Guardian Girls Self‑Defence Course Successfully Launched at Brothock Shotokan Karate Club

Brothock Shotokan Karate Club was delighted to host its first Guardian Girls Self‑Defence Course, between 23 May and 30 June 2026, welcoming around 25 women to our Arbroath dojo for a four‑week programme focused on confidence, awareness and practical self‑protection.

Guardian Girls is an internationally recognised initiative designed specifically for women aged 14 and over. Rather than teaching karate techniques or competitive skills, the programme equips participants with practical strategies that can help them recognise, avoid and respond to situations that may threaten their personal safety.

Bringing International Experience to Angus

The course was led by Deborah Black, one of Brothock Shotokan Karate Club’s instructors and Scotland’s only qualified Guardian Girls instructor.

Debs is a Japan Karate Association 2nd Dan Black Belt, a Scottish Karate Governing Body‑qualified coach and Guardian Girls self‑defence instructor. Alongside her martial arts experience, she is a senior lawyer and is currently studying to become an Advocate, bringing together professionalism, compassion and practical knowledge that perfectly complements the Guardian Girls philosophy.

In 2025, Debs travelled to Riga, Latvia, as Scotland’s sole representative on the Guardian Girls Instructor Programme, training alongside instructors from across Europe. The knowledge and experience gained there is now being delivered here in Angus through Brothock Shotokan Karate Club.

More Than Self‑Defence

Across the four sessions, participants explored a range of topics including:

• Situational awareness and prevention
• Personal boundaries and assertive communication
• Building confidence and positive posture
• Understanding stress responses
• Practical escape and protection skills
• Applying techniques in realistic everyday scenarios

Every session was delivered in a welcoming, supportive environment where learning could be adapted to suit different abilities, fitness levels and personal circumstances.

The aim was never simply to teach techniques, but to help participants make informed decisions, trust their instincts and leave with greater confidence in themselves.

A Positive Start

One of the most rewarding aspects of the course was the atmosphere created by the group. Throughout the programme there was genuine encouragement, mutual support and plenty of laughter alongside serious learning.

The enthusiasm shown by everyone involved demonstrated exactly what Guardian Girls is about—empowering women through knowledge, confidence and practical skills in an inclusive environment.

Brothock Shotokan Karate Club is proud to play its part in delivering this internationally recognised initiative within our local community.