The Team Behind Shobu Kai

The Coaching Team

  • sensei sutherland glasgow karate

    SENSEI ADAM SUTHERLAND

    4TH DAN // CO-FOUNDER & HEAD COACH // LEVEL 3 COACH

    Adam Sutherland has dedicated over 28 years to the study of karate, beginning his training at just 7 years old.

    With a lifelong background in Traditional Japanese Shotokan Karate and competitive performance, he brings a depth of technical knowledge and experience that shapes the high standards of coaching within the academy.

    A highly experienced competitor and athlete coach, Adam specialises in kata performance, technical precision, and traditional karate development, while also possessing extensive knowledge and skill within kumite.

    Known for his detail-oriented coaching style and deep understanding of movement, he is passionate about helping students refine not only their technique, but their mindset, discipline, and belief in their own potential.

    As both a coach and role model within the academy, Adam has a strong impact on many of the boys and young men training at Shobu Kai, leading by example through hard work, consistency, humility, and high standards.

    At the heart of his coaching is a simple belief: everyone has greatness within them — and karate can help unlock it.

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    🥋 Started Karate At Age 7

    🎓 4th Dan Black Belt

    🥇 Specialist In Kata, Technical Precision & Athlete Development

    🥊 Highly Skilled In Both Kata & Kumite

    🌍 International Medalist Representing JKS Scotland

    🧠 Detail-Oriented Coaching With A Strong Focus On Discipline & Potential Development

  • karate instructor glasgow

    SENSEI KATHRYN VERONI

    2ND DAN // CO-FOUNDER & CEO // LEVEL 2 COACH

    Kathryn Veroni founded Shobu Kai Karate Academy with a vision to create more than just a place to learn karate.

    Her mission is to help her students build confidence, discipline, resilience, and self-belief through structured martial arts training that positively impacts life beyond the dojo.

    Unlike many lifelong martial artists, Kathryn began karate as an adult. What started as a personal challenge quickly became a complete transformation — shaping not only her mindset and confidence, but the direction of her life.

    That experience now forms the foundation of the academy’s philosophy and coaching approach.

    Alongside leading the academy, Kathryn continues to train and compete internationally representing Scotland, combining the principles of Traditional Japanese Shotokan Karate with modern athlete development and performance coaching.

    At the heart of her teaching is a simple belief: karate should help people become stronger in life, not just on the mats.

    _

    🥋 Started Karate in 2019

    🥇 Specialises in Kata Performance & Athlete Development

    🌍 8 International Medals Representing JKS Scotland

    🇯🇵 Junior Kata Coach for JKS Scotland National Team

    🧠 Passionate About Mindset, Confidence & Personal Transformation

    📈 Helping Students Grow Stronger Both On & Off The Mats

Support Team

  • LINDA MULDOON

    CHILD PROTECTION & WELFARE OFFICER

    Linda has been appointed as Shobu Kai Karate Academy’s Child Protection & Welfare Officer (CPO), a key safeguarding role required within recognised sport organisations.

    Having completed specialist child protection and welfare training, Linda helps ensure the academy continues to operate in line with the standards and best practices set by Sport Scotland and Karate Scotland.

    This role supports the creation of a safe, professional, and supportive environment for all students and families within the academy.

  • KATHRYN VERONI

    MENTAL HEALTH & WELLBEING AMBASSADOR

    As part of the academy’s commitment to supporting the wellbeing of its students, Kathryn is currently undertaking a TQUK Level 2 qualification in Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health.

    Kathryn recognises the importance of fostering positive mental health — particularly for children, teenagers, and developing athletes — and believes martial arts can play a powerful role in building confidence, emotional resilience, self-belief, and healthy coping skills within a supportive environment.

    At Shobu Kai Karate Academy, personal development and wellbeing are valued just as highly as physical performance.