ABOUT | hadenshotokankarate

ABOUT HADEN

H.S.K.C is situated in Halesowen, West Midlands. Classes are every Monday and Friday at Earls High School. Taught by Sensei Steve 4th Dan and Senpai Mel 2nd Dan, They are keen to pass on the knowledge and experience gained from their learning with the incredible Shihan Cummins.

This family friendly club caters for all, with classes open to adults and children of all ages and grades. Please contact us and let us know what your requirements are or come along for a free lesson and take part to see how enjoyable and invigorating karate can really be!

Haden is affiliated to the NAKMAS National Governing Body (The National Association of Karate and Martial Arts Schools). NAKMAS provides insurance for every student and instructor. Instructors are regularly enhanced CRB checked before being issued with a license.

Sensei Steve continues to train weekly with Sensei Austin Birks, 6th Dan.

He also attends courses with many other top practitioners (such as Sensei Katsu Tiru Jr, Sensei John Johnston and Sensei George Best) to further his knowledge.

As well as Sensei Steve, the class is assisted by Senpai Mel, a 2nd Dan black belt with many years of training experience. With multiple other able students to assist there will always be someone there to help and encourage you on your journey. You will be encouraged to learn at your own pace, with patience and understanding at the forefront of the training environment.

MEET THE SENSEI'S

CHIEF INSTRUCTOR, GRADING EXAMINER -

Steve O'Reilly, 4th Dan

Sensei Steve O'Reilly has trained in karate for many years, predominately under the late Shihan Cyril Cummins (8th Dan). Steve achieved his 1st Dan in 2009, and recently received his 3rd Dan (Dec 2016).

He has participated in regional and national championships in both kata and kumite with some success. He has a wide range of knowledge and is still training with enthusiasm to learn more and continue to pass this on to his students.

INSTRUCTOR,

CLUB SECRETARY -

Mel O'Reilly, 2nd Dan

Senpai Mel O'Reilly, child of Sensei Steve began training at age 8 and achieved Shodan in 2016. She began as an assistant instructor when the club opened but has since become a fully licensed Instructor and examiner. Mel often supervises beginners and lower grades as well as organising social media, competition entries and social events.

In 2023 Mel began training an ICO World Champion in Team Kata after competing for only 6 months.

ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR, WELFARE OFFICER -

Becky Jennings, 1st Dan

Becky started with Haden SKC shortly after the club opened. She steadily moved up the ranks until in 2022 she achieved her Shodan and became our first "home grown" adult black belt.

Becky's commitment to the club lead her to become the welfare officer and an assistant instructor.

In 2023 alongside Mel, Becky also became a World Champion in Team Kata.