The Frank Smith Fighting Spirit Award is given to the competitor that has demonstrated karate in the true spirit of budo. It is not necessarily given to the best competitor but is also awarded for extrodinary displays of sportsmanship and spirit.
The winner is selected by the Nikkei Karate Committee. A trophy is awarded and the winner recognized at the subsequent years event. Winners need not be selected every year, only if a competitor displays the necessary qualifications.
The 2009 award goes to:
Black Belt Joey Abadilla
Joey Abadilla consistently performs well at the Nikkei Games. He is a formidable competitor in both kata and kumite. He is an excellent sportman and an excellent example of budo in action. In addition, he is Sensei Kevin Suzuki's Uke for the Nikkei Karate demonstration and helps with the tournament every year.
The Nikkei Karate Committee is honored to bestow the 2009 award to Joey Abadilla.
Joey trains in Shito Ryu under the Genbu Kai Organization in Riverside.
Congratulations Joey !
