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Sensei Valman – 7th Dan

Sensei Valman began his martial arts journey in 1977 at the Chingford Judo Club, affiliated with the British Judo Association (BJA). At the age of 14, he witnessed a powerful demonstration by the legendary Enoeda Sensei, which inspired him to transition into Karate and join the Karate Union of Great Britain (KUGB). His early training took place at Marshall Street, the Oasis Sports Centre, and Seymour Leisure Centre in London under the guidance of Enoeda Sensei, Ohta Sensei, and many other esteemed instructors from the KUGB and Japan Karate Association (JKA).

Throughout his career, Sensei Valman travelled extensively across the UK, training with various clubs and instructors to deepen his understanding of the art. He trained at notable dojos such as the Red Triangle in Liverpool and with Kawasoe Sensei in Shepherd’s Bush. His pursuit of excellence took him around the world, training under world-renowned masters including Yamazaki Sensei, Kanazawa Sensei, T. Okuyama Sensei, Kagawa Sensei, and many others.

In addition to Karate, Sensei has explored multiple martial arts disciplines. He holds Dan grades in Shotokai Karate and Judo, and has extensively studied Jujitsu, Kempo, and other Karate systems. His well-rounded expertise has led him to teach in top clubs across the UK, Europe, and internationally.

Sensei Valman began teaching full-time in 2001 and has since become a dedicated instructor, known for his passion, depth of knowledge, and commitment to martial arts education. In 2017, he was awarded his 6th Dan by a senior panel of instructors, with certification signed by Hanshi Jo Biggs. In 2024, he was promoted to 7th Dan by the World Kobudo Association, in recognition of his lifelong dedication to training, international teaching, and his ongoing work with children and adults in specialist schools.