From its beginnings in China over 1000 years ago, through its development in Okinawa as a Martial Art used against armed feudal lords, to its inclusion in the Japanese schools and culture, karate has developed as a system of weaponless self-defence and more recently as a sport.
The benefits extend far beyond the self-defence aspect into training for the mind by increasing concentration, focus, and determination: for the body by increasing fitness, skill development and competition; and for building character by improving self-confidence, self-awareness and self-esteem. Participating in karate molds skills which carry over into all other aspects of life.
Karate is good for anyone at any age, helping to build healthy people within an atmosphere of respect and courtesy (maintained by practicing good etiquette) to assist all practitioners to attain their best, maintain self-control and develop good sportsmanship.
Although martial arts have been studied for hundreds of years, they have been taught by example, from teacher to student. Each student added his own flavor to the teachings of his sensei. Eventually the art developed into different styles. Because of their common beginnings, all styles have a common thread binding them together. The Nova Scotia Karate Association was founded on February 28, 1975, by people from various walks of life - and styles of karate - whose main interest was promoting unity among these styles. They knew that through unity they could better promote this martial art, expand participation and improve the quality of karate in Nova Scotia.
Purpose
The Nova Scotia Karate Association is the only body which the Province of Nova Scotia recognizes for karate.
To provide a provincial organization to promote, encourage and
stimulate interest in karate in Nova Scotia.
To create a forum for discussion and assist in the organization,
development and implementation of karate programs.
To celebrate the excellence in all styles of karate affiliated
under the NSKA.
What’s In It For You?
Tournaments
The NSKA Tournament co-ordinators structure the Provincial Grand Prix Tournaments. Competing in tournaments expands karate experience and can earn good competitors a place on the provincial team to compete at national and international events. Membership of the NSKA is a prerequisite for team membership and for entrance to NSKA sanctioned tournaments.
Seminars
Different styles of karate are recognized by the NSKA. From time to time, students at all levels are given special opportunities to learn from masters (or experts) who are invited from around the world to provide in-depth instruction for members.
Insurance Coverage
This is purchased through the NSKA and the NKA can provide protection (liability and injury for dojos, senseis and karateka) at a very affordable rate. It is automatically included in the membership annual dues.
First Aid
The NSKA attempts to subsidize First Aid & CPR/AED Training for clubs. Depending on the budget, the NSKA will arrange the session(s) and will pay for two member of each club to attend. All members of the NSKA are invited to attend and the NSKA will negotiate the cost of attendance for those not covered by the NSKA offer (the cost will depend on the number of participants).
Information
The NSKA mails out to each member club notices of all NSKA events, including tournaments, meetings, Officials Association events, NCCP Programs, minutes of meetings and other pertinent information. Be well informed – join the NSKA.
National Coaching Certification Program
The purpose of the National Certification Program (NCCP) is to upgrade the quality of instruction of our coaches and dojo instructors. Each stage of this five-level program covers three components of coaching: theory, technical and practical, the latter two being sport specific. The NSKA is the only body in the province authorized by the Coaching Association of Canada to conduct technical and practical seminars and certify the successful participants.
Officials Development
The NSKA Officials Association is a leader in Canada, with other provinces adopting the model developed here, in training and upgrading judges for kata, and referees for kumite. Membership in the NSKA allows access to this group which holds regular upgrading seminars. Their motto: “Safety of the competitor comes first” and a “Fair and equal playing field for all.”
Black Belt Recognition Program
The NKA, in collaboration with the provincial organizations, has established a program to provide dan ranking. This ensures consistent black belt standards and provides objective review of unique style associations or clubs without traditional parent organizations.
Government Funding
Money can be applied for by organizations to assist with program development for elite athletes, Officials and the NCCP.
Healthy Living Incentive Eligibility
The Healthy Living Tax Incentive is designed to encourage children to participate in a healthier lifestyle through fitness. The tax credit, or healthy living incentive, provides a tax credit of up to $500 per person to help with the cost of registering for sport or recreation activities that offer health benefits.
This is a tax credit not a tax rebate. A tax credit is a reduction against income tax. A person who claims the maximum of $500.00 can expect a tax reduction of $43.95. This amount will be deducted from your provincial income tax, much the same way your charitable donations are deducted.
You must keep registration tax receipts to claim the credit on your income tax return. Only receipts from those sport and recreation groups who have registered with the Department of Health Promotion and Protection are eligible. The NSKA is a registered group.
For more information contact the NSKA at:
Sports Nova Scotia, 5516 Spring Garden Road
PO Box 3010 S, Halifax, N.S., B3J 3G6
Tel(902)425-5450, Fax(902)425-5606