Our Current Black Belt Students
Welcome to our page showcasing our dedicated Black Belt students. Achieving a Black Belt is a recognized symbol of expertise in martial arts, a journey that typically requires 4 to 5 years of focused training and perseverance. Why does it take so long? To reach this level, students must demonstrate technical proficiency, a strong work ethic, and excellent physical conditioning. Not everyone completes the journey, but those who do embody a remarkable dedication to their discipline.
The Black Belt system begins with the Shodan (1st Dan) rank, followed by higher Dan grades, such as Nidan (2nd Dan), Sandan (3rd Dan), Yondan (4th Dan), and beyond. Achieving 1st Dan is only the beginning of a lifelong path in the martial arts, one that grows and evolves with each level and stage of maturity in the practice.
Sensei Fred Bateman
Sensei Bateman has a number of Dan grades, which are Roku Dan (6th Dan) in Anshin Ryu & Yon Dan (4th Dan) in Matayoshi Kobudo, and is the Chief Instructor for Kodokan Martial Arts, teaching Anshin Ryu Karate, as well as Matayoshi Kobudo Kodokan. More information about him can be found on other pages of the website.
Sensei Beckie Challans
Sensei Beckie came to us back when she was just six years old, and we have seen her grow into an excellent martial artist in both Karate and Kobudo. She is a valuable member of our team, helps in classes, and teaches regularly, whipping the students into shape. She holds a Shodan (1st Dan) in both Karate and Kobudo.
Shidoin Rob Challans
Rob Challans is a very experienced Shidoin (assistant instructor) in Matayoshi Kobudo. His help and guidance is extremely appreciated by other Sensei and students. He now takes classes as part of his training to become a future Sensei in Matayoshi Kobudo. He is also very well respected by the head of MKKI, Sensei Franco Sanguinetti.
Shidoin Justin Kotzes
Justin Kotze came to us back in 2002 from Wing Kung a Kung Fu system that he studied in South Africa. Since then he has had a break in training while qualifying as a PhD in Criminology. He has now returned to his karate training and recently passed his Nidan (2nd Dan) test in 2024. At present Justin San wants to concentrate on his training and feels he is not ready to become Sensei. He still has an excellent technical ability and work ethic. He is also a good fighter who is not afraid of getting stuck in!
Shidoin Ian Burnage
Ian San has just recently been promoted to Shidoin in MKKI, and his learning how to become an instructor for the Kobudo school. He is a valuable member of class and helps other students as much as possible. We hope that he develops into an excellent instructor.
Former Black Belt Students
The students listed below are those who have achieved Dan grades but have since moved on to new pursuits. This is common, especially among younger students, as priorities shift toward academic goals, other sports, and social activities. We celebrate their achievements and dedication during their time with us and wish them the best in their new endeavors
Chris Bateman
Stuart Bateman
Michael Dean
Beccie Johnson
Stephinie Howey
Peter Shepperson
Richard Downs
Marc Faux