Justin Taplin started karate in early 1997 after being mugged on a train. After looking around at a few different clubs, one lesson got him hooked. Since joining the club he has tried various different styles whilst studying abroad (Shito Ryu, Muai Thai, Zen Do Kai, Jiu-Jitsu).

"I wanted to train within martial arts for the specific goal of learning to fight and defend myself on the street. I think Goju Ryu, under Sensei Mulholland, realistically aims at achieving this objective. Over the years I have found that learning a martial art has also provided very much more then simple combat training. Incorporating a martial art into my life has been an incredibly positive thing. It has taught me a lot about myself. I would recommend anyone to challenge themselves with a martial art."