Meet Our Skilled Taekwon-Do Instructors
Our team of highly experienced and fully qualified instructors are dedicated to providing the highest quality of traditional martial arts training. All of our instructors are fully insured and DBS checked, giving you peace of mind knowing you are in safe hands.
We are registered with the United Kingdom Taekwon-Do Association and International Taekwon-Do Federation, as well as the British Taekwon-Do Council, which is recognized by the UK Sports Council as the governing body for Taekwon-Do.
Our instructors bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to our classes, ensuring that each student receives personalized attention and guidance. Get to know our team and their qualifications, and discover the passion they bring to teaching the art of Taekwon-Do.
Master Dean Matthews
VII Degree, Master, Founder of SWAT Taekwon-DoMaster Dean Matthews is the founder of SWAT Taekwon-Do and has over 40 years none stop Taekwon-Do training and over 30 years of teaching experience. He is a highly accomplished martial artist with a successful Taekwon-Do career. Master Matthews has been the Welsh national squad coach for over a decade, and is one of the most respected martial arts coach and instructors in the world of Taekwon-Do. Master Matthews has taught thousands of students over the years, and has trained many to achieve their Black Belt and many to become International and National Champions.
With a remarkable record in competitions, Master Matthews has won over 400 medals and trophies, including 40+ World and European championship medals, Welsh, English, Scottish, and British overall winners, US open world champion, BTC overall champion, WTF UK champion, and 2x freestyle grand prix winner.
Master Matthews brings his extensive knowledge, expertise, and passion for Taekwon-Do to his classes, inspiring and motivating students to achieve their best. His dedication to excellence and commitment to teaching make him a highly respected and sought-after instructor in the martial arts community.
Mrs Clare Mathhews
VI Degree, International InstructorMrs. Claire Matthews is a founder of SWAT Taekwon-Do and brings a wealth of experience to her teaching. With over 30 years experience martial arts and teaching, Mrs. Matthews is a highly skilled martial artist and a successful Welsh squad team member.
Having competed in multinational championships and European championships, Mrs. Matthews has earned numerous medals in her Taekwon-Do career. Her achievements include winning Gold at the European Taekwon-Do Championship and Silver at the World Taekwon-Do Championship. Mrs. Matthews was also the overall champion at the European Taekwon-Do Championship in 2017.
As an instructor, Mrs. Matthews is dedicated to sharing her passion for Taekwon-Do and helping students reach their full potential. Her expertise, skill, and competitive success make her a respected and inspiring figure in the martial arts community, and a valuable asset to the SWAT Taekwon-Do team.
Mr Richard Taylor
IV Degree, InstructorMr. Richard Taylor is a highly experienced instructor with over 20 years of martial arts experience. He serves as an assistant coach to the Welsh squad team, where he trains talented competitors and competes in competitions around the world.
Mr. Taylor’s accomplishments include being a European multinational champion and sparring champion. His expertise in sparring techniques and strategies make him a valuable asset to SWAT Taekwon-Do. As an instructor, Mr. Taylor is known for his dedication, skill, and ability to inspire students to push their limits and achieve their goals. Students under his tutelage can expect to receive top-notch instruction and guidance to excel in their Taekwon-Do journey.
Mrs Emma Taylor
III Degree, Assistant InstructorMrs. Emma Taylor is a highly skilled Assistant Instructor with over 21 years of experience in Taekwon-Do. She is a multinational champion, having achieved several medals in the numerous events she has attended.
Mrs. Taylor’s dedication to martial arts and her exceptional skills make her a valuable asset to SWAT Taekwon-Do. As an Assistant Instructor, she brings her extensive experience and expertise to help students develop their techniques, improve their skills, and achieve their goals. Mrs. Taylor’s passion for Taekwon-Do and her commitment to teaching make her a respected and trusted member of the instructor team. Students under her guidance can expect to receive patient, knowledgeable, and motivating instruction to help them progress in their martial arts journey.
Mr Ethan Matthews
III Degree, Assistant InstructorMr. Ethan Matthews is a highly accomplished Instructor with over 18 years of training experience in Taekwon-Do. He has achieved numerous accolades in his Taekwon-Do career, including being a Pan Am Gold Medalist and a multiple UK and national champion.
Mr. Matthews’ competitive spirit and dedication to martial arts make him an excellent role model for students at SWAT Taekwon-Do. As an Instructor, he brings his wealth of experience and skills to help students excel in their training, develop their techniques, and achieve their goals. Mr. Matthews is known for his dynamic and engaging teaching style, and his ability to inspire and motivate students to push their limits and reach their full potential. Students under his guidance can expect to receive top-notch instruction and personalised guidance to enhance their skills and progress in their martial arts journey.