Our History
At Southport Shotokan Karate Club, our history is more than a collection of dates and names — it is the foundation on which every class, every technique, and every success is built. The traditions and values passed down through generations of karateka shape not only how we train but who we are as a club today.
Our roots lie in the traditional practice of Shotokan karate, one of the most widely practised and respected martial arts styles in the world. Shotokan karate was founded by Gichin Funakoshi, who brought karate from Okinawa to mainland Japan in the early 20th century. His emphasis on discipline, respect, and the continuous pursuit of self-improvement remains central to our approach.
Southport Shotokan Karate Club has been part of this tradition for many years. While the club has evolved over time — and even re-established its link with the English Shotokan Academy (ESA) in recent years — our commitment to high standards, technical excellence, and authentic Shotokan karate has remained constant.
We are proud to be affiliated with the ESA, an organisation dedicated to preserving the technical integrity and spirit of Shotokan karate as it was intended by its founders. Our instructors and students continue to learn within this lineage, ensuring that the depth of knowledge and experience gained through decades of practice is passed on to every member.
Understanding our history is not about looking back — it is about moving forward with purpose. The lessons of the past guide our training today, ensuring that every session reflects the rich tradition and high standards that define our club.
Our History
Early 1970s
With the opening of the YMCA, the club was founded by Mike Scales who is now the chief instructor at Coquitlam Shotokan Karate Club in Canada.
1973
Andy Holmes joined the club at the age of 16. He has now also moved to Canada to become chief instructor of the Torakai Martial Arts Academy.
At a similar time, Peter Collins started training and continued teaching and training at the club for the next 35 years.
1974
Alan Hughes joined the club and continues to this day to be the club's chief instructor.
1970s - 80s
Over the next few decades, many well known and highly talented karateka trained at the club including Joe Pyke, Gordon Galley, Mike Sullivan and Tony Owen to name just a few. During this time, Rob Willis also trained at the club before going on to start his own club, Southport Karate Academy.
1991
After always being a member of the Karate Union of Great Britain (KUGB), the English Shotokan Academy was formed by the late Sensei Steve Cattle. The club joined the ESA upon its formation.
1995
Sensei Steve Cattle sadly passed away.
1996
At the age of 6, current club instructor Danny Hughes began training.
2000​
The club joined the Hara Shotokan Academy (HSA) under the teachings of Sensei Ken Button.
2017
After over 40 years of calling the YMCA our home, the building was sadly closed. Our dojo had to relocate to the incredible facility at St John's Church in Ainsdale.
2024
After remaining connected with the ESA for numerous years, through club instructors Alan and Danny training as individual members, the club made the decision to return to the ESA.
Notable Guest Instructors
The below instructors have been to the club to teach. Current club instructors have also continued their karate education by travelling to train with various world-renowned instructors such as Alfie Lewis, Terry O'Neil, Wayne Otto, George Best, Katsu Tiru Jr and Bob Rhodes to name just a few.
