04/06/2026
🏆 NSTA Instructor of the Year 2026 🏆
I’m incredibly proud and honoured to have been awarded Instructor of the Year at the National Student Tae Kwon-Do Awards.
There were 84 nominations for Instructor of the Year and 13 of us shortlisted, so it was amazing to be announced as the Instructor of the Year 2026.
To be recognised amongst so many outstanding university instructors across the UK and Ireland is something I never imagined when I first started teaching, and it’s an achievement that reflects far more than just my own efforts. This award belongs to every student who turns up, works hard, supports their teammates and represents our clubs with pride.
Over the past few years I’ve had the privilege of helping grow and transform University of Lancashire Tae Kwon-Do, and create Preston TAGB from the ground up. Watching all our students achieve incredible success. From National and International Champions, to University World Champions and Medalists, Northern Cup winners, Team Event champions, grading successes and personal milestones, the progress made by our students continues to inspire me every day.
From 900 Nominations from 70 Universities, myself, a few of my students and the University Of Lancashire club were shortlisted for 8 out of 14 categories, a great achievement for everyone involved in the club:
Seeing the university club grow to more than double its size, helping students develop confidence both on and off the mats, and building a strong Tae Kwon-Do community has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
A huge thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey, my instructors, fellow coaches, training partners, family, friends and, most importantly, my students. Your commitment, trust and hard work are what make achievements like this possible.
This award is a proud moment for me, but it’s also a proud moment for University of Lancashire Tae Kwon-Do and Preston TAGB. The journey continues. 👊
