At The Sussex Sign Company, we’ve always believed that great businesses are built on strong communities, and that means supporting the people, clubs and initiatives that make Sussex such a special place to live and work. That’s why we were proud to sponsor Seaford Karate Club as they travelled to Portugal to compete at the prestigious FSKA World Karate Championships.
This year, the Championships were held in Almada, Lisbon, bringing together 17 countries from across the world, including Italy, Ukraine, Brazil, Mexico, India and Cameroon. More than 700 students competed over three intense days of kata and kumite, each hoping to earn the title of World Champion.
And among them was a determined squad from right here in Sussex, 12 competitors and 8 supporters representing Seaford Karate Club.
Helping the Seaford Karate Club Squad Look the Part
Our contribution was simple but meaningful: we supplied the squad with team-branded performance T-shirts so they could arrive in Portugal looking united, confident, and professional. For many athletes, especially young ones, looking like a team helps them feel like a team. It builds identity, strengthens confidence, and creates the sense of belonging that is so crucial when competing on the world stage.
As a local business with strong ties across Sussex, we were delighted to help Seaford Karate Club showcase their identity and represent our community with pride.
Seaford Karate Club – A Small Team With Big Ambitions
Despite being a relatively small club compared with some of the international squads, Seaford Karate Club travelled with quiet determination and huge ambition. Karate is a demanding discipline, physically, mentally and emotionally, and the dedication shown by these athletes is truly inspiring.
Once in Almada, they joined hundreds of competitors across multiple age groups and categories, each bout bringing excitement, tension and world-class skill. Over three long days, the Seaford squad put everything they had into their performances.
And the results were nothing short of exceptional.
An Impressive Medal Haul on the World Stage
Against the backdrop of tough international competition, Seaford Karate Club returned home with:
- 4 Gold Medals
- 2 Silver Medals
- 2 Bronze Medals
Even more impressively, two of the gold medals were in kumite (sparring) and two in kata (forms), meaning Seaford produced World Champions in both major disciplines of traditional karate.
For a small club from Sussex to achieve this on a global stage is remarkable. It speaks to the quality of coaching, the commitment of the athletes, and the dedication of the families and supporters who put in countless hours behind the scenes.
Community Sport at Its Best
Grassroots sports clubs like Seaford Karate Club do more than just train athletes. They build confidence, discipline and resilience. They give young people a place to grow, learn and challenge themselves. They strengthen the community.
That’s why sponsorship matters. It allows clubs to give their members opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach, like representing their country at a world championship event.
For The Sussex Sign Company, supporting local organisations is a core part of who we are. Our business was built here, our people live here, and our community has supported us for nearly 30 years. Sponsoring Seaford Karate Club was our way of giving something back, and celebrating the spirit of excellence that Sussex is known for.
A Proud Moment for Everyone Involved
Seeing the squad wearing their branded team shirts, united, proud and ready to compete, was a special moment. But seeing them return as World Champions is something truly unforgettable.
Their success is a testament to what happens when passion meets opportunity. And we’re honoured to have played even a small role in their journey.
Looking Ahead
Seaford Karate Club now returns home with renewed confidence and international experience that will inspire their next generation of students. With a growing reputation and a world-class performance behind them, the future looks incredibly bright for this outstanding Sussex club.
As for us at The Sussex Sign Company, we will continue to support local clubs, charities and organisations wherever we can. Community is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re proud to stand alongside groups that embody determination, teamwork and excellence.
Congratulations once again to the entire Seaford Karate Club squad, athletes, coaches, families and supporters. Your achievements in Portugal have made Sussex proud.