Congleton (Cheshire) Aikido Club

Simon McAsey

Simon began his Aikido training in 1981. During the following years, he has had the opportunity to study with a number of eminent teachers; the late Seigo Yamaguichi Sensei, the present Aikido Doshu (Moriteru Ueshiba), Seishiro Endo Sensei and Takeshi Yamashima Sensei. Simon has also trained in Japan and Europe, but has mostly lived and practiced in the North West of England. He continues to study conscientiously to deepen his perception of the way of Aiki.

As well as being the chief instructor at Congleton Dojo, Simon is also a coach at 'Wa Go Kan' Dojo, Manchester, and is a qualified British Aikido Board coach.

David Yates

David started practising Aikido In August 1973 under Chiba Sensei with the Aikikai of Great Britain. He was promoted to first Dan in April 1984. David currently holds the rank of 5th Dan and is a Shidoin with the British Aikido Federation. David currently trains with the BAF under Kanetsuka Sensei and travels every year to Tokyo to train at the Hombu Dojo. He has trained regularly with the current Doshu and the previous Doshu, together with all the senior instructors at the Hombu Dojo. David has trained extensively in the UK, Europe and the USA.

David is currently the Vice-Chairman of the BAF and their representative to the British Aikido Board. He is a BAB recognised Senior Coach and coach tutor. David has also trained in Kendo and Iaido.

Mark Nicoll

Mark began his Aikido journey in January 2003. Since then he has attended many courses, including Takeshi Yamashima Sensei, Mimuro Atsush Sensei and every year, the visiting instructors at the B.A.F. Summer School which include Sensei Kobayashi, Sensei Kanazawa and Sensei Sugawara, to name but a few. Mark has attained Shodan (1st Dan) and is a qualified British Aikido Board Coach who is also qualified to teach children.

Mark currently teaches the Beginners class on a Thursday 6.00-7.00pm