Novo mesto, Slovenia — The Kempo Arnis Federation (KAF) has announced the historic Spring Camp 2026, which will take place for the first time in Slovenia from March 20-22, 2026. The event will mark a milestone for the European martial arts community, bringing together Philippine martial arts traditions, modern self-defense, and mixed styles under the guidance of internationally recognized masters.
World-Class Instructors
The central figures of the three-day camp are three martial arts legends:
Avi Nardia — Founder of the KAPAP system (Krav Panim el Panim), which combines Israeli combat techniques with Philippine weapons systems. As a former instructor for Israeli Defense Forces special units and bodyguard, Nardia brings decades of experience in realistic self-defense. His expertise lies in developing practical techniques that work under stress and in dangerous situations. Nardia has traveled to over 40 countries worldwide to share his knowledge and is regarded as a bridge-builder between Eastern and Western martial arts traditions.
Gabriele Roloff — The German Grand Master holds a 10th Dan in Modern Arnis and is one of the few direct students of the legendary Professor Remy Presas, founder of Modern Arnis. After his death in 2001, she continued his work and became the leading European authority on Philippine stick fighting. Roloff is known for her precise teaching methodology and ability to make complex weapons techniques understandable. She leads the Modern Arnis Federation Germany and has instructed thousands of students in the authentic tradition of Arnis.
Gerard Gordeau — The Dutch martial artist made history as a participant in the very first UFC tournament in 1993, where he placed third. As a Kyokushin Karate master and Savate champion, Gordeau was one of the pioneers of modern Mixed Martial Arts. His fights in the early K-1 tournaments and in the UFC demonstrated the effectiveness of full-contact karate in real combat situations. With over 50 years of martial arts experience, Gordeau embodies the principles of toughness, perseverance, and practical fighting ability.
Such a combination of expertise — Israeli combat arts, Philippine weapons systems, and Japanese full-contact karate — is rarely found at European seminars and makes this event a unique opportunity for practitioners of all levels.
Program and Key Focus Areas
Spring Camp 2026 offers an intensive program covering:
- Kempo Arnis — work with traditional Philippine weapons (Escrima, sticks, knives)
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — ground fighting and control techniques
- Kyokushin Karate — full-contact techniques and development of mental fortitude
- Style integration for realistic self-defense scenarios
Special attention will be given to KAF black belt testing — a rare opportunity to receive certification under the direct supervision of federation masters. The program is adapted for participants of different skill levels: from beginners to active instructors.
Historical Significance
The choice of Slovenia to host the Spring Camp marks a new milestone in the development of the Kempo Arnis Federation, celebrating its 26th anniversary. Novo mesto, which has established itself as a center for major sporting events, becomes a new hub for the European Philippine martial arts community.
The event reflects the growing interest in Arnis and mixed self-defense systems in Eastern Europe, expanding the diversity of available disciplines for martial arts practitioners.
Practical Information
Dates: March 20-22, 2026
Location: Novo mesto, Slovenia
Contact: tina@kempoarnis.com
Website: kempoarnis.com
Organizers recommend early registration due to limited spots available for black belt testing.
The Kempo Arnis Federation continues to strengthen its international network, providing martial arts practitioners with unique opportunities to learn from world-class masters and obtain recognized certification.
