Scott Langley first started jujutsu at the age of five. After a move to North Yorkshire, he started karate. During that time, he found an interview with Frank Brennan relating his decision to become a full-time karate instructor. In reading that interview, Langley knew that was what he wanted to do and set himself on a path that took him to Japan, forming his Hombu Dojo Karate International, and publishing four books on various karate topics. Today, Langley took some time during a seminar in Florida [February 2024] to talk about the road he traveled while training and teaching karate. All images provided by Scott Langley. This interview is the first part of a two-part interview. Read part two here.
Martial Arts of Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow: Welcome Langley Sensei! We look forward to discussing your time in karate!
Scott Langley: Thank you for having me here.
MAYTT: Could you begin with what karate was like in the United Kingdom as you were coming up through the ranks? Who were some of the main pillars of karate during that time?
SL: I began my martial arts journey in 1977, when I was just five years old, starting with jujutsu. Born and raised in Liverpool, I found myself immersed in a city where karate held immense popularity. However, my early years were shaped by jujutsu training. Eventually, around 1982, my family relocated to the Northeast of England, specifically North Yorkshire, where I transitioned to studying karate.
In North Yorkshire, I became part of an organization led by Kato Sadashige Sensei, a Japanese instructor. The karate scene in Britain at that time was heavily influenced by Japanese masters. Notable figures like Shiro Asano Sensei and Hirokazu Kanazawa Sensei had made significant impacts since their arrival in the mid-1960s. Alongside Kato Sensei, they were the influential Japanese instructors all based in England.
Interestingly, Japanese instructors were primarily concentrated in England; there were none based in other parts of the United Kingdom or even in Ireland. This concentration created a distinct landscape within the British martial arts community during that era.
Amidst these Japanese masters, there were also renowned British instructors who made significant contributions. Figures like Andy Sherry, Bob Poynton, Terry O’Neill, and Frank Brennan were widely respected within the karate community. Their presence added depth and diversity to the training environment, enriching the experiences of students like myself.
MAYTT: That is a lot of instructors in a small area. Why do you think there was a high concentration of Japanese instructors in a geographically small country?
SL: If we take a look at the United States, for instance, there were notable figures like Teruyuki Okazaki Sensei on the East Coast and Hidetaka Nishiyama Sensei on the West Coast, along with various instructors spread across the country. Despite the vastness of the nation, it remained a unified entity.
However, when we compare it to Europe, the dynamics shift. While Europe might be comparable in size and population to the US, it’s made up of numerous distinct countries. In each of these countries, you had Japanese instructors establishing themselves. From France and Germany to Spain, each nation seemed to have its own instructor.
This brings us back to the question of why the UK seemed to have such a concentration of Japanese instructors. One plausible explanation could be the historical significance of martial arts in England, particularly in London. The Budokwai, established in London in the late 1800s, stands as the oldest dojo in Europe. Initially focused on jujitsu before transitioning to judo and eventually incorporating karate, it exemplifies the long-standing martial arts tradition in the region.
Perhaps the prevalence of English as a widely spoken language played a role, making the UK an attractive destination for Japanese instructors. However, these are just conjectures, and the definitive answer still eludes us. It’s a complex puzzle with various factors at play.
Absolutely, the sheer number of people training played a significant role in shaping the martial arts landscape in the UK during that era. While it’s all before my time, anecdotes from my instructor shed light on the high demand for training spaces. In those days, there existed waiting lists for dojos, with eager students lining up for a chance to join. As soon as one person dropped out, the next person on the waiting list would take their place, ensuring that every dojo remained packed to capacity.
This surge in interest and demand likely prompted the intervention of higher authorities. My instructor, Kato Sensei, a distinguished karateka and graduate of Takushuku University, found himself swept into the fray. Despite not actively teaching karate at the time, his expertise and background caught the attention of those seeking assistance. Consequently, he was dispatched to Germany, where he resided due to his employment with an import-export company.
It was during his time in Germany that Kato Sensei’s connection with Asano Sensei and Hirokazu Kanazawa Sensei came into play. Kanazawa Sensei, recognizing Kato Sensei’s proficiency, advocated for his involvement in teaching karate in England. This led to Kato Sensei embarking on a remarkable fifty-year teaching career in England, assisting Keinosuke Enoeda Sensei in London.
The influx of practitioners and the necessity for skilled instructors likely contributed significantly to Kato Sensei’s recruitment and subsequent lifelong dedication to teaching karate in the UK. In essence, the abundant pool of aspiring martial artists created a demand that necessitated the arrival and long-term commitment of instructors like Kato Sensei.
MAYTT: Wow. The image of having so many people at the dojo and having a waiting list is almost unheard of today. How has the karate population sustained itself in the UK and Ireland?
SL: Indeed, the ebb and flow of martial arts popularity seem to coincide with cultural phenomena and societal trends. Reflecting on the experiences of my close friend Simon Bligh, who is a martial arts instructor in the UK, and comparing them to my own, it’s evident how different waves of pop culture have influenced the uptake of martial arts.
