Sensei Simon Coope, 5th Dan

Sensei Simon Coope is the Chief Instructor and founder of Simon Coope Karate School. He opened the club in April of 2004 and has gone to lengths to teach the highest standard of karate to his students. Simon can be found teaching primarily at our Loughborough and Hinckley locations. 

Just had a few weeks with Simon's class so far and I can only compliment both him and all of the students in making me feel welcome.

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Sensei Dave Herbert, 4th Dan

Sensei Dave Herbert started in Simon’s club many years ago with his two children. Dave quickly became hooked and can now be found teaching in Coalville on Thursdays!

Our grandson attends this karate school at Coalville Leisure Centre. He thoroughly enjoys the experience and is progressing through the gradings quickly.

Sensei Luke Rollason, 3rd Dan

Sensei Luke Rollason gained his 3rd Dan black belt in 2023 and has been running the Saturday class in Braunstone prior to that. 

Excellent karate school. Very welcoming and inclusive of all people. Ages vary from young through to adult.

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Sensei Hannah Mott, 2nd Dan

Sensei Hannah Mott started in the club when she was just 4 years old, having watched her older brother train since she was born! She has represented England in the European Championships and continues to train as well as passing on her expertise to the students in Coalville. Hannah can also be found helping out in Hinckley and Loughborough regularly and acts as the club’s administrative assistant. 

A great club for all ages. very friendly and welcoming. Very patient with my young child. Good opportunities for progression.

Sensei Mark Barber, 1st Dan

Sensei Mark Barber has been a member of the club for many years and obtained his black belt, along with his wife and son, back in 2016. He runs the Broughton Astley and Ashby classes where he helps people of all ages begin their karate journey. 

My daughter loves coming to karate. Sensei Mark made her feel welcome and explained everything, putting her at ease. I loved the fact the first month was free so she really had time to make sure she enjoyed it before we committed. Overall a fantastic club that cares about its members.

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Sensei Laura Silver, 2nd Dan

Sensei David Coope, 3rd Dan

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Meet Our Karate Instructors

Meet the experienced instructors behind Simon Coope Karate School. Our team brings together decades of karate experience, competition success and a passion for helping students of all ages develop their skills and confidence.

Sensei Dave Herbert, 4th Dan

Sensei Dave Herbert, 4th Dan

Sensei Dave Herbert started in Simon’s club many years ago with his two children. Dave quickly became hooked and can now be found teaching in Coalville on Thursdays.

Sensei Luke Rollason, 4th Dan

Sensei Luke Rollason, 4th Dan

Sensei Luke Rollason is an experienced instructor who has been involved with the club for many years and teaches the Saturday class in Braunstone.

Sensei Mark Barber, 3rd Dan

Sensei Mark Barber, 3rd Dan

Sensei Mark Barber has been a member of the club for many years and obtained his black belt, along with his wife and son, back in 2016. He runs the Broughton Astley and Ashby classes where he helps people of all ages begin their karate journey.

Sensei David Coope, 3rd Dan

Sensei David Coope, 3rd Dan

Sensei David has been training at karate since he was just 4 years old. He took his 1st Dan Black belt grading in September 2003 just after his 9th birthday. He graded to 2nd Dan with Sensei Suzuki in August 2006 and confirmed it as an adult in August 2010. He took his 3rd Dan in October 2011.

David was a member of the England Karate Federation All Styles Karate Elite Squad, the official Olympic recognised England team. He was also a member of the British University Team and a member of the Wadokai England Karate Team.

He travelled to Azerbaijan on 7th February 2012 for the European Karate Championships where he came joint 14th. In 2014 he took part in the World Student Games in Montenegro and came 9th.

In May 2016 David became British National Karate Champion, winning the +84kg title.

In April 2015 David won the -84kg English National title.

In October 2014 he won the +84kg section at the Wadokai European Championships to become European Wadokai Karate Champion.

He now teaches at the Fight Class in Loughborough and is the Chief Fighting Instructor for Loughborough University.