Deborah Black

Deborah began her karate journey at school in the mid-1990s, initially introduced through a self-defence class. What started as curiosity quickly developed into a genuine passion. After a break during her university years, she returned to training in 2008 and has continued ever since, building a consistent and committed presence within the dojo.
Over the years, Deborah has progressed to JKA Nidan (2nd Dan), achieving her most recent grading at the Japan Karate Association World Federation Spring Course in Windsor under senior JKA instructors. Her karate journey has been shaped not only by technical development, but by resilience, persistence, and a deep connection to the values of traditional Shotokan karate.
In 2014, Deborah was jointly awarded the Bill Denny Memorial Trophy, recognising the spirit, attitude, and commitment she brings to training — qualities that continue to define her approach today.

Deborah is a qualified SKGB Level 2 Coach, having completed a comprehensive development pathway including safeguarding, first aid, and assessed coaching practice.
Within the club, she plays a key role as:
• Coach
• Guardian Girls Self-Defence Instructor
• Merchandise Co-ordinator
• Stand-in Deputy Child Wellbeing & Protection Officer, deputising for the club’s CW&P Officers when required
She has also played an important role in supporting the development of the club’s Ladies Only Class, helping create an environment where women can begin or continue their karate journey with confidence.
Her coaching style reflects her own journey — supportive, structured, and grounded in helping individuals grow at their own pace while building confidence and resilience. Her involvement in safeguarding and wellbeing further reinforces the safe, supportive environment the club prides itself on.

Deborah has become a leading voice within the club — and increasingly beyond — in improving the experience of women and girls in karate.
She has:
• Led open, constructive discussions around barriers faced by female practitioners
• Gathered feedback directly from members to inform meaningful change
• Helped implement practical, inclusive solutions within the club environment
• Worked with suppliers to influence the development of more suitable training options for female members
• Contributed to wider conversations around participation, confidence, and inclusion
Her work has supported a 100% positive, club-wide response, reinforcing an environment where everyone feels respected, supported, and able to train with confidence.
This contribution has also been recognised externally. Deborah was invited to attend the opening of “Stronger Than We Realise: Martial Arts and Recovery from Gender-Based Violence” at the Royal Society of Edinburgh, reflecting her engagement with wider research and discussion around the role martial arts can play in empowerment and recovery.
She has also completed WKF Guardian Girls Instructor training, further strengthening her ability to deliver practical, empowering self-protection education.

For Deborah, karate is far more than physical training.
It is:
• A source of friendship and community
• A foundation for physical and mental wellbeing
• A space for personal challenge and growth
• A release from the pressures of everyday life
Her approach prioritises:
1. Core Karate Practice
2. Self-Protection
3. Competition / Sport
She believes that when practiced in the right environment, karate provides a powerful platform for confidence, resilience, and personal development — values she actively brings into her coaching.

Deborah’s involvement in karate extends beyond the dojo floor. She shares her karate journey with her niece, Katie, reflecting the strong family and community values at the heart of the club.
This sense of connection — across families, generations, and friendships — is something Deborah both values deeply and actively contributes to within the club environment.

Outside the dojo, Deborah is a highly experienced Employment Law Solicitor, with over 20 years specialising in employment tribunal litigation. She has recently completed the Faculty of Advocates entrance examinations and is progressing towards becoming an Advocate.
This professional background underpins her approach within the dojo — particularly in areas of safeguarding, communication, and supporting individuals with confidence and clarity.