Leeds Shotokan Karate Club

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Birth of Leeds Shotokan Karate Club

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Leeds Shotokan Karate Club has been a part of the city’s martial arts community

for more than 60 years. During that time, it has developed numerous students

who have gone on to compete for their country at both national and international

competitions. The club has consistently produced champions in both Kata and

Kumite, from local events right through to major international stages. Over the

decades, Leeds Shotokan has operated from several dojo locations across the

city, and today its main base is the 17th South West Leeds Scout headquarters.​​​

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​​​​​​​​​​​​​Sensei Ronnie Wade

Sensei Ronnie Wade, 4th Dan, served as the club’s first instructor when it was

founded. He went on to build an impressive competitive career himself,

representing his country alongside well-known karate figures such as

Terry O’Neill and Ticky Donovan. When Sensei Wade stepped down as chief

instructor of Leeds Shotokan Karate Club, the role was taken over by one

of his own students.

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Sensei Bob Rhodes

A formidable competitor in his own right, Sensei Bob Rhodes was a key member of the Leeds squad that secured the KUGB National Championship in 1973. He also represented the British All Styles team that famously triumphed over Japan to win the 1975 World Championships in Los Angeles.

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Sensei Bob Rhodes. Sensei Robert “Bob” Rhodes, 9th Dan, led the club for many years and helped shape the careers of many renowned karateka, including Caroline Quansah, Richard Backhouse, Vivian Roland, Randy Williams, Matt Price, Nick Heald and Sean Roberts.

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Although he is no longer based in Leeds, Sensei remains closely connected to the Leeds Shotokan Karate Club and still remains in contact with a lot of his students who have since retired from karate but remain good friends over the years.

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When Sensei Bob Rhodes decided to move away from Leeds, he entrusted the leadership of the club—and the position of chief instructor—to Sensei Randolph Williams, 6th Dan. 

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Although he left Leeds, he still became one of KUGB’s most senior instructors. Sensei Bob Rhodes went on to earn a distinguished reputation as a KUGB grading examiner, a member of the technical committee, and a fully qualified international referee.

Following his departure from the KUGB, he continued his dedication to karate by becoming a leading instructor and examiner within the HDKI GB with Chief Technical Director Scott Langley (7th Dan) 

 

He later moved on again after a couple of years, pursuing new directions in his teaching and involvement in the wider karate community, as his teaching has been seen as transformative, fostering a culture of respect, discipline, and continual learning. Sensei Bob Rhodes was always keen to share his knowledge and experience through seminars, classes and literature.

 

In November 2024 he was awarded 9th dan, one of the highest possible ranks in karate, is awarded only to those who have demonstrated exceptional skill, knowledge, and lifelong dedication to the art. The decision to bestow this honour upon Robert Rhodes reflects his unparalleled contributions to the discipline.

 

During the award ceremony, Rhodes gave a speech, expressing his gratitude to his mentors, peers, and students. “This recognition is not just a testament to my journey, but to everyone who has shared it with me—those who challenged, inspired, and supported me,” he said. “Karate is more than a practice; it’s a way of life that teaches us to grow not just as martial artists but as people.”

 

Beyond his technical mastery, Robert Rhodes is celebrated for his ability to inspire others. Known for his humility and kindness, he has worked tirelessly to make karate accessible to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. His influence has extended beyond his dojo to global seminars, where he has been a sought-after speaker and instructor.

 

As Robert steps into this new chapter as a 9th dan, his mission remains unchanged: to uphold the values of karate and to continue guiding others on their martial arts journeys. His students, past and present, describe him as a “living legend” whose dedication serves as a model for future generations.

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​Sensei Randy Williams

As a member of the KUGB England squad, Sensei Randy Williams achieved multiple European team gold medals and, in 1990—mirroring the success of Sensei Bob before him—played a pivotal role in the KUGB England team’s World Championship victory over Japan.

 

Throughout his competitive career, he also became a four-time KUGB Shotokan Cup individual champion and, at the age of 40, earned widespread admiration by securing the KUGB National Individual Kumite title, becoming one of the most celebrated winners in the tournament’s history.

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Following this remarkable achievement, Sensei Randy Williams chose to retire from competition and dedicate his focus to leading and developing the Leeds Shotokan Karate Club. Under his guidance, the club continued to flourish and produce many karateka, including Michael Gale, Harry Cuddy, Ethan Armstrong and Jade Stapleton-Smith.

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His passing in 2012, when he sadly lost his battle with cancer. The untimely death of Sensei Randy Williams in February 2012 gave rise to Sensei Richard Backhouse agreeing to take over the helm of running the club.

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Sensei Richard Backhouse

Richard started his study of karate at the British Karate Association, moving to the Northern Karate Association to study under Sensei Ray Wilson until he reached the grade of 1st Kyu. Richard then moved to the KUGB and Leeds Shotokan Karate Club, where he studied under Sensei Bob Rhodes for many years. After a break from training, Richard returned to Leeds Shotokan Karate Club and studied under Sensei Randolph Williams.

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Richard's approach to karate is similar to many graduates of the Leeds Shotokan Karate Club, displaying an equal balance of focus on Kihon, Kata and Kumite, underpinned by traditional teaching methods initiated by Sensei Rhodes at the club's original Tempest Road dojo.

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After the passing of Sensei Randolph Williams, one of his main focuses is converting the club into a non-profit organisation with a community spirit. Sensei Richard Backhouse continues to foster the same club ethics that are woven into the club's history as chief instructor. Leeds Shotokan Karate Club welcomes all new members to our community club to train and learn karate in the same spirit that has created so many success stories over the last 60 years.

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