Sonny Roberts
Director - Equalities, Diversity & Inclusion
I bring over 29 years of dedication to Karate, deeply rooted in a Traditional Shotokan Karate background under the mentorship of former World Champion Sensei Aidan Trimble. This foundational training has profoundly moulded my understanding of Karate, instilling a deep appreciation for its traditional principles and honing my skills in competitive Sport Karate arenas
In addition to my training under Sensei Aidan Trimble, I've had the privilege to learn from a distinguished group of instructors, including Shiro Asano, Hirokazu Kanazawa, Ticky Donovan, Wayne Otto, and Willie Thomas. Each of these individuals has played a pivotal role in shaping my development as a Karate practitioner and coach, enriching my understanding of both the traditional and competitive aspects of the sport.
During my competitive years with the EKF National squad, I clinched 9 National Championships and as well as numerous International tournaments around the world. Since 2012, I have transitioned into coaching, notably as the Head High Performance Coach for Karate at the University of Nottingham.
Under my guidance, the University of Nottingham Karate team has secured an impressive record of 4 consecutive BUCS National Titles and earned multiple medals at the European University Championships, solidifying our reputation as a powerhouse in university-level Karate. This achievement underscores our commitment to excellence, supported by comprehensive training, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedicated support services.
Beyond Karate, I serve as a Watch Manager in the Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, overseeing recruitment, promotion, welfare, and firefighter engagement. I am also actively involved as a Regional Fire Brigades Union Representative, advocating for members' interests and contributing to organizational development initiatives.
My diverse experiences across Karate and firefighting span nearly three decades, providing me with a unique perspective and a robust skill set to drive positive change. My passion for both preserving Karate traditions and advancing the sport's competitive aspects at the University of Nottingham underscores my dedication to its growth and development on a collegiate level and beyond.
Email Sonny Roberts
Show All Directors