Simon’s journey began during the Bruce Lee craze, whereas I found my inspiration during the era of the original Karate Kid. Now, with the resurgence of interest sparked by the Kobra Kai phenomenon, it’s clear that martial arts have a cyclical presence in pop culture, drawing in new generations of enthusiasts. The Ninja Turtle phase and similar trends have also played a role in this ongoing cycle.
Despite these peaks and troughs, there seems to be a constant, underlying interest in martial arts. This enduring appeal likely stems from various factors, including the allure of discipline, perseverance, and self-improvement that martial arts embody.
Interestingly, significant growth in martial arts participation occurred after the financial crash of 2007-2008. This period of economic uncertainty prompted many individuals to seek avenues for regaining control over their lives. Martial arts, with its emphasis on self-discipline and personal development, offered a means of empowerment during challenging times.
Drawing from an anthropological perspective, one can observe trends in fashion paralleling these societal shifts. During prosperous times, men’s hairstyles tend to lengthen, while women’s skirts shorten, reflecting a more carefree attitude. Conversely, in austere periods, men’s hairstyles shorten, and women’s skirts lengthen, symbolizing a more conservative outlook.
Ultimately, martial arts serve as a vehicle for individuals to assert control over their physical and mental well-being, especially when external circumstances feel uncertain. This enduring appeal ensures that martial arts maintain a steady level of popularity, regardless of the prevailing cultural trends.
MAYTT: It is great that you experienced consistent enrollment. What influenced you to become a full-time martial arts instructor?
SL: It’s fascinating how sometimes the initial allure of martial arts can lead to unexpected career paths. I remember reading an article in Fighting Arts International as a youngster, profiling Frank Brennan, a renowned figure in the UK martial arts scene. What struck me was his unconventional career trajectory – he had never held a “real job” and had transitioned seamlessly into teaching karate full-time after a brief stint at a supermarket. Brennan’s story planted a seed in my mind: how could I also pursue a career in martial arts without succumbing to the traditional nine-to-five grind?
The answer, I discovered, lay in dedication and hard work. Inspired by his example, I entertained the idea of elevating myself above other instructors by seeking training in Japan. The notion was simple: a year in Japan could set me apart as a regional standout, recognized for my superior skills honed in the birthplace of karate.
Yet, beneath this surface ambition lay a deeper aspiration. Secretly, I harbored dreams of undertaking the instructor’s course in Japan, viewing it as a potential springboard to national-level recognition. And so, when the opportunity presented itself, I seized it, driven by a blend of ambition and desire to escape the confines of conventional employment.
Little did I anticipate the extent to which my dedication would shape my future. Today, I find myself teaching karate internationally, jetting off to different countries almost every weekend to share my knowledge and passion. From Finland to the Netherlands, and now Florida, my career has transcended geographical boundaries, fueled by the same drive to avoid the “real job” grind that initially spurred my journey.
In hindsight, I realize that the path to avoiding traditional employment wasn’t about evading hard work altogether; rather, karate has always been my raison d’etre. In order for me not to work for a living, I would have to work really hard.
The deeper answer is that there was something inside of me that said, “That’s what you’re going to do, and you find a way to do it.” That led me to Japan and everything else.
MAYTT: Amazing. In what has teaching full-time aligned with your expectations and in what ways has it not?
SL: For me, martial arts isn’t just a job – it’s a love affair with training, with pushing my body to its limits, and delving deeper into the art to become a better practitioner and teacher. That’s all I ever wanted – to immerse myself in the world of karate and share that passion with others.
But along the way, something unexpected happened. I found myself at the helm of an international organization, the Hombu Dojo Karate International (HDKI) overseeing affiliates in thirty countries, with thousands of members and hundreds of dojos worldwide. While part of me relishes the challenge and the opportunity to make a difference on a global scale, there’s another side to it that I didn’t anticipate.
Managing such a vast network comes with its own set of challenges – the administrative tasks, the logistical complexities, the interpersonal dynamics – all of which can be draining and frustrating at times. It’s a side of the job that I never envisioned when I first set out on this journey.
Don’t get me wrong – I wouldn’t trade what I do for anything. The joy of training, the fulfillment of teaching, and the impact I can have on others’ lives make it all worthwhile. But it’s important to acknowledge that even our dreams come with their own set of challenges. And while the negatives may be outweighed by the positives, they’re still a part of the journey that I didn’t expect to encounter.
MAYTT: If you would go back in time, would you still become a full-time martial arts instructor and everything that comes along with it?
SL: During my time at university, I pursued qualifications as a high school teacher. However, the thought of teaching geography in a traditional high school setting in England left me feeling uninspired. While I acknowledge that I would have adapted if that had been my path, it’s important to recognize that our perspective is shaped by our current circumstances, not hypothetical alternatives. Despite this, I’m grateful for the journey that led me to where I am today.
