British Wado Federation
The British Wado Federation (BWF) is an organization dedicated to supporting traditional Wado Karate in the UK, maintaining the purity of the style without compromising it for the multi-style, sport-oriented agendas that many national karate governing bodies promote.
The BWF presents itself as an alternative for those who are frustrated by the political struggles, financial burdens, and irrelevant requirements imposed by “All-Styles” Karate National Governing Bodies (NGBs). The organization champions the idea that Wado, as a traditional style, cannot thrive under such conditions and should remain autonomous.
The BWF’s approach reflects a resistance to the consolidation of diverse martial arts styles under single, all-encompassing governing bodies, arguing that different karate styles—just like distinct sports—cannot effectively operate under the same governance. They draw analogies to sports like football and rugby, or baseball and rounders, where each has its own governing body due to the unique nature of each sport. Similarly, they believe that styles such as Wado, which has its own principles and traditions, cannot and should not be diluted or unified with other karate styles under a generic, sport-driven organization.
Key principles and goals of the BWF
- Loyalty to Style: The BWF emphasizes loyalty to Wado Karate and rejects the idea of merging or compromising with other karate styles for sport or political purposes.
- Autonomy: The federation provides a platform for independent Wado clubs and groups to function without the interference or influence of multi-style NGBs.
- Non-Profit Structure: The BWF is a non-commercial, non-profit entity that exists solely to support its members and Wado Karate without ulterior motives or hidden agendas.
- Supportive Services: Members of the BWF can access services such as licensing, insurance, legal advice, coaching courses, grade progression, and traditional Wado competitions, all while maintaining their autonomy.
- Non-Political Stance: The federation rejects political agendas related to sport-karate and the push to unify various karate styles under a single banner, prioritizing the development of Wado Karate in its pure form.
The BWF sees itself as a neutral, supportive body that provides infrastructure and assistance, not control or authority over how Wado karate should be practiced by its members. This enables Wado practitioners to focus on their styles’ traditional practices without being forced into a generic, sport-oriented.
The federation’s formation in 2007, evolving from earlier organizations, represents its commitment to traditional Wado, free from the influences of multi-style politics.