Club Instructors

Instructors

Gilliland Sensei began training in judo in March 1966 during which time a small karate class was run on a saturday afternoon following judo classes in the morning.Sensei enjoyed judo, particularly the little practised side of Judo known as atemi, which augmented throws with strikes, lock and kicks, at the time Judo was considered a martial art, not as today, as largely a sport.

In competition he enjoyed many successes including British Army Champion, Southern England Champion and numerous club and area successes.Sensei taught Judo both throughout his Army career and also within other clubs where he produced many national and international champions, his previous success as a competitior helped greatly in his ability as a coach to help his students find success in their efforts in competition

Originally karate practise was basic, much of the lesson was fitness orientated with the last 15 - 20 minutes on actual techniques, which were very basic, simple punches, blocks and kicks with much repetition, when the students survived the sickener lesson which saw many drop off, the practise of karate increased in terms of time, though the techniques were simply repeated more and more, thus becoming proficient at a few basic moves which were very effective. Indeed for many years, Sensei believed that the Pinan/Heian kata were all that existed, thereby following the example, better to be good at a few, than not so great at many.

Sensei practised Goshin Do, a form of Ju Jitsu which he became very adept, the form was again basic, and centred on techniques which were very effective, as a self defence system forged by trial and combat, the emphasis was in dealing with attackers in a few seconds, as it was more likely to be attacked by more than one, putting the theory into practice frequently whilst working the doors of pubs and clubs, it was not unusual for Sensei to be seen trying kicking techniques when buying new pairs of trousers, something which the shop assistants eventually got used to.

Joining the Army in 1974, Sensei has travelled and practised many martial arts throughout the world, indeed much of Gakushuin today still retains links with the armed forces, and most of Gakushuin's instructors are or were servicemen.

Gilsenan Sensei was first introduced to Gilliland Sensei by Sensei Ginger, then a 1st Dan. In the early days, everything had to be demonstrated in detail, particularly the effectiveness of each technique,

Gilsenan Sensei enjoyed his instruction and never looked back and became indoctinated in the Gakushuin method of karate, something which he still maintains today.

Now a 3rd Dan, he teaches and trains with the boss in Ropley, and assists all students to gain understanding on the techniques and requirements during lessons.

Known to many during his career as a fighter, the effectiveness of his techniques and the determination to ensure he maintains a high standard has demonstrated that he is formidable and should never be underestimated.

He has a great sense of humour, and perhaps too good a memory about post training sessions with the boss, which hopefully will never be revealed, though he has been known to accept bribes involving large quantities of alcohol.