Paul Selby – Director & Chief Instructor

Paul’s karate journey is a deeply personal one that began in 1994 at the age of 11. After a hiatus, Paul reignited his passion for karate as an adult, training alongside his son Joseph and father-in-law Ray. This return to karate marked a turning point in Paul’s life, sparking a deep commitment to martial arts and a desire to share his knowledge.

By December 2011, Paul’s proficiency and dedication were recognised, earning him the title of Assistant Instructor. In this role, he worked closely with the Chief Instructor, guiding and supporting students. His growth continued, and by September 2012, Paul achieved the rank of Sensei. This respected title reflects his mastery of the art and ability to lead. In July 2013, Paul founded Black Scorpion Karate with support from his students and the Cobra Martial Arts Association (CMAA). Since then, Paul has become the heart and soul of Black Scorpion Karate.

Qualifications and Achievements:

  • Yondan (4th Dan) Black Belt
  • Qualified Instructor
  • First Aid Trained
  • Child Protection & Safeguarding Certified
  • Enhanced DBS Checked
  • Local Authority Accredited Club
  • Registered Black Belt on the National Black Belt Register
  • Validated Children’s Passport to Learning Destination Provider

Paul leads from the front, teaching the majority of classes at Black Scorpion Karate CIC. His week is packed, often leading up to four classes a day, six days a week. He teaches one-to-one sessions, conducts special classes for home-educated students, and collaborates with Sensei Sally to train the competition squad. His dedication to his students goes beyond the dojo walls—Paul is also the driving force behind the successful HAF holiday club, which provides a safe and engaging environment for children during school breaks.

Beyond karate, Paul serves the community as a Special Constable for the Police, using his skills to protect and support those around him. His commitment to service and the community recently earned him a nomination for Unpaid Carer of The Year, demonstrating his profound positive impact in and out of the dojo.

Paul’s passion for making karate accessible is deeply personal. Having faced financial challenges that cut his karate training short as a child, he is determined to ensure that no one else faces the same barriers. His commitment to inclusivity led to the transformation of Black Scorpion Karate into a Community Interest Company (CIC), embedding community support into the heart of the club’s mission.

Paul’s guiding motto, “Believe it. Achieve it,” Is more than just words-it’s a philosophy that inspires every aspect of Black Scorpion Karate. This belief in the potential of every individual has become a guiding principle for the entire Black Scorpion Karate community, fostering a culture of determination, perseverance, and support. It’s a belief that empowers students to surpass their limits and embrace personal growth.

“As we move forward as a CIC, we carry with us the belief that everyone has the potential to achieve great things, and it’s our role to help them realise that potential,” Paul reflects.