy and people dedicated to the Kyokushin way. Each keiko was focused on kihongeiko and kata, with particular emphasis on the physics of karate and fundamental principles such as “kime,” “kankyu,” “kyojaku,” and “ma.” The final day of the training was devoted to combat tactics, also analyzing them based on human anatomy to better understand the effectiveness of techniques and their practical applications.
The seminar culminated in a collective kumite of all participants, dedicated to the memory of Shihan Nicoletti. It was a moment filled with emotion, a spirit of unity, and true Kyokushin.
This trip was not only an extraordinary journey of self-improvement in karate, but also an experience of culture and people. Every day we were accompanied by wonderful Italian cuisine and hospitality.
Huge thanks to Shihan Samuele Casto for organizing this extraordinary karate event, Shihan Roberto Greco and Shihan Luciano Centonze for their hospitality, and to all participants for their shared training, fighting spirit, and the dedication they poured into every moment of the seminar.
Heartfelt thanks to Senpai Francesco Gatto for his assistance with teaching and invaluable support. We also extend our thanks to Sensei Vitali Fernando for his time and kindness in providing airport transfers,
Sensei Zocco Massimo for his exemplary cooperation, and Sensei Lucio Colizzi for providing translation during the seminar.This was an extraordinary event in the spirit of Kyokushin Karate. OSU!!!
