Joe Hicks, chief instructor of Shinsei Karate Kai in Worksop, has returned from Timisoara, Romania, where he represented England at the European Karate Championship and earned a bronze medal in the team kumite event. The tournament marked the culmination of a year-long personal challenge for Joe, who has trained every single day since the start of the year. The English Karate Alliance sent a 34-strong team of athletes, supported by coaches and staff, finishing fourth overall against ten competing nations. For Joe, the championship was both a personal and professional milestone, representing England internationally for the first time. Joe began practising martial arts 23 years ago, starting karate at 13 after being bullied. Since then, martial arts have become central to his life, with karate remaining his primary discipline alongside studies in boxing, Muay Thai, Ninjitsu and Judo. Teaching is what he finds most rewarding – watching students grow in skill and confidence.
After moving to Worksop with his children in 2021, Joe founded Shinsei Karate Kai in June 2022. The name Shinsei, meaning ‘new life’, reflects his goal of bringing fresh energy to traditional karate. The dojo, which trains at Carlton-in-Lindrick Civic Centre and The Crossing Church on Newcastle Street, welcomes students from beginners to advanced level, including his eldest son, who is preparing for his black belt. Community involvement has been central to Shinsei Karate Kai’s ethos. Earlier this year, Joe helped lead a 12-hour karate challenge with other instructors to raise funds for a defibrillator, as well as demonstrations to inspire new members. Preparation for the European Championships included national training sessions, multiple competitions and international squad practices. In Romania, Joe competed in both individual and team kumite events. Although he lost early in the individual rounds – to the eventual gold and silver
medallists – he and teammates Abdi Nuur, Mason Jones and Joe Hackney fought through to secure bronze in the team category. “It was equal parts pride, pressure and responsibility,” Joe said. “Representing England on the international stage was an incredible honour.” He also praised his fellow competitors, including England athlete Joe Pastore, who delivered a stunning Sanbon kumite win with three clean Ippons in under 30 seconds.
For Joe, the bronze medal represents both achievement and motivation. “There were fighters who outclassed
me because of their experience,” he admitted. “But that’s made me even more determined. It’s my first year dedicating myself fully to competition, and I’ve learned so much already.” That determination now fuels his plans
or Shinsei Karate Kai. He intends to introduce regular kumite sessions to develop students’ competitive ability
and is preparing for the EKA National Championship in November, where he hopes both he and his students
will earn further success. Looking ahead, Joe aims to continue teaching traditional Budo principles while promoting healthy competition and personal growth. His long-term ambition is to open a full-time training facility in Worksop, expanding opportunities for students to train at a higher level. The dojo is also preparing for its winter seminar, featuring seventh Dans Bob Hague and Ted Clare, alongside Budo Mindset magazine editor Fran Charlton.
Following the success of this summer’s seminar, the event promises to be another highlight for the club. Those interested in joining Shinsei Karate Kai can email senshinryuworksop@outlook.com or book a free taster session at getintomartialarts.com by searching ‘Worksop Karate’.