Meet the Coaches
Our coaching team combines years of experience in training, competition, and teaching. We’re passionate about creating a friendly, supportive environment where every student can grow in confidence, discipline, and ability.

Chief instructor
Oliver Thornton - 5th Dan
Oliver is the Chief Instructor of Soaring Eagle Karate and brings nearly 30 years of martial arts experience to the dojo.
He holds a 5th Dan in Wado Ryu Karate and a 1st Dan in WT Taekwondo, with additional training in ju-jitsu, iaido, kickboxing, sport fencing, and HEMA. His broad background gives students a well-rounded approach to traditional and practical martial arts.
Oliver has competed and coached internationally in both kata and kumite, earning medals at WUKF European and World Championships.
Alongside his martial arts experience, Oliver has a degree in Sport Science & Physiology, is a qualified Strength & Conditioning coach, and a Sports Massage Therapist. This allows him to support students not just in technique, but in fitness, performance, and injury prevention.
He is also an award-winning coach, receiving the Leeds University Sue Jacklin Club Coach of the Year in 2016 for his work with the University of Leeds Karate Club.

Instructor
Cindy Wallace - 3rd Dan
Cindy is the Club Secretary and an instructor at Soaring Eagle Karate, bringing years of experience both on and off the mat.
After many years supporting family members in their training, she began her own martial arts journey in 2004. She went on to achieve her 3rd Dan in Wado Ryu Karate in 2018.
Alongside her role in teaching, Cindy plays a key part in the running of the club, helping to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all members.
In addition to karate, Cindy is a qualified hypnotherapist, bringing a strong understanding of mindset, confidence, and personal development into her coaching.

Instructor
Amber Brennan - 3rd Dan
Amber is an instructor at Soaring Eagle Karate, with a strong background in both competition and coaching.
She began her karate journey at university in 2013, achieving her 1st Dan in 2017 and progressing to 3rd Dan in 2022.
Amber has extensive competition experience, medalling at numerous national and international events. She has also represented GB Universities at the EUSA European Combat Games.
Alongside her competitive success, Amber is an award-winning coach, receiving the Leeds University Sue Jacklin Club Coach of the Year in 2022 for her work with the University of Leeds Karate Club.
In addition to karate, Amber is a qualified Personal Trainer and offers PT sessions at the dojo, supporting students with their fitness and performance.

Instructor
Roger Mody - 2nd Dan
Roger is an instructor at Soaring Eagle Karate, bringing over 20 years of martial arts experience.
He began his karate journey in Shukokai karate, progressing to purple belt before taking a break from training. He later returned to karate with Soaring Eagle Karate, where he continued his development and achieved his 2nd Dan in December 2023.
Roger’s journey reflects a strong commitment to training and progression, and he brings that same supportive approach to his coaching within the club.

Instructor
Emma Bateman - 2nd Dan
Emma is an instructor at Soaring Eagle Karate, with over a decade of experience in training and coaching.
She began karate at the age of 7 and has gained experience across a range of clubs and coaching styles over the past 11 years. She achieved her 1st Dan in 2019 and her 2nd Dan in 2021.
In recent years, Emma has been developing and leading her own class, building her approach as an instructor and focusing on giving students the best possible experience in their training.

Child Protection Officer
Sharon Simms
Sharon is the Child Protection Officer for Soaring Eagle Karate and is the first point of contact for any safeguarding or child protection concerns within the club.
She brings valuable experience from her role as a Scout leader, where safeguarding and supporting young people is a key part of her responsibilities.
As a parent within the club, Sharon also has a strong understanding of the importance of creating a safe, supportive environment for all members.
If you have any safeguarding concerns, you can contact Sharon directly on 07843 490571 or via email at sharonsimms76@gmail.com.



