About us

Whitchurch Karate Club has been successfully training students of all ages and abilities for over a decade. We are affiliated to one of the worlds most respected karate organisations, the Japan Karate Association (JKA) and are proud to offer authentic Shōtōkan karate training to all our members.

Chief instructor・Andy・アンディ
Andy began his karate journey in 1995, after being persuaded to join a local dojo by a close friend. What started as a reluctant first session quickly grew into a lifelong passion and way of life.

With over 30 years of experience in Shōtōkan Karate, Andy has developed a deep well of knowledge and insight. His journey has also included a brief period of Aikido training, which provided valuable perspectives and complementary techniques from another martial art.

Andy considers karate a cornerstone of his well-being — keeping him fit both mentally and physically. He values its ability to help manage the everyday stresses of life and is a strong advocate for its long-term benefits to health, focus, and resilience.

Training Coach・Tim・ティム
Tim began his karate journey in 2015 at the age of 50, initially joining a local JKA Shōtōkan club alongside his family. Although he joined somewhat reluctantly — primarily to support his two daughters and help them develop self-defence skills — he quickly found himself captivated by the discipline and spirit of karate.

The structured approach to learning, with each grade building upon the last, suited Tim’s methodical mindset. Despite a delay in grading due to the pandemic, he achieved his 1st Dan black belt in May 2022. Soon after, he qualified as a coach and began competing in several events.

Tim has a particular interest in the ethos and culture of karate, especially the opportunities it offers for lifelong learning and personal growth.

Training Coach・David・デイヴィッド
David’s martial arts journey began in the late 1980s during his school years, inspired by the global influence of Bruce Lee and The Karate Kid. He first trained in Lau Gar Kung Fu, laying the foundation for a lifelong interest in martial arts.

It wasn’t until his early 30s, while living in Germany, that his passion for karate developed. Training regularly in Goju-Ryu became a valuable way to manage the pressures of a demanding professional life.

After returning to the UK, David’s commitment to karate deepened when he joined a local JKA club to train alongside his two sons. He went on to earn his black belt under JKA Chief Instructor, Oishi Takeshi.

David is passionate about teaching, finds joy in the finer details of technique, and relishes every opportunity to share his knowledge with others.

Certification
All our club instructors are JKA licensed and hold current coaching qualifications, Enhanced DBS, First Aid and Child Protection certificates.