Our Coaches & Committee
Train with the Best
Oliver Thornton - 5th Dan
Chief Instructor / Chair Person
Oliver is the Chief Instructor of Soaring Eagle Karate. He has nearly 30 years martial arts experience, achieving 5th Dan in Wado Ryu Karate and 1st Dan in WT Taekwondo, as well as training in ju-jitsu, iaido, kickboxing, sport fencing and HEMA. Oliver also has experience in competing and coaching internationally in both kata and kumite, with WUKF European and World medals won. He also has a degree in sport science & physiology, is a qualified strength & conditioning coach and a sports massage therapist. Oliver has won awards for his coaching, having been awarded the Leeds University Sue Jacklin Club Coach of the Year 2016 for his work with the University of Leeds Karate Club.
Cindy Wallace - 3rd Dan
Instructor / Club Secretary
Cindy is the club secretary as well as an instructor with Soaring Eagle Karate. She has spent many a year watching family members train, until taking the plunge to start training herself in 2004. She achieved her 3rd Dan in Wado Ryu Karate in 2018. As well as teaching karate, Cindy is also a qualified hypnotherapist.
Amber Brennan - 3rd Dan
Instructor
Amber began her karate journey at university in 2013, gaining her 1st dan in 2017, and achieving her 3rd Dan in 2022. Amber has extensive competition experience, medalling at numerous national and international events, as well as representing GB Universities at the EUSA European Combat Games. Amber is also 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.
Amber is also a qualified Personal Trainer and can offer PT sessions at the dojo.
Sharon Simms
Child Protection Officer
Sharon is our current Child Protection Officer, and is the first port of call for any safeguarding or child protection issues in the club. She also has experience in the Scouts, where she is also a leader. Her daughter is also a member of the club, and is currently a 2nd Dan.
If you have any safeguarding concerns, please feel free to contact Sharon on 07843 490571, or by email at sharonsimms76@gmail.com
