In 1997 he became one of the original 5 CKJK Karateka to be awarded 1st Dan. As one of the highest grades in the club, he was an assistant to Robert Bridle, had spent much time teaching in the Dojo, and was already regarded as a competent and enthusiastic Instructor.
In 1999 he was awarded 2nd Dan and in 2001, at the age of 27, attained 3rd Dan and the title of Sensei.
When Robert Bridle left the organisation in 2003, Dave Jones was appointed Chief Instructor. The coaching duties were divided between the remaining Sensei’s, including Roger, each worked extremely hard to maintain the high standard and further develop the organisation.
At this time Roger attained one of the first nationally recognised Karate coaching awards.
In 2008 Roger was awarded the honorary grade of 4th Dan and in 2012 was presented with an award from the British Budo Federation for outstanding dedication to Karate and remarkable coaching capability. This followed several years of being invited as a guest Instructor to the BBF annual seminar and on-going involvement with the Shin-Gi-Tai Aikido Association.
In 2015, 30 years after starting Karate and with 20 years of continuous coaching experience, Roger was appointed CKJK Chief Instructor and awarded the rank of 5th Dan and title of Shihan (Master).
Roger is a firm believer in leading by example and strives to maintain the highest personal standard of Karate. He is well respected throughout the Martial Arts community for his dedication, knowledge, and ability. He believes that Karate is a ‘living art’ and works to develop new techniques and approaches as well as maintaining traditional form.
Under his leadership, and with the support of the other Instructors, Roger intends to maintain the high standards already set by CKJK, develop many more great Karateka, and continue with the promotion and development of the art.