Introducing William

Rank: 5th Dan Black Belt

Role: Club Founder & Senior Coach

Greetings, I'm William, the senior coach at Lurgan and Tandragee Ju-Jitsu. It's been quite a journey, and I'm proud to share it with you.

I've had the privilege of running the Lurgan club for 16 years and the Tandragee club for 14 years. Additionally, I've had the rewarding experience of teaching at Tannaghmore Primary School for the past 12 years. My commitment to these clubs and the students who train there is unwavering.

My journey in Ju-Jitsu began in 1997 at Cookstown Leisure Centre under the guidance of Shihan Jim Canning, a distinguished 8th-degree black belt.

What initially drew me to Ju-Jitsu was the idea of getting in shape and meeting the requirements for my Duke of Edinburgh award. Little did I know that those first few sessions would ignite a lifelong passion within me.

Through consistent training, I achieved my black belt in 2003 and have since advanced to a 5th-degree black belt. But my pride doesn't come solely from my own accomplishments. It is the growth and achievements of my club members and dedicated coaches that truly inspire me.

In addition to my Ju-Jitsu journey, I hold a brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and actively contribute by teaching grappling sessions for the World Ju-Jitsu Federation in Ireland. I also serve as the assistant coach for Queens University Belfast BJJ club. Further, I run the Labyrinth BJJ club based in Lurgan and Portadown.

The success and dedication of my students and fellow coaches fuel my enthusiasm for martial arts. It's a privilege to see individuals grow and excel in a discipline I'm passionate about. Together, we continue to strengthen the martial arts community in our region.