Bury Traditional Shotokan Karate

Antonio Cadeddu

Early Life and Martial Arts Beginnings

Born in Verbania Pallanza on 04/12/1967, Antonio currently resides in Sudbury, Suffolk, England. His martial arts journey began at a very young age, with his first experience being Tai Chi Chuan (Chen style). After dedicating 8 years to studying and practicing this style, he encountered an Aikido teacher who spoke of Ueshiba Shirai—a master who could effortlessly throw opponents across the tatami with minimal movement. This encounter sparked Antonio's curiosity and led him to transition to Aikido.

Aikido Training

Antonio spent 17 years training in Aikido under Sensei Carta (5th Dan Aikido, 6th Dan Judo, ex-Italian Squad), eventually achieving his 3rd Dan. During this period, he traveled extensively throughout Italy, Switzerland, and Germany, attending courses with various Aikido instructors. The three aspects that most interested him were: 1) Grabbing, 2) Locking, and 3) Throwing techniques.

Shotokan Karate Journey

Parallel to his Aikido studies, Antonio practiced Shotokan Karate, achieving his ranks as follows: 1st Dan (1979), 2nd Dan (1985), 3rd Dan (1993), and 4th Dan (1998). He belonged to FIKTEDA, founded by Master Hiroshi Shirai, whose demonstration of kata techniques and applications left a profound impression. Antonio studied with many renowned Italian masters including Filippo Masi (6-time European Kumite Champion), Sensei Gianni Pera, Carlo Henke, and Sensei Carlo Fugazza.

Move to England and KUGB

After moving to Sudbury, Suffolk, Antonio joined the JKA (Japan Karate Association) for 4 years under Chief Instructor Sensei Y. Ohta. He then joined the KUGB (Karate Union of Great Britain), originally founded by Sensei Enoeda in 1967 and now under Chief Chairman Sensei Andy Sherry (9th Dan). Since joining KUGB, he has completed numerous courses with Sensei Frank Brennan (8th Dan, Chief of KUGB).

Current Credentials

Antonio currently holds the rank of 5th Dan and serves as a KUGB Qualified Instructor and Qualified Assessor, bringing over 40 years of martial arts experience to his teaching.

Head Instructor & Assessor

40+ years Shotokan experience

Comprehensive teaching: Kata, Kumite, Kihon & application

Individual attention for every student

Adam Sharpe

Karate Journey

Adam began his karate journey with Kyokushinkai and then transitioned over to Shotokan, reaching 1st Kyu under Sensei Arnold. Following the closure of that club, he took a break to focus on family and work commitments.

Return to Training

He restarted his training under Sensei Antonio Cadeddu, achieving 1st Dan in February 2022 and 2nd Dan in November 2025.

Personal Life

Outside the Dojo, Adam enjoys spending time with his family, cross-training through running and cycling, listening to music, and continuous self-improvement.

"It's not easy keeping fit and mastering the many katas—it requires commitment and dedication and is always a continuous improvement. However, helping others grow and learn is very rewarding, with excellent opportunities to train with the wider karate community."

Assistant Instructor

Specialises in kata and kumite

15+ Years Experience

William Glover

Early Training

William started mixed martial arts in 2015. Having preferred the karate aspect, he moved to Barrow Shotokan Karate Club at age six, a year later. Based on recommendation, he then moved to a karate club in Haverhill, competing in competitions as a kyu grade and enjoying some success.

First Dan Achievement

He achieved his 1st Dan in 2019 under Joe Anderson, head of Toyakwai Karate Association.

KUGB Journey

In 2022, William joined Sensei Antonio Cadeddu's Shotokan Karate Club, the Bury St. Edmund's branch of KUGB (Karate Union of Great Britain), and sat his Young Leader Bronze Level in December of that year.

Second Dan Achievement

In February 2023, he achieved his 2nd Dan Black Belt under Sensei Frank Brennan and Sensei Billy Higgins. William continues to train under the skilful guidance of Sensei Antonio and hopes to continue improving in the future.

Junior Assistant Instructor

Children's class specialist

3+ Years Experience