I’ve dedicated myself to forging a fulfilling career in martial arts, and it’s been a labor of love. Every challenge and setback along the way has contributed to my growth and development. Despite encountering political turmoil, a common experience for many in this field, I wouldn’t change a thing. In fact, these trials have only enriched my experience and helped me evolve as both a martial artist and a person.
Navigating the complexities of the martial arts world has required resilience and perseverance. Yet, through it all, I’ve remained committed to pursuing my passion wholeheartedly. It’s through overcoming obstacles and embracing every aspect of my journey that I’ve reached a point of genuine contentment and fulfillment. Each step has been integral to shaping the person I am today, and for that, I’m truly grateful.
MAYTT: Earlier, you brought up your HDKI. In the spring of 2017, you created a worldwide community for karate. What were some of the influences that encouraged your decision to create your own organization?
SL: Experiencing expulsion from the organization I once belonged to was a pivotal moment for me. Accused of professional misconduct and faced with an unexpected turn of events, I found myself thrust into a situation I never imagined: leading my own group. In a world already saturated with organizations, the prospect of starting another seemed daunting. However, necessity forced me to pragmatically adapt and chart a new course.
Reflecting on the influences that shaped my approach, I became acutely aware of a recurring pattern among those who left to form new groups. Often, they would replicate the organization they had departed from, leading to a cycle of instability and eventual demise. Determined to break this cycle, I prioritized sustainability as the foundation of my endeavor.
With every decision, I asked myself: How sustainable is this? Will it contribute to long-term growth and stability? This focus on sustainability has guided our actions over the past six, nearly seven years. As a result, our growth has been steady and sustainable, attracting individuals who are genuinely invested in our community and committed to working together towards shared goals.
Rather than dictating directives, we foster an environment where collaboration and mutual respect thrive. This approach has set us apart from other organizations and reinforced our commitment to sustainable growth and lasting impact within the martial arts community.
MAYTT: Compared to your general Japanese martial arts organization, you are describing more of an organization where everyone is on an equal playing field, speak with each other, and collaborate?
SL: The hierarchical structure deeply ingrained in Japanese culture presents a unique challenge when it comes to organizational dynamics. From language to institutions, this hierarchy permeates every aspect of society, making it challenging to envision alternative approaches. Japan’s historically isolated nature further reinforces this ethnocentric worldview, limiting exposure to outside influences and alternative perspectives.
In many Japanese organizations, even those disconnected from Japan itself, there’s a tendency to adopt the traditional hierarchical model. However, I was determined to explore a different path. I believed there had to be an alternative approach, one that prioritized meritocracy over strict hierarchy.
Our organization operates as a meritocracy, where individuals are recognized and rewarded based on their genuine skills and contributions, rather than superficial factors like high kicks or competition wins. While it’s not a democracy where every opinion holds equal weight, it’s a system that values talent and expertise, creating a level playing field for all members.
In our community, authority is granted by the membership, not seized or demanded by individuals. This approach fosters a sense of empowerment and ownership among members, ensuring that leadership positions are earned and respected rather than imposed from above.
We’ve worked hard to create a community that mirrors the inclusive and collaborative nature of everyday life for most people. Rather than adhering to an outdated model where leaders dictate and followers comply without question, we’ve embraced a more egalitarian approach that encourages participation and values the input of all members. It’s a model that may sound utopian, but in practice, it has proven effective in fostering a cohesive and supportive community dynamic.
MAYTT: This approach has been working for seven years now. Do you members feel that they can better thrive in the HDKI than a typical Japanese-style organization?
SL: Attracting individuals to the HDKI often means reaching those who are seeking an alternative to the traditional karate landscape. Our organization appeals to a specific subset of karateka who are disillusioned with the deeply hierarchical structures prevalent elsewhere. This means that those who join us are already inclined to thrive within our more egalitarian framework.
However, our biggest challenge lies in the fact that many individuals come to us with prior traumas and experiences of abuse. These could range from physical to financial abuse, and it takes time for some to heal and regain trust within our community. We approach this challenge with empathy and understanding, recognizing the need for patience and support as they navigate their journey within our organization.
Additionally, there’s a segment of martial artists who prefer a more directive approach to their training. They seek clear instructions and predefined paths to advancement, often viewing the idea of meritocracy as intimidating or challenging. For them, the idea of constantly proving themselves can feel daunting, leading them to seek comfort in more structured environments where progression feels guaranteed.
While many individuals fully embrace the values and ethos of the HDKI, there are those who may train with us regularly but opt to grade elsewhere. This decision often stems from a desire for certainty and familiarity in the grading process, as opposed to the perceived uncertainty of proving oneself in a merit-based system.
Navigating this diverse spectrum of perspectives and preferences is a constant balancing act for us. While we remain committed to upholding our principles of meritocracy and empowerment, we also recognize the importance of accommodating different needs and comfort levels within our community. Ultimately, our goal is to create an environment where individuals feel supported and empowered to pursue their martial arts journey in a way that aligns with their values and aspirations.
This interview is the first part of a two-part interview. Read part two here.
Martial Arts of Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow 