Sensei Con Kassis

17 April 1959 - 7 June 2022

The Karate world mourns the passing of esteemed practitioner Sensei Con Kassis - 8th Dan.

Con Kassis was one of Australia’s greatest contributors to Sport Karate at the State, National and International level, being involved in all aspects of the sport for over 40 years.

Con was incredibly passionate about traditional Karate. He was the direct student of Kenei Mabuni, son of the founder of Shito Ryu Karate. Con was well versed in other styles, driven by his devotion to learn, which contributed to his success as an acclaimed coach and international judge.

At the age of 35, Con Kassis was the youngest official to pass the World Karate Federation Kata Judge license. He became the first Australian to ever receive the qualification and dual licenses in Kata & Kumite. The highest officiating license for competition karate within the World Karate Federation.

Con’s technical skill and knowledge earned him the position of Chairman of the World Karate Federation Referee commission in 2010. His ability to educate and develop students and officials contributed to Australia developing one of the highest number of internationally qualified officials in the world.

Con was then later appointed as Chairman of the World Karate Federation Technical Committee. He is the only person to have held both positions within the World Karate Federation. Con was instrumental in the overhaul of the competition rules in preparation for Karate’s debut at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

The Australian Karate Federation has lost one of its most influential Karate-Ka and friend. Our deepest condolences to his wife Rosanna, his family, students, and friends.

With condolences

Hani Zahra

AKF National President