Why did you start martial arts?
I was boxing at the time and my friend was doing Judo and he talked me into it. He kept showing me pictures of Mr Suzuki doing techniques in Judo Magazine. We went along and trained one night which I didn’t really enjoy but then the Japanese did a demo and I saw what it was really like and I was hooked.
What do you think is the greatest benefit they offer?
It depends. For myself I’ve met loads of friends, travelled all over the world, and it’s kept me fit. Nothing bad I can say about it really.
What is your greatest achievement?
I suppose it was coaching the British team to win the world championships five times in succession. I was successful as a competitor until I smashed my knee which stopped me competing and then all the focus went on that.
What’s the worst injury you’ve suffered?
I ripped the Cruciate ligament and it stopped my competition career earlier than I would have done which I why I went into coaching so much.
Can martial arts be a guiding light for society?
Yes definitely. The discipline and etiquette are part of it.
What’s your favourite technique?
It was always kicking and sweeping, a bit of everything really. The thing I did like about Karate was that in fighting I didn’t just have to stick to one technique.
What’s your favourite pattern?
The one I like to watch is Unsu. Nijushiho and Seipai are the ones I like to do. Unsu is for younger people because of the jump. One is Shotokan one is Shitoryu.
What’s the funniest moment you can think of?
I can’t even think. Nothing really stands out. In do have loads of good memories.
Where would you like to see martial arts in 25 years?
I’d definitely like to see karate in the Olympics. I’d like to see it anywhere to tell the truth. That would make me about 85.
How would you like to be remembered?
For inventing good competition techniques and delivering them.
Matthew Sylvester 
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