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Meet Simon Sensei
Technical Director of
Mo-ichido England
Simon Staples began his Shotokan Karate journey in 1981 and has since built a career shaped by both tradition and innovation. From the very start, Simon had the privilege of being taught by some of the pioneering figures in the Shotokan world—mentors who laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to martial arts.
His training has taken him around the globe, including to Japan in 1990 and again in 1994, where he trained at the legendary JKA Honbu Dojo and lived at the prestigious Hoitsugan Dojo. These experiences deepened his understanding of traditional Shotokan Karate at its source.
Simon enjoyed an outstanding tournament career, competing at local, national, and international levels. Representing both himself and England, he frequently took home titles in both Kata and Kumite, often achieving the rare feat of being named Grand Champion by winning both on the same day.
Following his retirement from competitive karate, Simon began to explore the broader scope of the Shotokan system—analyzing its strengths, addressing its limitations, and seeking to enhance its effectiveness. This journey led him to cross-train in disciplines such as wrestling, boxing, kickboxing, and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, enriching his Shotokan base with a more comprehensive and realistic martial perspective.
As a teacher, Simon brings a unique and dynamic approach to instruction, backed by an extensive wealth of knowledge. He is currently the Chief Instructor of KD Combat System and The Triple S’s, and holds the rank of 7th Dan in Shotokan Karate, as well as a 1st Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu.
Simon’s latest role is as Technical Advisor to Mo-ichido England, where he continues to influence and inspire the next generation of martial artists with his experience, insight, and passion for the art.
