Loek Hollander

Loek Hollander was born on 20 May 1938 in the Netherlands and passed away on 16 February 2020. 10th Dan in Kyokushin Karate and one of the most important pioneers of the style outside Japan. He began training in the 1950s and became a direct student of Mas Oyama, founder of Kyokushin. Hollander was among the very first non-Japanese practitioners to reach the highest levels of the style, earning his 10th Dan through decades of dedication to training, teaching and organisation. He played a crucial role in establishing Kyokushin Karate across Europe - founding organisations, running seminars and competitions, and building the infrastructure that allowed the style to grow across the continent. As a teacher and mentor he influenced generations of Dutch and European karatekas. His legacy as one of Oyama's most loyal and impactful Western students remains central to the history of Kyokushin in Europe.