Kokoro Shotokan Karate

The Old Library Sports and Community Centre, Singleton Road, Splott, Cardiff, CF24 2ET .

Book a FREE Trial Lesson

Tel: 07855472544

Chief Instructor 
Sensei Paul Cooper 5th Dan

With over forty years of experience in Shotokan Karate, I am a dedicated instructor passionate about guiding students  of all ages on their journey to confidence, discipline and physical mastery initially inspired by Sensei Chico Mbakwe, with whom I started my journey with in the 1980’s, achieving Shodan (black belt) in 1987, under Hanshi Shiro Asano.

In 2016, I met Sensei Tony Conroy, whose profound influence on my karate has been invaluable. His unwavering support enabled the establishment of our club in 2017, and his guidance has been instrumental in both my own personal development and the growth of the club.

I am committed to helping all our students to grow, not just as a karateka, but as people, with a focus on perseverance I believe karate is a lifelong path to becoming a better version of yourself.

Senior Instructor 
Sensei Martin Hall 5th Dan

In 2023, I attained my 5th Dan in Shotokan karate under Sensei Peter Manning (TSKA 8th Dan), with whom the club has a strong connection. 

This significant milestone marked a lifetime of karate study that goes back to 1976.  I have also studied other martial arts to expand my foundation, achieving a 1st Dan in Tae-kwon-do in 2013 and more recently studying Judo. 

Before joining Kokoro I held the position of a WTKO GB & Ireland Kyu Grading examiner after passing the written examination, allowing me to guide students through their grading process.

While I appreciate all aspects of karate, my focus in recent years has been on practical close-quarters combat, particularly kata bunkai combative systems. By analysing traditional forms, I aim to refine their effectiveness in real-world self defence scenarios, bridging the gap between classical techniques and modern applications.

Instructor
Sensei Mike Saunders 3rd Dan

I began my Karate journey in 1990, training under the now Shihan Wayne Mortimer in the Kyokushin style. After years of dedication, I earned my Shodan in 1996 and continued training in Kyokushin for the next decade.

I have a background in tournament karate and enjoyed competing at a national level representing the Jitsu Kai in Wales.

As life evolved, I stepped away to focus on my career and raising my children.

Years later, I reignited my passion for Karate under Sensei Paul Cooper, transitioning to the Shotokan style. With renewed determination, I achieved my 2nd Dan in 2016 and continued to refine my skills. Most recently, in 2023, I earned my 3rd Dan, marking yet another milestone in my journey. Karate has been an integral part of my life, shaping my discipline and perseverance while constantly challenging me to grow.

Assistant Instructor
Sempai Matt Davenport 1st Dan
My karate journey began when I was 10 at my local dojo. I wasn’t an especially sporty child, but karate engaged me both physically and mentally. Unfortunately, the local dojo closed abruptly and I stopped training, never thinking that I would wear my Gi again.
Karate then came back into my life 20 years later, at a time where I lacked discipline, order and motivation. Rejuvenating my karate journey has opened up a wealth of opportunities. It has allowed me to take control of my mind and my body – culminating in me achieving my black belt in November 2023 under Sensei Paul Cooper. My karate journey shows that it’s never to late to achieve your goals. Oss!
Tigers Coach
Sempai Tracy Cooper 1st Dan

I started training Karate in 2012 to support my husband and quickly discovered a passion for the martial art. Despite facing challenges, I persevered and found great pride in earning each new belt. Now, as the Tigers coach at Kokoro, I am dedicated to helping children grow in skill and confidence. My goal is to create a fun, engaging, and supportive environment where young students can develop discipline, strength, and self-belief. I strive to be a dynamic and passionate instructor, ensuring every child feels encouraged and motivated to reach their full potential. I focus on making their learning experience both enjoyable and rewarding. Watching them progress and gain confidence is the most fulfilling part of my journey as a coach.

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Useful Links
Kokoro Shotokan Karate
  • The Old Library Sports and Community Centre
  • Singleton Road
  • Splott
  • Cardiff
  • CF24 2ET
  • 07855472544
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