Shihan Marc Mathews – Leading Karate & Martial Arts Instructor in Newcastle & Lake Macquarie
If you're looking for expert karate instruction in Newcastle or Lake Macquarie, you’re in great hands with Shihan Marc Mathews. With over 37 years of experience in martial arts, Marc holds black belts in four styles and continues to train and teach students of all ages and skill levels across the Hunter region.
Marc holds a:
1st Degree Black Belt in Shorinjiryu Karate (traditional Okinawan style)
1st Degree Black Belt in Koshiki Karate (sport-based karate)
1st Degree Black Belt in Aiki Kenpo Jujutsu
4th Degree Black Belt in Koryu Uchinadi Kenpo Jutsu (practical self-defence)
5th Degree Black Belt in IGK under Tino Ceberano. ( The father of Australian Karate)
In addition to his karate background, Marc is a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, training under Anthony Perosh, UFC veteran and 2018 BJJ World Masters Champion. He also holds a 3rd Kyu in Kudo, a Japanese mixed martial art that blends striking and grappling techniques.
Marc has competed at both state and national levels in sport karate, giving him firsthand knowledge of competition strategy and fight preparation. He’s also worked as a security guard and nightclub doorman, which has shaped his approach to teaching real-world self-defence skills—something highly valued by his adult students and parents of younger students alike.
As a highly experienced instructor, Marc has delivered large-scale self-defence programs in Newcastle and Sydney, teaching groups of up to 100 participants. He’s run martial arts classes at some of Sydney’s top private schools, including The Scots College, Newington Prep, and Marist Brothers, and now brings that same high standard of teaching to the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie area.
Whether you’re after kids karate classes, adult self-defence, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Newcastle, or just want to get fit and build confidence through martial arts, Shihan Marc brings a wealth of knowledge, passion and real-world experience to every class.
My husband and I had been looking around for a karate class for our son & when we walked into Newcastle Karate not only were we impressed by the size of this venue but we were greeted by Marc with a friendly smile & a lot of great information about his classes & his team We didn't feel any pressure to sign up but by the end of the class & the smile on our son's face we knew this was the place for him , he has just received his next belt & is feeling very special so thank you to Marc & his team for giving Jett just what he needed, I constantly tell all my friends about how good this place is.
Katie C.
Very professional Dojo, Sensei Marc will bring the best out of you resulting in the best you can be, not just in the Dojo. Experience a new direction, respect, courage, friendship and have fun.
Grahame
A very professional and excellently run dojo. From the first class Sensei’s to the large mat area, gym and outstanding facilities. Members are very friendly with a great community feel. My son & I highly recommend it for all ages.
Martin
After training for eleven years in a traditional karate school coming to Newcastle Karate has been a refreshing change. With greater variety in techniques and training format it has enabled me to continue training into my fifties. Newcastle Karate also provides an inclusive, welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of age or ability. Great team, great atmosphere.
Shayne L
My son Isaac began the Kids BJJ classes at the start of the year. He is a shy kid and I still remember the way there for his first lesson he said "Dad what if the kids don't like me". As soon as he got there the kids and coaches made him feel comfortable straight away. Isaac plays other sports but he now tells me he would pick bjj over all of them. I would say his behaviour has also improved since he began his classes. He loves it. Not long after I decided to give the Adults BJJ a go and at 41 years I am really enjoying the challenge. It is very family friendly and I cant recommend enough!
Geoff
Fantastic instructors, very knowledgeable.
Helping to fill in the gaps in my own karate journey
Mal
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