OUR TEAM
At the Wythenshawe Black Belt Academy, it takes more than great instructors to build a successful martial arts school — it takes a dedicated team. From our experienced Senseis and assistant coaches to the friendly faces who manage our front desk, organise events, and keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes, every member of our team plays a vital role. Together, we create a welcoming, supportive environment where students can thrive — both on and off the mats. Meet the passionate people who bring energy, expertise, and heart to everything we do at WBBA.
Meet The Team
Eddie Bates
Chief instructor and founder of the WBBA.
6TH Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate and Ju-Jitsu.
3rd Degree Black Belt in Kickboxing
Instructor in Muay Thai
Instructor in Kali Eskrima
Blue Belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Blue Belt in Judo
WBBA - FIGHT TEAM HEAD COACH.
Charity chairman and trustee
First Aider
Male Safeguarding Lead.
Mike Bates
4th Degree Black Belt in
Kenpo Karate and Ju-Jitsu
Brown belt in kickboxing
Events committee member
Safeguarding Officer
David Yates
2nd Degree Black Belt in
Kenpo Karate and Ju-Jitsu.
Vicky Sheldon
2nd Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate and Ju-Jitsu
3rd Degree Black in Kickboxing
WBBA - FIGHT TEAM COACH
Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Kaya Lee
2ND Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate and Ju-Jitsu
Brown belt in Kickboxing
Savannah Lee
2nd Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate and Ju-Jitsu.
2nd Degree Black Belt in Kickboxing
Semi contact / K1 Fighter
Blue Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Charity trustee
Safeguarding Officer
Christopher Turner
2ND Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate and Ju-Jitsu.
1st Degree Black Belt in Kickboxing.
WBBA - FIGHT TEAM COACH
Qazim Haider
1st Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate and Ju-Jitsu.
1st Degree Black Belt in Kickboxing.
Cailem Welsby
1st Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate and Ju-Jitsu.
Purple Belt in Kickboxing.
Natalie Lee
Tuck shop supervisor
First aider
Female Safeguarding Lead
Event committee lead.
Paula Pestell
Tuckshop assistant
Chairty trustee
Events committee assistant
Siobhan Price
Tuck shop assistant
Events committee assistant
Louise Mather
Tuck shop assistant
Events committee assistant
Wendy Luck
Tuck shop assistant
Events committee assistant